The Dog Blog
From the Vet
Photobiomodulation: Understanding Laser Therapy for Dogs
by Dr. Eileen Savier CVA, CVCH
Advancements in veterinary medicine continue to provide innovative and effective treatments for managing pain and promoting healing in our pets. One such treatment, photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), commonly referred to as laser therapy, has gained popularity in recent years. This non-invasive approach helps reduce pain, inflammation, and enhance tissue repair in dogs suffering from a variety of conditions.
A Brief History of Laser
Laser therapy has its roots in the 1960s when researchers began studying how certain wavelengths of light could stimulate cellular activity. Initially explored for human medicine, Laser therapy soon found applications in veterinary care. Over the decades, technological advancements have refined laser devices, making them safer and more effective for use in companion animals. Today, Laser therapy is widely used in veterinary practices to support pain management and accelerate healing.
How Does Laser Therapy Work?
Laser therapy utilizes specific wavelengths of light to penetrate tissues, stimulating cellular energy production and promoting healing at a microscopic level. When light interacts with cells, particularly the mitochondria, it enhances the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule responsible for energy within cells. This process helps reduce inflammation, increase blood circulation, and speed up tissue repair.
Treatments are painless and usually well tolerated by dogs. A veterinarian or trained technician applies a handheld laser probe to the affected area, allowing the light energy to be absorbed by the tissues. Depending on the condition being treated, sessions may last anywhere from a few minutes to 10-15 minutes, with frequency varying based on the severity of the condition.
Common Conditions Treated with Laser therapy in Dogs
Laser therapy is a versatile treatment option for numerous canine health issues. Some of the most common conditions include:
- Arthritis and Joint Disease: Laser therapy can reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, and other degenerative joint diseases.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains, sprains, and muscle injuries benefit from laser therapy as it accelerates healing and relieves discomfort.
- Post-Surgical Recovery: Laser therapy is frequently used after surgical procedures to promote faster healing and minimize post-operative pain.
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Dogs with spinal issues, including IVDD, often experience relief from laser therapy by reducing inflammation around compressed nerves.
- Wound Healing: Cuts, abrasions, and surgical incisions heal more efficiently when treated with laser therapy, reducing the risk of infection.
- Lick Granulomas: These self-inflicted wounds caused by excessive licking can be challenging to manage, but laser therapy helps reduce irritation and promotes tissue repair.
Contraindications and Precautions
While Laser therapy is generally safe, there are certain situations where laser therapy should be avoided or used with caution. Contraindications include:
- Cancerous Tumors: Since laser therapy stimulates cell growth, it is not recommended for use over known or suspected tumors, as it could potentially encourage cancer cell proliferation.
- Active Bleeding Wounds: Laser therapy increases blood flow, which may exacerbate active bleeding in open wounds or injuries.
- Pregnant Dogs: Due to the potential effects on fetal development, Laser therapy should not be applied directly over a pregnant dog’s abdomen.
- Areas of Recent Steroid Injection: The combination of steroids and laser therapy can increase the risk of tissue damage.
Conclusion
Laser therapy is a valuable tool in veterinary medicine, offering pain relief, reduced inflammation, and accelerated healing for many common canine conditions. As a non-invasive and well-tolerated treatment, laser therapy provides an excellent alternative or complement to traditional medications and therapies. If you believe your dog could benefit from laser therapy, consult with your veterinarian to determine if it is an appropriate option for their specific needs.
About Dr. Eileen Savier
Barks & Recreation is proud to feature Dr. Eileen Savier CVA, CVCH as our Veterinary Blogger in our “From the Vet” Series — offering information related to the health and welfare of your furry family members! Currently part of the team of doctors at Keystone Veterinary Clinic, Dr. Savier is a 2012 Graduate of the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, She completed her clinical experience at The Ohio State University and after veterinary school she pursued further education and certification in Veterinary Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and Fear Free veterinary visits. Dr. Savier has a special interest in integrative medicine, animal behavior, and internal medicine and is committed to improving animal health care by integrating Eastern and Western philosophies. She enjoys working with fearful & aggressive dogs and cats and she has had additional training in low stress handling techniques and encourages positive reinforcement during exams and procedures. Her clinical interests include pain management, animal behavior, geriatric patient care, and internal medicine.
Dr. Savier is a member of the following associations:
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
- International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM)
- American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP)
- American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
- American Association of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (AATCVM)
- Ohio Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA)
Dr. Savier shares her home with two (soon to be three) dogs, two cats, and a toddler. She lovingly refers to her two dogs as Coconut Retrievers as they were rescue dogs she brought home from the island of St. Kitts. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, and planning her next Disney vacation.
