Last Updated on March 1, 2023 by Pauline G. Carter
As a pet owner, you want the best for your furry friend, and that includes keeping them healthy and injury-free. Unfortunately, accidents can happen, and our beloved dogs can suffer from a variety of injuries, from minor cuts and scrapes to more serious conditions such as arthritis and joint injuries. It’s crucial to treat these injuries promptly to prevent them from worsening and causing further harm to our pets.
Laser therapy is a non-invasive and effective treatment option for dog injuries that is gaining popularity among veterinarians and pet owners alike. This therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and stimulate healing in damaged tissues. It has been shown to reduce pain, inflammation, and promote tissue regeneration in dogs.
How does laser therapy work for dogs?
Laser therapy is a type of medical treatment that uses a beam of light to stimulate healing in damaged tissues. It has been used for many years in human medicine, and more recently, in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of conditions in dogs.
Laser therapy works by using specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and reach the damaged tissues. These wavelengths of light are absorbed by the cells in the tissues, which then stimulate the production of ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) in the mitochondria of the cells. This increase in ATP production promotes healing by reducing inflammation, increasing circulation, and promoting tissue regeneration.
There are different types of lasers used in therapy, and each has its unique properties and benefits. The most common types of lasers used in veterinary medicine are:
Class 3b Lasers: These lasers have a low power output and are used for superficial tissue injuries, such as skin wounds and minor muscle strains. They are also useful in treating acupuncture points in dogs.
Class 4 Lasers: These lasers have a higher power output and are used for deeper tissue injuries, such as arthritis and joint injuries. They are also used to treat chronic pain and inflammation in dogs.
CO2 Lasers: These lasers are used for surgical procedures, such as tumor removal and cauterization of tissues. They produce a focused beam of light that vaporizes the tissues, reducing the risk of bleeding and infection.
What disease can laser therapy treat dogs?
Soft tissue injuries are common injuries in dogs, particularly in active and athletic dogs. These types of injuries can include muscle strains, ligament sprains, and contusions. Laser therapy is an effective treatment option for these injuries, as it can reduce pain and inflammation and promote faster healing. Soft tissue injuries can be particularly painful and can limit a dog’s mobility, so laser therapy can be an excellent option to help dogs recover quickly and get back to their active lifestyles.
Arthritis is a common condition in older dogs that can cause chronic pain and inflammation in joints. Laser therapy can be used to reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthritis and improve mobility. It works by reducing inflammation in the joints and promoting tissue regeneration, which can help alleviate symptoms of arthritis and improve a dog’s quality of life. Laser therapy can be particularly effective when used in combination with other treatments for arthritis, such as medication and weight management.
Wound healing is another common use of laser therapy in dogs. Laser therapy can help stimulate the production of collagen, which is essential for the growth of new tissues and the healing of wounds. It can also reduce pain and inflammation associated with wounds, making it an effective treatment option for a variety of injuries, including surgical incisions, puncture wounds, and lacerations.
Joint injuries in dogs can include cruciate ligament tears, hip dysplasia, and other conditions that cause pain and inflammation in joints. Laser therapy can help reduce pain and inflammation in these joints, promote tissue regeneration, and improve mobility. Joint injuries can be particularly challenging to manage, as they can cause chronic pain and limited mobility, but laser therapy can be an effective and non-invasive treatment option for these conditions.
Finally, laser therapy can also be used to treat a variety of skin conditions in dogs, including hot spots, dermatitis, and other inflammatory skin conditions. It works by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue regeneration, which can help improve the appearance and health of the skin. Skin conditions can be particularly uncomfortable and can cause a range of symptoms, including itching, redness, and discomfort, so laser therapy can be an effective treatment option for improving a dog’s skin health and quality of life.
Add Laser Therapy to Your Dog’s Pain Treatment
Laser therapy is an effective and non-invasive treatment option for a variety of dog injuries, including soft tissue injuries, arthritis, wound healing, joint injuries, and skin conditions. By reducing pain and inflammation and promoting tissue regeneration, laser therapy can help dogs recover faster and improve their mobility and quality of life.
It is important for pet owners to be proactive in treating their dogs’ injuries and seeking out the best treatment options available. Laser therapy can be an excellent option for dogs with injuries or chronic conditions that are causing pain or limiting mobility. It is also a safe and non-invasive treatment option that can be used in conjunction with other therapies to improve outcomes.
If you have a dog with an injury or chronic condition, it is worth considering laser therapy as a treatment option. With its proven effectiveness and non-invasive nature, laser therapy can help your dog recover faster and enjoy a better quality of life.