Cold laser therapy for dogs is a drug-free way to help reduce inflammation and swelling, relieve pain, and speed healing. Today, our Augusta vets explain more about the benefits of this non-invasive treatment.
What is cold laser therapy?
Cold laser therapy (also referred to as low-level laser therapy or Class IV laser therapy) uses focused light to increase blood circulation and stimulate the regeneration of cells.
What does cold laser therapy for dogs treat?
For many dogs, this non-invasive, drug-free therapy can be an effective way to treat a variety of painful inflammatory conditions. Many veterinarians recommend the use of cold laser therapy as a supplementary treatment in combination with traditional medical treatments.
Cold laser therapy for dogs can be used to treat diseases, soft tissue or tendon injuries and arthritis. It can also be used to encourage wound healing after an injury or surgery.
What are the benefits of cold laser therapy for dogs?
Does cold laser therapy actually work to help dogs feel better? Our vets believe that the answer is yes! Evidence suggests that these treatments can be very effective for pets. The veterinary industry has deemed pet laser therapy both safe and effective.
We often use this gentle therapy to supplement other treatment options in order to give our pet patients improved outcomes.
Some ways that cold therapy is believed to help improve dog health are:
- Enhance circulation
- Decrease nerve sensitivity
- Reduce pain and swelling
- Speed the healing process
Laser therapy does not have any known negative side effects, can be used in conjunction with any medications your dog may be on, and no sedation is required. We also do not need to clip or shave the area being treated.
Are cold laser treatments painful for dogs?
Provided the veterinarian performing the treatment is well-trained and experienced in administering laser therapy and the treatment is performed correctly, there should be no pain involved for your dog.
In fact, when the vet waves a handheld laser wand back and forth over injured tissue, this seems to produce a pleasant sensation that most pets seem to find soothing or relaxing.
During a cold laser session, all veterinary staff and patients must wear protective goggles, as laser beams directed at an eye are capable of causing permanent damage to both human and canine retinas.
How often should my dog have cold laser therapy?
Over time, the effects of cold laser therapy are cumulative. For best results, treatments should be completed at the frequency recommended by your veterinarian.
Based on the injury or condition being treated your vet may recommend sessions a few times a week, once a week, or once every couple of weeks. Often treatment begins with several times a week and gradually reduces in frequency.
How long does each cold laser treatment take?
The length of sessions varies depending on the area being treated and how much energy is being delivered through the laser. A typical laser therapy session lasts between 5 and 20 minutes.
Before treatment, we will perform a full physical exam, in addition to x-rays if required, to determine whether cold laser therapy is the right treatment option for your pet.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.