Laser therapy, also referred to as cold laser therapy, has long been used as a treatment option for humans. However, it has also been found to be effective in helping pets with pain relief. The American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation defines laser therapy as a technique that utilizes a laser to stimulate cell regeneration and increase blood supply to facilitate tissue healing. Our team at Hollywood Cat and Dog Hospital in West Hollywood utilizes laser therapy as a non-invasive way to treat pets suffering from pain or discomfort.
Laser Therapy and Pain Relief for Pets
Laser therapy is a great way to alleviate pain in your dog. This procedure is done by opening blood vessels (vasodilation) and activating the lymphatic drainage system, thereby draining swollen regions. This procedure suppresses swelling propagated by bruising or inflammation, alleviating pain. The lasers also activate nerve cells, which prevent pain impulses from reaching the brain, reducing nerve sensitivity.
Laser therapies for pets often promote the release of elevated amounts of naturally occurring endorphins, which help the animal feel much better. This therapy is a beneficial treatment for post-operative rehabilitation. In certain circumstances, laser treatment can be sufficient in relieving pain and speeding up the healing process.
Conditions Treated Using Laser Therapy
There are many ways your pet can benefit from laser therapy. We often use this treatment at our West Hollywood office for:
- Spinal disc swelling
- Post-surgical nerve repairs
- Acute and chronic injuries
- Osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia
- Open wounds
- Bone fractures
- Inflammation
Types of Laser Classification
Laser classification based on wavelength and maximum output in power. Current classifications consist of:
Class 1: These are mild and safe.
Class 2: These lie in the visible based light spectrum (400-700 nm). Most of the lasers that fall under this category consist of outstanding therapeutic lasers and laser pointers.
Class 3 Lasers: These are the commonly used therapeutic lasers. It is further subdivided into:
Class 3B: These are either continuously visible in the infrared spectrum or pulsed in the prevailing visible range.
Class 3R: These are continuous lasers within the visible spectrum and have less power than those classified as 3B.
Contact Our Animal Clinic for Pet Care from Our West Hollywood Veterinarian
At Hollywood Cat and Dog Hospital, we are committed to restoring your pet's health. There are no recorded side effects of laser therapy on pets, and the procedure is widely accepted throughout the veterinary medicine industry. If you think this procedure will help your pet, don't hesitate to reach out to our office today. Our team is committed to providing quality pet care to patients in and around the Hollywood area. Contact our team via phone or through our website to schedule a visit with our experienced vet or to learn more about how we can help your animal.