Header Logo
Laser Therapy for Pets: Basic FAQs
Did you know that laser therapy is a highly successful and adaptable modern veterinary treatment? This cutting-edge medicine has been around for decades, and it has made thousands, if not millions, of pets feel better. This article features a local Sandstone, MN veterinarian discussing laser therapy for pets.
What is Laser Therapy?
Albert Einstein is credited with creating Cold Laser Therapy in 1916. He coined the phrase “Light Amplification through Stimulated Emission of Radiation,” or LASER. The concept became a medical reality in 1967, when Professor Andre Mester began employing low-power lasers.
The key to laser therapy is actually in the name: Light Amplification. Light waves affect the body at the cellular level and can cause certain biological changes. This is referred to as photobiomodulation. Cold laser, also known as low level laser or Class IV laser therapy, stimulates cells with electromagnetic energy from the infrared light spectrum.
Lasers generate three types of light beams: monochromatic, or single wavelength; coherent, or electromagnetic radiation; and collimated, which emits photons in a single beam of light. The last two types, coherent and collimated, can be directed to very specific locations. This is where the term “laser focus” came from!
Lasers come in four different varieties, which are classified by strength. Class 1 is the weakest. These are the varieties utilized in barcode scanners, which you can find in many stores today. On the other end of the spectrum, the Class 4 laser is the most powerful. These can cut through stuff.
Class 3 is commonly utilized in therapy. This form of therapy can assist in relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and improving nerve function. It can also help speed up the healing process. It also enhances and/or restores metabolic function and promotes cell health, functioning, and metabolism. Cold lasers do not penetrate deeply beneath the skin’s surface, and do not cut tissue.
What Issues Can Laser Therapy Help Treat in Pets?
Laser therapy for dogs is currently utilized to treat a wide range of conditions in pets. There is a reason why it is becoming popular.
In the realm of veterinary medicine, lasers are most commonly employed to cure arthritis, especially in dogs. However, they are also used to assist dogs with many different problems.
This includes the following:
- Neurological Disorders
- Inflammation
- Joint Pain
- Neuropathic Pain
- Tendon And Ligament Issues
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Traumatic Injuries
- Wound Healing
- Musculoskeletal Injuries
- Pain
- Ear Infections
- Muscle Atrophy
- Skin Problems
- Chronic Pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Intravertebral Disc Disease
- Lick Granuloma Cellulitis
- Arthritis Wounds
- Ear Problems
For further information, consult your veterinarian.
What Are the Benefits of Cold Laser Therapy?
When choosing any type of treatment for your beloved pet, you should assess the advantages and disadvantages. There are certainly more of the former in this scenario!
Here are some of the primary advantages:
Laser Therapy Is Painless
When it comes to pet treatments, their comfort levels should always be put first. Cold laser therapy is painless. In fact, several of our patients frequently fall asleep during treatments.
It’s Non-Invasive
Another advantage of cool lasers is that they are not intrusive. Pets are not required to be put under anesthesia for their treatments. Your furry friend will also not need to be shaved. While your canine companion will need to wear special glasses, the treatment does not involve any surgical incisions.
Laser Therapy Is Quite Safe
Another reason why we offer cold laser therapy is that there are no known adverse effects. That alone is a compelling rationale for utilizing cold lasers in therapy.
Fast Sessions
Cold laser therapy sessions for dogs don’t take much time, typically lasting between 10 minutes and half an hour.
No Recovery Time Required.
As previously said, cold laser therapy treatments are rapid and painless. Fido and Fluffy won’t require any special upkeep, just a snack and a few head scratches. (Your pet is unlikely to protest a new toy or additional cuddles.)
Laser Therapy Is Quite Versatile
Laser therapy can be safely combined with a variety of different forms of treatment. For example, if your pet is in an accident and injures their leg, they may require surgery. In such cases, laser therapy can aid in the recovery process following surgery.
The treatments can be repeated as often as necessary. There is no need to wait between sessions, which can be useful.
