Veterinary medicine has seen significant advancements, including the increasing use of laser therapy for pets. Laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or cold laser therapy, is a non-invasive treatment that uses light wavelengths to penetrate tissues and promote healing. Laser therapy offers a myriad of benefits for pets suffering from chronic pain and various health conditions, expedites recovery from injuries and surgeries, and enhances quality of life. Our Creature Comforts Veterinary Service team explains the benefits of laser therapy for pets. 

Pain and inflammation in pets

One of laser therapy’s most obvious benefits is its ability to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. The therapy decreases inflammatory compound production and stimulates the release of endorphins (i.e., the body’s natural painkillers) by activating cells and increasing blood flow to the affected areas. Laser therapy is, therefore, an excellent treatment option for pets with chronic pain from arthritis and joint disorders, and following surgery.

Accelerated healing in pets

Laser therapy significantly boosts the healing process. The laser’s light energy deeply penetrates tissues, which promotes cellular regeneration and repair, so particularly benefits pets recovering from surgeries or injuries by reducing healing time. Laser therapy also enhances collagen production for faster repair of damaged tissues, tendons, and ligaments.

Improved mobility for pets

Laser therapy improves mobility for cats and dogs with chronic conditions such as arthritis or degenerative joint disease. This offers a better quality of life, because your pet can move about and play freely with less or no pain, improving not only their physical health but also their mental health and happiness.

Better blood circulation in pets

Laser therapy activates blood circulation, which ensures that oxygen and essential nutrients are delivered efficiently to the damaged tissues, facilitating faster healing and recovery. Improved circulation is particularly beneficial for senior pets or those with circulatory issues.

Laser therapy for pets is non-invasive

One of laser therapy’s most appealing aspects for pet owners is its non-invasiveness and safety. Unlike surgical interventions or medications that can have significant side effects, laser therapy is painless, stress-free, and can often be performed quickly. This means the therapy is convenient for pet owners. For most pets, the laser sessions are soothing, relaxing, and less stressful. 

Laser therapy for pets is versatile

Laser therapy is highly versatile and can treat a wide range of conditions, from acute injuries, such as sprains and strains, to chronic conditions, including hip dysplasia and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), as well as skin conditions, wounds, and infections. Because laser therapy is so valuable for so many conditions, our Creature Comforts Veterinary Service team considers the treatment an extremely important tool in our alternative medicine array.

Can laser therapy help your pet?

If you are considering laser therapy for your furry pal, first consult with our team about their current physical and mental condition. We will likely recommend laser therapy for the following common conditions:

  • Chronic pain
  • Post-surgical healing
  • Tendon and ligament injuries
  • Traumatic injuries or wounds
  • Spinal disc disease
  • Anal gland inflammation and infection
  • Gingivitis and stomatitis
  • Ear hematoma or infection

However, laser therapy is not an option for all pets. Not all pets can sit still while our veterinarian administers treatment. Additionally, laser therapy may be contraindicated for pregnant pets or those with malignant tumors, eye conditions, and systemic infections. During your pet’s exam, we can assess whether laser therapy would be suitable for your pet as a primary treatment or as an adjunct to other therapies, such as surgery or medication.

Laser therapy is a valuable addition to modern veterinary medicine by providing pain relief, reducing inflammation, accelerating healing, improving mobility, and enhancing circulation, thus significantly improving quality of life. As alternative therapies continue to advance, more pets will benefit from their many advantages and enjoy happier, healthier lives.

If you would like to learn whether laser therapy could help your four-legged friend, schedule an appointment with our Creature Comforts Veterinary Service team. We are proud to offer this service that can help so many pets.