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Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a surgery-free, drug-free, noninvasive treatment to reduce pain, inflammation, and speed the healing process. Veterinary laser therapy has been scientifically proven to help treat post-surgical pain and many acute and chronic conditions.

Veterinarian petting a dog with tilting head
Veterinarian petting a dog with tilting head

Overview

Laser therapy uses a beam of light to deeply penetrate tissue, absorbing into the cell without damaging it and inducing a response called “photo-bio-modulation,” which helps reduce pain. While treating the affected area, the laser light generates a feeling of gentle and soothing warmth.

Why would my pet need laser therapy?

Blue Cross Animal Hospital is pleased to offer veterinary Therapeutic Laser treatment. This non-invasive treatment can be used to help fight infection, decrease inflammation, speed wound healing and control pain. A hand-piece emitting a laser beam of a specific wavelength is passed over the affected body part for a set number of minutes. The light penetrates to cells helping them to heal. It also stimulates blood supply, helps to call in white blood cells which fight infection and affects nerve fibres that are causing pain. It is not only completely painless, many pets find it pleasurable.

We are using the laser for all post operative cases to decrease pain and speed wound healing. We also recommend it for badly infected ears. By decreasing the pain and swelling we can make applying ear drops less uncomfortable for the pet.

Our best use of the laser is on arthritic pets. Cats and dogs whose activities have become restricted by pain are getting more out of life after laser treatment. We start with six treatments over three weeks then re-assess the progress. After the initial sessions we recommend regular single treatments every two to four weeks depending on how the pet is doing.

Several of our staff members have become certified in using the laser and will be happy to answer your questions.

When should I consider laser therapy for my pet?

Laser therapy can be useful for your pet in a number of ways. The following are common clinical conditions where veterinary laser therapy may be used as treatment.

  • Musculoskeletal pain

  • Immunoregulation

  • Traumatic wound healing

  • Surgical wound healing

  • Increasing the metabolism of specific tissues

How does laser therapy work?

Treatment protocols are unique to each patient and condition, varying in time, complexity, and cost. Laser therapy can also be used to enhance other treatment plans we recommend.

Fortunately, laser therapy can be administered without touching the painful area, providing immediate pain relief and edema control to sensitive tissues. We also use therapeutic lasers to stimulate muscle and acupuncture points painlessly and without needles so your pet is as comfortable as possible. With advanced equipment and progressive methodology, we are committed to providing the best possible laser therapy pet care for your furry friend. Every test, decision, and treatment is customized to the specific needs of your pet so that they can manage their condition or recovery and live out their happy, healthy life.