Dogs and Cold Laser Therapy: A Guide for Dog Owners

Laser stands for “amplification of light by stimulated emission radiation” cold laser therapy is a new treatment to promote tissue healing, cell regeneration, cartilage, tendon, and bone healing. It helps to assist collagen synthesis. Cold laser therapy can be used in combination with other treatments as it is effective, available, and affordable.

dog and device

How does cold laser therapy work?

Laser therapy helps the natural healing of tissues and reduces pain through the photobiomodulation process. Biochemical reactions occur as a result when light interacts with cells. These reactions are known as Innovative Veterinary Care IVC. It is a beam of photon radiation in the form of light. These biochemical reactions help to boost the circulation at;

  • Cellular level
  • Reducing inflammation
  • Immune system stimulation
  • Increase in collagen production
  • The development of muscle tissues
  • Aid in the damaged tissue repair

Why should a dog’s owner consider pet laser therapy?

Laser therapy has been shown to use against various inflammations over time. The inflammations are associated with;

  • Pain just after surgery
  • Ear infection
  • Arthritis/hip dysplasia
  • Gingivitis
  • Back pain
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Anal gland infection
  • Hot spots and open wounds
  • Urinary tract infection
  • Bowel disease
  • Spinal disc swelling
  • Neuropathies (nerve damage)
  • Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears

Most of the veterinary therapy patients are older animals experiencing musculoskeletal issues. The dog owner must know about the symptoms shown by their pet.

Older Dog

Dogs of older age with musculoskeletal ailments may show the symptoms, such as;

  • Circling many times before lying down
  • Abnormal sitting
  • Unable to get up
  • Restlessness
  • Won’t wag tail
  • Trembling
  • Licking or biting area
  • Lack of appetite
  • Difficulty in downstairs and getting into the car

Is pet laser therapy comfortable for your dog?

Laser therapy is a stress-free treatment for dogs. The pets feel soothing warmth and relaxation. It is a short-duration treatment that can take up to 5-20 minutes, based on the damage and severity of the disease. Endorphins are released after the procedure and form a positive association with treatment.

What are the main illnesses that can cure by cold laser therapy?

Cold laser therapy is used for wounds after surgery. Pet laser therapy can use in spayed or neutered dogs. Apply a laser beam to a specific area to decrease swelling and speed up the healing process.




Arthritis is a common disorder in dogs. Laser therapy can help to lessen the pain and swelling from affected joints. It helps to encourage new healthy cells to grow.

Lab Dog

What type of laser therapy should use by dogs owner?

Cold laser therapy is a kind of therapy that is different from surgical laser therapy. Cold laser therapy uses low-frequency light beams to treat the fur and surface of the skin. There is no cut involved in this treatment. The high-frequency laser penetrates deep into tissues

Types of laser therapy:

The types of lasers are class 1 to class 4. The Class 1 and 2 lasers have no side effects, but class 3 and 4 laser therapy needs more precautions. The dog owner can also use laser treatment at their home.

How much does cold laser therapy cost?

The laser therapy treatment is relatively inexpensive. Mostly cold laser therapy cost between $20-50 per session. The cost of therapy may change due to the type of laser therapy and treatment area. In hip dysplasia, laser therapy applies to both hips to dissipate pain.

How long would a laser therapy session last?

The period of the session depends on the severity of the disease and the size of the breed. Arthritis and hip dysplasia take more time than other issues like wound healing after surgery, which takes just 1-3 minutes.

How long do the benefits of pet laser therapy remain?

It depends on what kind of laser treatment is being operated by a veterinarian. In arthritis, cold laser therapy is employed every day in the early days of treatment. But when a veterinarian finds that the inflammation is under control, he may apply therapy once a week or monthly.

A dog owner can use the device from the comfort of his home

A pet laser therapy device can also be used at home. In-home conditions, your pet feels relaxed and to be less stressed. Home laser treatment can save you money and time.

Safety of pet laser therapy

Laser therapy is a perfectly safe treatment. But some precautions are necessary while using laser therapy treatment.

  • Mishandling may cause skin burns in your pet. The pet owner should know about the frequency of the laser beam.
  • The point of laser light directly into the dog’s eye and the person, who is the administrator, may cause permanent retinal damage and loss of vision. Safety goggles are necessary to wear or cover the dog’s eyes.
  • Avoid using lasers on the tumor-affected area because laser light can increase the growth of tumor cells.
  • Laser treatment is also dangerous for a pregnant dog’s uterus

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