The team at Oak Forest Veterinary Hospital is focused on new therapies and advancements that can better support our wonderful pet patients. Many new modalities that can complement traditional medicine are acupuncture, massage, and laser therapy. Pet Laser therapy is an exciting treatment that can enhance recovery after surgery, injury, or chronic conditions.
Because it’s noninvasive, safe for all life stages, and does not require medication, we’re particularly enthusiastic about offering this service at our clinic. However, many owners may not know much about this therapy and its benefits, so we’re pleased to provide an overview of its many advantages!
Pet Laser Therapy: A Complementary Approach to Healing
Laser therapy, also known as Class IV or companion laser, involves the application of concentrated infrared light to an affected area of the body. This light causes changes on a cellular level, resulting in cell regeneration, improved blood circulation, increased lymphatic circulation, inhibition of bacterial growth, and desensitization of nerves, which lessens pain.
What Can I Expect?
Before any treatment begins, your pet will have a thorough assessment and examination to determine their needs and the expected number of sessions required for rehabilitation or management of a disease.
During your pet’s laser session, the only requirement is protective goggles. You’re also welcome to stay with your pet to make the experience more relaxing for them. A technician will apply the laser to the area in question for approximately 3-10 minutes.
Many pets find the warm sensation of the application very soothing. Unlike many other traditional treatments, laser therapy is suitable for senior pets, does not require sedation or other medications, and is entirely noninvasive.
The number of sessions required is specific to each pet, but many owners report improvement within a few sessions.
Conditions Helped by Laser Therapy
- Osteoarthritis
- Wounds that won’t heal
- Post-surgical scars
- Ear infections
- Muscle, tendon, or ligament injuries
- Burns
- Abscesses
- Dental disease
Advantages of Companion Lasers
- Faster wound healing
- Accelerated tissue and cell growth
- Increased blood and lymphatic circulation
- Increased endorphins to reduce pain
- Improved nerve function
- Increased mobility
- Decreased inflammation
If you’d like to learn more about this new and exciting treatment, please contact our team. We’re happy to discuss pet laser therapy and how it can help your pet.
