Laser therapy has been available in human and veterinary medicine for decades, but only relatively recently have studies explained the mechanisms behind its success. Now, we have more powerful machines and refined therapy protocols to help pets with all types of illnesses or injuries. We know laser therapy works, and our Veterinary Medical Center of Indian River County team wants to share that success with pets and pet owners. 

What is laser therapy for pets?

Laser therapy is an alternative treatment method used to address pain and inflammation and to speed healing in pets with varying medical conditions. A class IV “cold” laser, which produces light energy on a specific wavelength calibrated for pets, is used to provide treatments. These lasers are different from surgical lasers, which use thermal energy to cut through tissue and reduce bleeding. Therapy lasers penetrate deep into injured tissues, creating conditions to encourage healing without any pain or discomfort.

How does laser therapy for pets work?

Light energy from the laser penetrates deep into skin, muscle, joints, or bone, depending on the specific light wavelength and other machine settings. Photons in the light land on receptors inside cells, stimulating them in various ways. Laser therapy can create the following changes in tissue that can lead to reduced pain, reduced inflammation, and faster healing:

  • Increased endorphin production
  • Dampened pain signal transmission
  • Reduced pro-inflammatory chemical signaling
  • Increased circulation and oxygenation
  • Increased lymph drainage
  • Increased pro-healing growth factors
  • Increased collagen production
  • New blood vessel growth
  • Faster cell migration

What can laser therapy treat in pets?

Laser therapy is beneficial for virtually any condition that causes pain or inflammation, including:

  • Allergic skin disease
  • Ear infections
  • Anal gland infections
  • Gum disease
  • Dental extractions
  • Surgical incisions
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Joint or soft tissue injuries
  • Nerve pain
  • Nerve injury
  • Intravertebral disc disease

Is laser therapy safe for pets?

Laser therapy has few risks or side effects for most pets, but it is contraindicated in a few situations. First, pets with known or suspected cancer should not receive laser treatments because inadvertent stimulation with laser energy could result in the cancer spreading. Second, pregnant pets should not receive laser therapy over their bellies to avoid harming their offspring. Otherwise, laser therapy does not cause side effects or interact with other treatments, making it ideal for pets who cannot tolerate traditional treatments, drugs, or anesthesia.

Although the lasers used for cold laser therapy do not produce significant heat amounts, the energy is high-powered and could harm the eye’s retina, so everyone present during the machine’s operation must wear protective goggles. Thermal injury to tissue is also possible if improper techniques or settings are used, which is why only trained individuals should provide laser therapy.

What should I expect during my pet’s laser therapy treatment?

During a laser therapy treatment, your furry pal is allowed to relax comfortably in a position and location of their choosing. You can remain in the room with them and chat with our trained team member to help the treatment time pass more quickly. Treatment for a small area may take only a few minutes, while treatments for large or multiple areas could take up to 20 minutes. Your pet likely will feel a mild warming sensation or nothing at all—the laser probe does not cause pressure or pain. 

Single laser sessions are useful for dental or soft tissue surgical incisions, but most conditions require multiple treatments over several weeks or months, or on an ongoing basis to have the greatest effect. We may start with several sessions per week, then reduce the frequency as your four-legged friend’s condition improves. 

What about at-home laser devices?

At-home laser therapy devices are widely marketed on the internet, but buyer beware—these products may not have the same therapeutic benefits as a professional quality laser. At-home devices are typically much lower powered to pass safety testing and restrictions and reduce the chances of a consumer accidentally injuring themselves or their pet. Professional lasers are researched-backed and proven to work for specific conditions when a customized protocol is created and prescribed by a veterinarian, then implemented by skilled, trained team members.

Laser therapy is a helpful adjunct or stand-alone treatment for chronic conditions, postoperative care, injuries, and more. If your pet has inflammation or pain, they could benefit from laser therapy treatments with our Veterinary Medical Center of Indian River County team. Contact us to schedule a laser therapy consultation and learn how this treatment fits into your pet’s overall health care plan.