At Raintree Veterinary Hospital in Hoquiam we use veterinary laser therapy as a non-invasive option for promoting rapid healing of injuries and incision, and for the treatment of painful inflammatory conditions in cats and dogs.
Cold Laser Therapy for Cats & Dogs
Cold laser therapy for dogs and cats uses a low-intensity laser or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to help relieve pain, stimulate and enhance cell function, and improve healing.
These laser treatments use light waves of a specific wavelength to cause an alteration of cellular and tissue physiology. Light absorbed by the cell's components stimulates electrons and encourages the cells to promote growth, proliferation, migration, and repair.
Different laser beams reach different cells and promote healing in different ways. Lasers with lower wavelengths are absorbed by superficial tissue, such as the skin, whereas beams of higher wavelengths (such as red or near-infrared) penetrate deeper to muscles and bones.
How Laser Treatments Work at Our Hoquiam Vet Hospital
During your pet's treatment session, the veterinary professional will slowly move the laser wand back and forth over your pet's injured or painful area, producing a warm, pleasant sensation that most dogs and cats seem to enjoy and find relaxing.
Cold laser treatment sessions typically last 15 to 30 minutes each. The number of sessions recommended for your pet will depend upon the type and severity of your pet's condition. Most vets recommend that chronic conditions be treated weekly, whereas surgical incisions and open wounds may benefit from daily treatments.
Uses for Cold Laser Therapy
Several conditions have been shown to improve with the use of laser therapy including muscle and joint pain, arthritis symptoms, and muscle spasms.
Laser therapy encourages cell regeneration and increases circulation, benefiting the following conditions and procedures:
- Wounds
- Bone Fractures
- Strains & Sprains
- Degenerative Joint Disease
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Inflammation
- Osteoarthritis
- Lick Granuloma
- Dental Procedures
- Post-Surgical Recovery
Benefits of Cold Laser Therapy
Cold laser treatments for dogs and cats can provide your pet with a number of healing benefits including:
- Increased wound healing
- Endorphin release
- Muscle relaxation
- Accelerated mitochondrial cell metabolism
- Decreased inflammation and associated pain
- Enhanced neovascularization
- Increased blood perfusion
- Reduced swelling
- Faster bone healing
Combining Laser Therapy for Dogs with Other Treatments
Cold laser therapy for dogs in Hoquiam can be used as part of a multimodal treatment plan to help manage pain, reduce inflammation and promote healing. Cold laser therapy does not involve medications which means that this non-invasive treatment can be used in conjunction with medications and supplements without the risk of drug interactions.
Laser therapy for pets can also be used in conjunction with other therapies such as therapeutic massage, acupuncture, or other veterinary rehabilitation treatments such as hydrotherapy.
Whether your dog is being treated for pain using pharmacologic or non-pharmacologic methods, cold laser therapy may offer the relief your pet needs.