Pet Care News & Information
Since the addition of digital radiography to our practice last year, we have another new and exciting technology that will vastly improve the quality of life for our patients; Class IV Laser Light Therapy.
What is laser light therapy?
An FDA approved technology, Class IV Laser Light Therapy is a pain-free, non-invasive, drug free method to treat a variety of pain and inflammatory conditions in pets. Whether your pet is rehabilitating from trauma, surgery or injury, or simply suffering the effects of aging, your companion will benefit from this revolutionary new approach to pain relief.
What conditions can be treated with laser light therapy?
It is most commonly used to relieve chronic pain of aging and arthritic pets. It is also effective on a wide range of other conditions such as back injuries, hip dysplasia, degenerative joint disease, many types of wounds, ear infections, post-operative pain, skin conditions and much more.
How does it work?
Unlike a carbon laser, which we use for cutting in surgical procedures, the Class IV therapy uses deep penetrating laser light. When tissue is exposed to this type of laser light, enzymes within the cells absorb that energy, stimulating them to heal at an accelerated rate. The result for the targeted area is pain and inflammation relief, improved blood flow and increased metabolic activity. In addition, nerve regeneration is stimulated, the immune system response is boosted, and natural endorphins are released into the body.
What are the advantages to laser light therapy?
It is non-invasive, with no side effects, no adverse reactions, no blood tests or anesthesia required. In fact, many patients with chronic conditions are able to scale back the quantity and frequency of steroid and NSAID use with the addition of laser therapy to their current treatment plan.
How many sessions does it take and how long before results are felt?
For minor conditions and wound care, many patients experience pain relief in 24 hours or less, and require only one to two treatments. Chronic conditions such as arthritis are typically treated three times the first week, two times the next week and once a week for the following two weeks. After that, treatments can often be reduced to once a month or once every two months as needed for continued chronic pain relief. Each patient is different, so the doctor customizes each treatment plan based on the medical condition at hand and the pet’s response to the therapy as it progresses.
What does my pet experience during a session?
The laser therapy session is calm and anxiety-free for the patient. Most thoroughly enjoy their ‘laser massage’ and the one-on-one attention with our laser therapist. The actual sensation felt is a pleasant, soothing warmth in the treated area. Some pets become so relaxed, they fall asleep during the session!
How long does a treatment session last?
Depending on the size and number of areas being treated on the body, a session may last anywhere from a mere five minutes to upwards of 60 minutes.
Can I be present during laser treatment?
Absolutely- we would love for you to see this new technology in action! (However, we will provide you with protective eyewear to wear during the treatment session).
How much will it cost?
Basic wound care treatments are as little as $25 a session, deep tissue treatments start at $35 a session for pets < 60lbs. We can more accurately determine cost after the doctor completes a physical exam and prescribes a treatment plan, which is based on your pet’s actual medical condition, the size of your pet, and the size of the area requiring therapy. Most of our clients are pleasantly surprised by the affordability of laser therapy, especially when compared to the long-term costs of NSAIDs, pain medications, frequent blood testing and other supportive care that chronic conditions require.
How do I know if laser therapy is right for my pet?
Laser light therapy is not for every condition or for every pet, however, with seemingly limitless uses, a high percentage of success rate and the ease and comfort of administration, you have nothing to lose by giving your pet the opportunity to experience pain relief in a whole new way!
