Does your pet suffer from chronic pain, due to arthritis, hip dysplasia, or another health issue? If so, your furry friend may benefit from laser therapy. This is just one of the many new treatment options available for our animal companions. A Norwalk, CA vet discusses laser therapy, and explains how it can help pets, in this article.
What Is Laser Therapy?
Laser therapy–also known as cold laser therapy or Class IV laser therapy—is a non-invasive treatment that is based on the use of light. This process, officially known as photo-biotherapy, has many benefits. Certain light wavelengths can help ease pain in pets, and can also help soothe sensitive nerves. Laser therapy increases cell health and functions and fuels protein synthesis and cell metabolism. It also stimulates the body’s natural painkillers.
How Is It Used?
In the world of veterinary medicine, laser therapy is generally used to help pets with chronic conditions like arthritis and hip dysplasia. However, those aren’t its only uses. Laser therapy can also help pets with a variety of medical issues, such as wounds; muscle, ligament, and tendon injuries; ear infections; hot spots; and degenerative disc disease. It can also be very beneficial as a post-surgical treatment.
What Are The Benefits?
Laser therapy has some truly wonderful and unique benefits. One of the best things about it is the fact that there are no known side effects. That alone is wonderful, as it can really give people peace of mind when they’re choosing a course of treatment for their beloved pets. Laser therapy is also painless and completely non-invasive. There won’t be a surgical site or stitches for you to worry about. Another key benefit of laser therapy is the fact that it doesn’t take long. Sessions usually last between ten minutes and a half hour. There’s no recovery time needed, though you may want to give your pet a few extra ear scritches and perhaps a yummy treat or a new toy.
Tips
Every pet is different, so laser therapy may not be the best course of action for every case. That said, if you think your dog or cat may benefit from the treatments, ask your vet for more information. It never hurts to learn more!
Do you have questions about laser therapy for pets? Call us anytime! As your Norwalk, CA vet clinic, we’re here to help!
