How Does Cold Laser Therapy Work on Dogs? Is It Safe?
Cold laser therapy is a painless, non-invasive treatment that employs low-level lasers or LEDs to trigger the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Medics have been using it for decades in human medicine, and pet doctors are now using it in veterinary medicine, including treating dogs.
In this article, we will explore how cold laser therapy works on dogs and the potential benefits it can offer for various conditions. We will also discuss the use of cold laser therapy devices for home use and the importance of consulting with a veterinarian before starting treatment.
How Does a Cold Laser Therapy Device for Dogs Work?
A cold laser therapy device for dogs consists of a handheld device that emits a laser or LED light. The device can be portable and easy to use, allowing it to be used in various settings, including a veterinarian’s office, a pet groomer’s salon, or even at home.
Furthermore, the dog laser therapy machine emits a specific wavelength of light absorbed by the cells in the body. This absorption of light energy causes a chemical reaction within the cells, leading to an addition in the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). ATP is a vital energy source for the body and is involved in many cellular processes, including cell growth and repair.
Using a cold laser therapy device for dogs can offer several potential benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and promoting the healing of damaged tissue. It can be used to treat a variety of conditions, such as arthritis, tendonitis, ligament injuries, and wound healing.
The specific treatment protocol will depend on the treated condition and the individual dog. Veterinarians usually shave off the treatment area, if necessary, and then the cold laser therapy device for dogs is applied to the skin.
Moreover, the treatment time and frequency will vary, but sessions are typically short (5-10 minutes), and the vet may repeat it several times per week. Some dogs may experience immediate improvement, while others may require multiple treatments before noticing a difference.
Cold Laser Therapy for Dogs at Home
In addition to being used in a professional setting, this treatment is also administrable at home with a home-use device. A dog laser therapy machine is typically smaller and less powerful than those used in a clinical setting, but it can still be effective for certain conditions.
Using cold laser therapy for dogs at home can be a convenient and cost-effective option for pet owners, as it allows for ongoing treatment without requiring frequent trips to the veterinarian’s office. It is also a non-invasive, painless treatment option that can be administered quickly and comfortably in the comfort of the home.
However, it is crucial to remember that home-use cold laser therapy devices may not be suitable for all conditions and may not provide the same benefit as treatment by a trained professional using a more powerful device.
What Potential Benefits Can Cold Laser Therapy Offer to Dogs?
The use of cold laser therapy for dogs at home or the vet can offer several potential benefits, including:
- Reducing inflammation: Cold laser therapy can effectively manage inflammation by decreasing the production of inflammatory cytokines and increasing the production of anti-inflammatory ones. By doing so, this treatment can help to relieve pain and promote healing in conditions such as arthritis, tendonitis, and ligament injuries.
- Improving circulation: It can increase blood flow to the treated area, which can help to bring oxygen and nutrients to the cells and remove waste products, which can aid in the healing process and improve overall tissue health.
- Promoting the healing of damaged tissue: This therapy can stimulate collagen production (an essential protein for tissue repair). It can also encourage the proliferation of fibroblasts, which are cells involved in synthesizing collagen and other extracellular matrix components.
- Reducing pain: Cold laser therapy can help to reduce pain by decreasing the production of pain-causing chemicals and increasing the production of endorphins, which are natural painkillers. It can also reduce muscle spasms and improve muscle function.
- Improving nerve function: The cold laser treatment can help to enhance nerve function by increasing the production of nerve growth factor, which promotes the growth and repair of nerve cells. It can also reduce inflammation and swelling in the area, which can help to improve nerve conduction.
Overall, cold laser therapy for dogs at home or the vet is a safe and effective treatment option for dogs that can offer a range of potential benefits.
The Bottom Line
A dog laser therapy machine is a safe and effective treatment option for pups that can offer a range of potential benefits. It is a non-invasive, painless, and well-tolerated treatment that can be administered in various settings, including at home with a home-use device.
Suppose you are considering cold laser therapy for your dog. In that case, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate treatment protocol and to ensure that it is the most suitable option for your pet.
A B-cure Laser Vet can provide the necessary guidance and support to ensure that your dog receives the maximum benefit from the treatment.
