How Does Cat & Dog Laser Therapy Work?
At SOVH, we use a laser probe to send a concentrated beam of infrared light through the skin’s surface to trigger a variety of cellular reactions, a process called photostimulation.
Here’s what that does:
- Stimulates cells to release natural painkillers
- Activates cells to clean up damage from inflammation
- Suppresses processes that cause damage
- Activates processes that accelerate tissue repair and cell growth
- Increases circulation (and therefore fluid, oxygen, and nutrient delivery)
When is Laser Therapy Recommended?
Where there’s pain, there’s inflammation, and vice versa. Laser therapy addresses both pain and inflammation in dogs and cats, and promotes healing for a wide range of conditions:
- Musculoskeletal issues (arthritis, hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease)
- Soft tissue injuries (sprains, strains)
- Post-surgical pain (spays, neuters, other surgeries)
- Skin problems (hot spots, lick granulomas, infections)
- Dental issues/post-dental procedures (gingivitis, stomatitis, dental extractions)
- Fractures and wounds (cuts, bites, abscesses, abrasions, burns)
- Ear infections
- and more…
How Often Will My Pet
Need Treatment?
How Often Will My Pet Need Treatment?
While a single session can provide some immediate relief, the effects of laser therapy are cumulative with each treatment building on the previous one. Pets with longstanding or severe conditions need several treatments. How many and how often will depend on your pet’s condition and individual response. Your veterinarian will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your pet.
How Will My Pet React to Treatment?
Pets may experience a soothing warmth or mild tingling sensation, but no pain. They invariably relax into it, and some will even fall asleep during therapy. Relief from pain and inflammation is often noticed within hours of treatment depending on the condition being treated and your pet’s individual health status.
Are There Any Side Effects of Treatment?
There are none! Laser therapy is a very safe, time-honoured treatment method used in both human and veterinary medicine that delivers results, not consequences.