Did you know that laser therapy is one of today’s most successful and flexible veterinary treatments? This cutting-edge treatment has been around for several decades and has made thousands, if not millions, of pets feel better. This article features a local Severn, MD vet discussing laser therapy for pets.
What Are The Origins Of Laser Therapy?
Cold laser therapy can be traced back to technology that was first explored by Albert Einstein in 1916. He invented the phrase Light Amplification via Stimulated Emission of Radiation, or LASER. Professor Andre Mester pioneered the use of low-power lasers in medicine in 1967, making the concept real.
The cornerstone of laser therapy is right in the name: Light Amplification. Light waves have a tangible effect on the body’s cells and can cause certain biological changes. This process is known as photobiomodulation. Cold laser therapy, also known as low level laser or Class IV laser therapy, stimulates cells by using electromagnetic radiation from the infrared light spectrum.
Laser units can generate three types of light beams: monochromatic, or single wavelength, coherent, or electromagnetic radiation, and collimated, which emits photons in a single beam of light. The latter two types, coherent and collimated, can concentrate on highly particular topics. This is where the term “laser focus” originated!
There are four types of lasers, which are classified. Class 1 is the most vulnerable. These are the sorts of barcode scanners that you see in many establishments today. On the other end of the spectrum, we have the most powerful laser, the Class 4. These are capable of cutting through materials.
Class 3 is the type most commonly utilized in therapy. This therapy can alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, improve nerve function, and speed up the healing process. It also enhances and/or restores metabolic function and promotes good cell health, function, and metabolism.
Laser therapy is being utilized to treat a range of conditions in pets. There’s a reason why it’s so popular!
What Conditions Can Laser Therapy Treat in Pets?
In the field of veterinary medicine, lasers are most commonly used to cure arthritis, notably in dogs. However, they are also used to assist pets with a number of ailments. Some of these include soft tissue injuries, traumatic injuries, wound healing, musculoskeletal injury/pain, degenerative disk disease, ear infections, neurological diseases, inflammation, joint pain, neuropathic pain, tendon and ligament issues, muscle atrophy, dermatitis, hot spots, lick granuloma, arthritis, wounds, and ear problems. Ask your Severn, MD veterinarian for more information.
What Are The Advantages Of Cold Laser Therapy?
When choosing any treatment for your beloved pet, you should assess the benefits and drawbacks. There are significantly more of the former in this scenario!
Here are a few of the major advantages:
Laser Therapy Is Quite Safe
Many drugs and therapies come with the possibility of side effects. Another reason we are happy to provide cold laser therapy is that there are no known negative effects. That alone is a compelling reason for employing cold laser therapy.
Laser Therapy Sessions Are Fast
Cold laser therapy sessions require very little time. The average session will last 10 to 30 minutes. Even folks who are extremely busy can easily fit this into their calendar.
No Recovery Time
As previously noted, cold laser therapy treatments are rapid and painless. Fido and Fluffy require no special attention, only a snack and a few scritches. (Your pet will most likely appreciate a new toy or additional cuddling.)
Laser Therapy is Painless
When considering pet treatments, pain and suffering are always top of the list. Cold laser therapy is not painful. In fact, many of our patients appear to enjoy it. It is not uncommon for pets to fall asleep during therapy.
Laser Therapy Is Non-Invasive
Another advantage of cool lasers is their non-invasive nature. Pets do not need to be put under anesthesia throughout their treatments. Your animal companion will also not need to be shaved. While your four-legged friend will need to wear special spectacles, the procedure does not need any surgical incisions.
It’s Very Versatile
Laser therapy can be used safely in conjunction with a variety of other treatments. For example, if your pet has an accident and injures their leg, they may require surgery. In such cases, laser therapy can aid in the recovery process after surgery. The treatments can also be repeated as needed. There is no need to wait in between sessions, which can be advantageous.
It Works!
Last but not least, laser therapy actually works! It has made many of our lovely patients feel better. We can’t overstate how amazing it is to see a stiff old dog become lively and playful again.
How Many Sessions Would My Pet Need?
Pet treatment regimens are always developed on an individual basis, following a comprehensive evaluation of the pet. Our veterinary patients are all unique, and so should their treatment plans!
Your veterinarian will decide the number of sessions required and will reassess and evaluate on a regular basis. The schedule can be changed over time, and it will taper off once the full advantages are realized. For further information, ask your veterinarian.
Is Laser Therapy Appropriate For My Pet?
While we are delighted to be able to provide this therapy, it is not a one-size-fits-all treatment solution and will not be appropriate for every medical situation. Every pet should have a personalized care routine that is based on their age, health, physiology, and lifestyle. However, if you believe your pet could benefit, it is not a bad idea to consult with your veterinarian.
What Can I Expect at My Pet’s Appointment?
When you arrive for your consultation, your furry friend will be given special glasses to wear. (These may appear cute, but they are meant to protect the eyes.)
The technician will position the laser over the area of your pet’s body that is being treated. They will keep the laser in place for a set period of time. This normally takes between three and ten minutes. This is completely harmless to the pet. In fact, some people doze off throughout their sessions!
Conclusion: Cold laser therapy is a painless, non-invasive treatment that relies on light therapy. The lights employed in cold lasers cause certain reactions in the body, providing a variety of healing effects. These include less pain, inflammation, faster healing time, and enhanced cell function. The medications can be used to treat a wide range of medical concerns in pets, but they are most commonly used to aid dogs with arthritis.
Book An Appointment At Our Severn, MD Veterinary Clinic
Are you interested in learning more about cold laser therapy? Do you believe your pet could benefit? You are welcome to contact us at any time. As your Severn, MD pet hospital, we are always ready to assist!
