Cold laser therapy, also known as Class IV pet laser therapy or low level light therapy is a therapeutic modality available to both humans and pets. At our veterinary clinic in Johnson City, our vet staff offers cold laser therapy to dogs and cats dealing with a variety of conditions.
Our Johnson City Veterinarian Explains Pet Laser Therapy
Here’s how cold laser therapy works:
A laser beam using low frequency, long wave length light rays is emitted from a wand-like device and directed at the desired tissue or target area on your pet’s body.- Once it’s penetrated the pet’s body, the laser beam interacts with the physiological tissues and imparts healing effects including increased cellular metabolism, improved cellular repair and regrowth, decreased pain, and increased circulation.
- This laser beam feels completely painless—many animals become deeply relaxed or fall asleep during a session, which typically lasts about 10-30 minutes.
- Beneficial effects of cold laser therapy can be seen even after one session, although multiple sessions will generally enhance the effects over time.
When To Get Cold Laser Therapy
Not sure how to tell if your pet is in pain? Be sure to look for the following signs, as these could indicate an underlying painful issue which may benefit from cold laser therapy:
- Shaking, trembling, and difficulty walking or rising from the ground
- Increased vocalization
- Limping or holding up a paw
- Decreased interest in exercise
- Decreased self-grooming
- Decreased appetite
- Frequent biting or licking at a painful area
- Restlessness
Benefits of Pet Laser Therapy for Your Cat or Dog
Since cold laser therapy works on a general physiological effect known as “photobiomodulation,” its potential benefits are far-reaching. We can use cold laser therapy to help your dog or cat recover from conditions such as:
- Post-surgical pain and incision healing
- Orthopedic injuries, including arthritis, hip dysplasia, joint pain, and back pain
- Soft-tissue injuries, such as muscle strains and ACL ruptures
- Ear infections
- Hot spots, poorly healing wounds, and other skin conditions
- Gingivitis
When provided as an adjunct therapy in addition to other healing services like behavioral therapy and nutritional recommendations, our pet patients can experience a drastic improvement in their health in the face of a wide variety of conditions and ailments.
The team at Pinecrest Veterinary Clinic offers cold laser therapy to animals from the community of Johnson City, Elizabethton, and surrounding Tennessee communities. If you’re curious about the difference that this and other services can make for your pet’s health and well-being, then contact us today by calling 423-926-6091.
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