Pet Laser Therapy

Pets often slow down when they’re in pain, even when the cause isn’t obvious.

What a Laser Therapy Session Looks Like

Therapeutic laser treatment uses a handheld device to deliver light to a targeted area. A session usually takes a few minutes, depending on the area being treated. Your pet wears protective eyewear, and a team member stays with them throughout.

Laser therapy does not require an incision or recovery time, and sedation is generally unnecessary. We may recommend it as part of a care plan for dogs and cats with arthritis, injuries, or discomfort during recovery from surgery. We’ll explain whether it is appropriate for your pet and what to expect from treatment.

Common Questions About Laser Therapy for Pets

If laser therapy is new to you, you may wonder whether it hurts, how it may help, or how many visits your pet might need. We’ve answered those common questions below. If your pet has a specific condition, ask us whether laser therapy could be a useful part of their care plan.

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Does laser therapy hurt my pet?

Laser therapy is generally comfortable. Your pet may feel mild warmth where the device is applied, but the treatment involves no needles or incisions and usually requires no sedation. A team member stays with your pet throughout the session.

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How many sessions will my pet need?

The number of sessions depends on your pet’s condition and response to treatment. An injury or surgical incision may need only a few visits, while chronic arthritis may call for a series of treatments followed by less frequent sessions. We’ll reassess your pet along the way and adjust the plan as needed.

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Does laser therapy replace pain medication?

Laser therapy may help some pets need less pain medication, but it is usually one part of a broader plan. We may combine it with oral or injectable medication and weight management. Your veterinarian will assess your pet’s response before making any changes to their medication, especially if they have kidney or liver concerns.

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Is laser therapy right for every pet?

Laser therapy is not appropriate for every pet or every treatment area. We avoid directing the laser at the eyes, over known or suspected tumors, or over the uterus during pregnancy. Results also vary between pets. Our team will assess your pet’s condition and explain whether laser therapy is a reasonable option.

Conditions Laser Therapy Can Help

Laser therapy may help manage pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, joint disease, sprains, strains, and some back or ligament injuries. We may also include it in a recovery plan after pet surgery to help manage discomfort and swelling.

For some pets, laser therapy may be considered for skin conditions, including lick granulomas, as part of pet dermatology and allergy care. Its usefulness depends on the condition and the individual pet. Your veterinarian will explain what benefit to expect and how we’ll assess your pet’s response.

Building a Treatment Plan

We tailor the treatment plan to your pet and adjust it based on their response.

The number of laser therapy sessions depends on your pet’s condition, how long it has been present, and how your pet responds. A recent injury may need only a few visits. Chronic arthritis often calls for a series of treatments followed by less frequent visits to help maintain comfort.

Older pets with arthritis may benefit from discussing laser therapy during a senior pet care visit. For some joint or tendon conditions, pet shockwave therapy may be another option. Explore all our veterinary services for related care.

What it treats

We may recommend laser therapy for pets with arthritis, hip dysplasia, other joint conditions, sprains, or cruciate ligament injuries. It may also be part of a care plan after surgery or for some slow-healing wounds. Your veterinarian will assess whether it’s appropriate for your pet.

What a visit involves

Laser therapy sessions usually take only a few minutes and generally require no sedation or recovery time. Your pet can typically go home right afterward. We’ll let you know if their underlying condition calls for any activity restrictions.

A veterinarian in green scrubs gently holds and comforts a small white dog