What Should I Expect at My Pet’s Appointment?
When you arrive for your consultation, your furry companion will be given special glasses to wear. (These may appear cute, but they are intended to protect the eyes.)
The technician will hold the laser over the area of your pet’s body that is being treated. They will keep the laser in place for a certain amount of time, usually three to ten minutes. This has no negative consequences for the pet. In fact, several participants dozed off throughout their sessions!
How Many Sessions Will My Pet Need?
Pet treatment plans are always created on an individual basis, once the pet has been thoroughly evaluated. All of our furry patients are unique, and so should their treatment approaches!
Your Sandstone, MN veterinarian will decide the number of sessions required and will check and reevaluate regularly. The schedule can be changed over time, and it will taper off once the full advantages have been received. Contact your veterinarian for further information.
Is Laser Therapy Suitable For My Pet?
While we are happy to be able to provide this therapy, it is not a one-size-fits-all treatment solution and will not be appropriate for every medical condition. Each pet should have a personalized care routine depending on their age, health, physiology, and lifestyle. However, if you believe your pet would benefit, you should consult with your Sandstone, MN veterinarian.
What to Expect from Laser Therapy for Dogs in 2025
How long does a typical treatment session take?
A typical laser therapy session for pets generally lasts between 10 and 30 minutes. The exact duration depends on factors such as the pet’s condition, severity of the issue, and the type of laser being utilized. The process is non-invasive, causing minimal stress and allowing animals to stay comfortable throughout. Because it targets affected areas without damaging surrounding tissues, pets often require no downtime afterward. Veterinary professionals may adjust treatment frequency or length based on elements like the pet’s response, overall health, and ongoing progress. This flexible approach encourages a swift, comfortable recovery.
What will my pet feel during treatment?
During cold laser therapy, pets generally feel minimal to no discomfort. The laser does not cut or produce intense heat, and many animals stay calm or even relax enough to fall asleep. The procedure involves positioning a device over the targeted area for several minutes, allowing concentrated light energy to stimulate cells and enhance healing. Protective goggles are sometimes used to safeguard the eyes. Pets are typically alert before and after each session, with no sedation or incisions required. The absence of pain, recovery time, or serious side effects makes this therapy a popular option.
How many sessions are typically needed?
Laser therapy sessions are typically determined after a thorough evaluation to address each pet’s unique needs. Some pets benefit from weekly sessions for a few weeks, while others require a series of treatments spread over a longer period. Because laser therapy is noninvasive, sessions can be scheduled frequently. The schedule often tapers once improvements in pain relief or mobility become evident. A veterinary team closely monitors progress and makes adjustments as needed, ensuring each pet receives a personalized plan. The ultimate goal is to provide enough treatments to maximize comfort and recovery.
What can I expect at home after treatment?
After a cold laser therapy session, most pets resume their usual daily routines without downtime or sedation. The treatments are painless, and no special precautions are needed at home. Some pets may appear relaxed or drowsy for a short time, which is normal as the light energy stimulates cells and promotes healing. There is typically no need for wound care or additional medication. Snacks, gentle walks, and routine grooming can continue as usual. Regular check-ins with a veterinary team can confirm progress and ensure further treatments are tailored to each pet’s comfort and needs.
Is there scientific documentation supporting laser therapy?
After a cold laser therapy session, most pets resume their usual daily routines without downtime or sedation. The treatments are painless, and no special precautions are needed at home. Some pets may appear relaxed or drowsy for a short time, which is normal as the light energy stimulates cells and promotes healing. There is typically no need for wound care or additional medication. Snacks, gentle walks, and routine grooming can continue as usual. Regular check-ins with a veterinary team can confirm progress and ensure further treatments are tailored to each pet’s comfort and needs.
Book An Appointment With Our Sandstone, MN Veterinary Clinic
Would you like to learn more about cold laser therapy? Do you believe your pet would benefit? Please feel free to contact us at any time. As your Sandstone, MN pet hospital, we are always available to assist!
