Cold laser therapy is a pain-free and non-invasive treatment option for dogs that is growing in popularity. Today, our Cave Creek vets discuss cold laser therapy for dogs, and the medical conditions it can treat.
Cold Laser Therapy for Dogs
Have you heard of cold laser therapy but aren't exactly sure what it is? Our Cave Creek veterinary team is here to fill you in.
Laser therapy is a non-invasive technique using low-level or Class IV laser therapy to increase blood circulation and promote cell regeneration. This drug-free approach is often used to treat inflammatory conditions, and is safe to use in tandem with traditional medical treatments for conditions like soft tissue or tendon injuries and arthritis. It has also been proven to expedite the healing process.
How Does Cold Laser Treatment for Dogs Help Them
The veterinary industry has confirmed laser therapy as a safe and effective treatment. It can effectively address various diseases, injuries, and conditions like tissue injuries (such as strains and sprains) and arthritis.
Cold lasers are commonly used for dogs alongside other treatments to give them the best possible outcome as they recover.
Some of the advantages that cold laser therapy can offer your dog include:
- Enhance circulation
- Allowing the muscles to relax
- Decrease nerve sensitivity
- Vasodilation can increase blood flow
- Reduce pain and swelling
- The release of endorphins
- Speed the healing process
Laser therapy does not have any negative side effects and your dog does not need to be sedated. You also don't need to worry about your pet missing any fur as cold laser therapy doesn't require the removal of fur to complete treatment properly.
Medical Issues That Cold Laser Therapy Can Help Treat
Conditions that cold laser therapy is commonly used to help treat include:
- Chronic arthritis
- Surgical incisions
- Tendon and ligament injuries
- Traumatic injuries
If your dog is unable to undergo traditional methods of treatment, veterinary cold laser therapy may be the solution. Consider laser therapy if:
- Your dog suffers from liver disease leaving them unable to take commonly used medications
- Your dog is only able to use specific pain management medications
- Your dog is unable to have medications administered traditionally
- You have a senior dog who is unable to be medicated due to decreased organ function
Are there any risks associated with laser therapy?
Cold laser therapy is an extremely safe and pain-free treatment option. Your dog won't feel anything aside from the wand brushing over their fur, which may even be soothing to them.
However, the laser beams can cause permanent damage to the retina of a dog or human if directed into the eye. This is easily avoided as all staff members in the room, as well as your dog, will wear protective goggles throughout the session.
How long will the appointment be?
The duration of the laser therapy sessions differs depending on the section that is being treated and the amount of energy that is delivered through the laser. Usually, a laser therapy session lasts between five to 20 minutes.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets, and Animal Health Services of Cave Creek does not provide cold laser treatment. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.