Laser Therapy for Dogs:
Is It the Right Choice for Your Dog?
Watching our beloved pets grapple with pain is never easy and naturally, we seek every available avenue to provide them relief. Enter Laser Therapy at Knutsford Vets – a cutting-edge approach to traditional pet ailments.
But what is it and how can it rejuvenate your dog?
What is Laser Therapy for Dogs?
Laser stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. In the context of veterinary medicine, Laser Therapy refers to the use of specific wavelengths of light to stimulate the body’s healing processes. It’s non-invasive and often offers an alternative or complement to traditional treatments or surgeries.
Our journey with Purdey, a Labrador who came to our clinic, offers a glimpse into this. Facing forelimbs lameness, a plated shoulder through a break, shoulder and elbow pain and a history of injuries, she was introduced to Laser Therapy.
Is Laser Therapy Right for My Dog?
Laser Therapy is designed for a wide range of ailments, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. The treatment’s success depends on factors like your dog’s specific condition, age and overall health. You should always discuss with your vet or vet physiotherapist before beginning treatment. And yes, you’ll need a referral from a vet before kickstarting the process.
How Does Laser Therapy Work?
Laser therapy harnesses light chromophores (molecules that absorb light), which the body uses to control our perception of pain, providing cells with energy and necessary chemical mediators. The process gets more scientific when these chromophores are absorbed by the cells’ mitochondria, producing chemical mediators that help with inflammation.
The result? The body undergoes the healing process faster and more efficiently, minimising painful stages like inflammation. In Purdey’s case, it meant alleviating her pains and addressing her specific issues head-on.
What Conditions Can Laser Therapy Treat in Dogs?
While Purdey’s situation shed light on her unique conditions, Laser Therapy has a broader spectrum of application:
- IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease): A condition affecting the spinal discs.
- Spondylosis: Bone spurs formation along the spine.
- Cruciate Ligament Disease: Affecting the knee joints.
- Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of joint cartilage and underlying bone.
- Hip Dysplasia: Malformation of the hip joint.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Abnormal development of the elbow joint.
- Hyperextension of Joints: Overextension causing potential ligament damage.
- Fractures: Breaks in bones.
- Wound Healing: Especially when healing by open wound
- Soft Tissue Injury: Damages to muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
This is not an exhaustive list.
The diverse applications underscore Laser Therapy’s potential in treating multiple conditions.
Do I Need to Get a Vet Referral Before I Can Start Laser Treatment?
Yes, it’s crucial. Before embarking on the Laser Therapy journey, you must have a referral from your vet. This ensures your dog’s safety and confirms that the treatment is apt for their specific conditions.
How Much Does Laser Treatment Cost?
One of the concerns pet owners often voice is the cost associated with medical treatments. The good news? Laser Therapy is cost-efficient. While prices might vary based on factors like location, frequency of sessions, and the specific condition being treated, in the long run, Laser Therapy can prove more economical than other treatments or surgeries.
A block of six sessions are available for £120,
Many insurance policies will cover physiotherapy and laser treatments under non veterinary fees so it comes out of a different insurance allocation pot.
Laser Therapy for dogs, as seen through Purdey’s recovery story, offers a beacon of hope for many pet ailments. While it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian and understand the specifics, the results can be transformative. Whether it’s a faster recovery, pain relief, or improved mobility, the benefits are undeniable. So, the next time your furry friend faces discomfort, consider shining a little light on the problem. At Knutsford Vet Surgery, Natalie Stanley who is a qualified veterinary physiotherapist, is highly trained in LASER therapy. Natalie has a veterinary physiotherapy bachelors degree (HONS) and works with animals across a wide range of therapy areas including:
- Hydrotherapy
- Full Musculoskeletal assessment
- Mobilisation
- Exercise programmes
- Other electrotherapies
- Manual therapies
To make an appointment with Natalie, please call or email us.
