Prairie Ridge Veterinary Clinic

Pet Laser Therapy at Prairie Ridge

While laser therapy for pets may sound like something straight out of science fiction; it is, in fact, becoming a common and effective treatment for companion animals across the country. Dr. Yetter and the Prairie Ridge Animal Clinic staff are excited to introduce therapeutic laser services to our patients. And, while you may not think you are as excited as we are; it’s probably because you don’t know what pet laser therapy is and why it is so incredible.

Often called low-level laser therapy, cold laser therapy or Class IV laser therapy, by any name, is still a relatively new concept that is being used more recently to treat dogs with arthritis, tendon or soft tissue injuries and to promote wound healing. Cold laser therapy is a noninvasive procedure that uses light to stimulate cell regeneration and increase blood circulation.

Cold laser therapy is used to treat multiple ailments and injuries in dogs and cats.  Treatable conditions include:

• Joint injuries
• Ligament or tendon injuries
• Fractures
• Muscle sprains or strains
• Skin lesions or abrasions
• Post-trauma wounds
• Post-surgical incisions
• Arthritis
• Musculoskeletal diseases
• Nerve injury

Cold laser uses a beam of light to stimulate damaged cells to produce more energy.  The overall cellular function is increased, allowing for rapid absorption of nutrients, elimination of wastes, and reproduction of new cells.  The new cellular activity aids in:

• Alleviating chronic or acute pain
• Reducing inflammation
• Reducing swelling
• Increasing circulation
• Speeding up healing and recovery
• Release of endorphin, the body’s natural pain reliever

Dogs find laser therapy relaxing and tend to enjoy the treatment. After laser therapy, dog owners might see their dog go upstairs more often, play with a ball he’s not picked up in months or go back to getting on the couch for his nightly snuggle with family members. And, when dogs have better mobility, medications can often be reduced.