What is laser therapy? and can it help my pet?

                Laser light therapy has been used in human medicine for several decades. This safe and

affordable modality has gained popularity in veterinary medicine over the last decade.  The laser light

has the ability to send energy deep into tissues and repair the injured or inflamed cells by a process

called photobiomodulation (say that 3 times fast!).  Basically, the laser light speeds up the healing

process by decreasing pain and inflammation as well as increasing circulation.

                Laser therapy can treat a myriad of inflammatory conditions, including arthritis, painful ear

infections, soft tissue injuries, hot spots, anal sac disorders and lick granulomas, just to name a few. 

Slow-healing wounds, surgical incisions and fractures can also benefit from this safe modality. 

One of the few contraindications is that the laser light may not be directed into the eye.  For this reason, everyone in the room must wear protective eye wear during treatment (including Fido!). 

There are no known side effects to laser light therapy.

article written by:

Kathy Anderson, DVM

Companion Animal Hospital of Norridge