Cold laser therapy is a potential supplementary treatment if your dog experiences tissue damage or pain. Our veterinarians in Monterey Park have put together a guide to explain what the treatment entails and what you can anticipate.
What is cold laser therapy for dogs?
Cold laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy or Class IV laser therapy, directs focused light to enhance blood circulation and promote cell regeneration. This therapy doesn't involve invasive procedures or medication.
It effectively manages inflammatory conditions and complements conventional medical approaches for arthritis, soft tissue injuries, and tendon injuries. Moreover, it aids in the healing process of wounds.
Does cold laser therapy work on dogs?
The veterinary industry has absolutely confirmed the safety and effectiveness of laser therapy for pets. Veterinarians can employ it to address various conditions, like tissue injuries (such as strains and sprains) and arthritis.
Many veterinarians combine laser therapy with other treatments to improve the overall results for their animal patients.
Laser therapy offers several advantages, such as:
- Enhance circulation
- Decrease nerve sensitivity
- Reduce pain and swelling
- Speed the healing process
In addition, laser therapy does not have any negative side effects, and no sedation is required. We also do not need to clip or shave the area being treated.
Does laser therapy hurt dogs?
If the veterinarian administering the laser therapy treatment has the necessary skills and experience, your dog should not experience any pain.
In our experience, when a vet uses a handheld laser wand to treat injured tissue, it typically provides a soothing and relaxing sensation that most pets find enjoyable.
During the session, it's important for both the veterinary staff and patients to wear protective goggles to prevent potential harm to human and canine retinas from the laser beams.
How often should my dog get cold laser therapy?
The benefits of cold laser therapy increase with time and frequency of treatments. To achieve optimal results, following your veterinarian's recommended treatment schedule is important.
How long does a cold laser therapy treatment for a dog last?
Laser therapy sessions may vary in duration depending on the body part being treated and the amount of laser energy administered. Typically, a session lasts between 5 to 20 minutes.
Before starting the therapy, we will perform a thorough physical examination and, if needed, take X-rays to determine if cold laser therapy is suitable 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.