Medical Conditions Helped By Veterinary Laser Therapy

Veterinary laser therapy for dogs & cats has become an essential tool in veterinary medicine, providing relief from pain, reducing inflammation, and speeding up healing for a wide range of conditions. At Safe Harbor Animal Hospital, we utilize Companion Laser Therapy, an advanced form of photobiomodulation (PBM), to treat both acute and chronic conditions in pets. This treatment has proven to be effective for numerous ailments, offering a safe, non-invasive option for many pets who might otherwise struggle with prolonged discomfort or slow healing.

Common Medical Conditions That Respond Well To Veterinary Laser Therapy

Here are some of the most common conditions that benefit from veterinary laser therapy:

Arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition in aging pets, particularly dogs, and can significantly affect their quality of life by causing chronic pain and stiffness in their joints. Veterinary laser therapy helps reduce inflammation in the affected joints, promoting better mobility and relieving pain. Pets with arthritis often show noticeable improvements in their ability to move and exercise after just a few laser therapy treatments.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that affects many dogs, especially large breeds, causing the hip joint to form improperly. This can lead to pain and restricted movement over time. Laser therapy can ease discomfort by reducing inflammation in the hip area and promoting healing of the surrounding tissues. Regular treatments can make a significant difference in managing the pain associated with this condition.

Post-Surgical Recovery

After surgery, pets can experience swelling, bruising, and pain, all of which can slow down their recovery. Laser therapy accelerates the body’s natural healing processes by increasing circulation and reducing inflammation, making it easier for your pet to recover quickly and with less discomfort. This is especially beneficial after orthopedic surgeries, soft tissue repairs, or wound care procedures. A research study conducted by Mississippi State University showed that dogs who got laser therapy had surgical incisions that healed faster than dogs that didn’t get laser treatments.

Wounds and Skin Conditions

Pets with wounds, anal gland infections, hot spots, or lick granulomas can also benefit from laser therapy. The light energy stimulates cell regeneration in the skin, encouraging faster healing of open wounds, burns, or skin irritations. Laser therapy also reduces itching and discomfort, which can help prevent pets from licking or scratching at the affected area.

Lameness and Tendonitis

Lameness and tendonitis are common issues in pets that involve pain in the muscles or tendons, leading to difficulty in walking or moving. Veterinary laser therapy reduces inflammation in these soft tissues, which helps to alleviate pain and restore mobility. Many pets return to normal activity levels much faster when laser therapy is part of their treatment plan.

Sinusitis and Ear Inflammation

Chronic sinusitis or inflamed ears can cause significant discomfort for your pet, leading to problems like head shaking, pawing at the ears, or difficulty breathing. Veterinary laser therapy can reduce swelling and irritation in these areas, providing relief from inflammation and allowing the tissue to heal properly.

When To Avoid Laser Therapy?

We avoid laser therapy on cancerous (neoplastic) lesions, active bleeding, pregnant animals, and direct exposure to the eyes.

Laser Therapy In The Lowcountry

Want to learn more about Shuler Vet Clinic’s veterinary laser therapy services for dogs & cats? Click HERE

Safe Harbor Animal Hospital in Mount Pleasant SC is part of a locally owned, family-owned network of animal hospitals known as Animal Hospitals of the Lowcountry. Our offices are comprised of:

  • Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital located on Ben Sawyer Boulevard.
  • Shuler Veterinary Clinic located on North Hwy 17.
  • Safe Harbor Animal Hospital located on Muhlenbergia Drive