Introducing LASER therapy at Hume Park Animal Hospital
As our motto is to provide cutting edge care for your pet, we are proud to announce that we now offer Companion Animal Laser Therapy also called as laser photobiomodulation therapy or cold laser therapy. We are dedicated to utilizing the highest standard of veterinary technology and using the companion therapy class IV laser is one of the ways in which we strive to do so. Laser therapy has been scientifically proven to be successful in treating post-surgical pain and many acute and chronic conditions – including osteoarthritis, wounds, numerous neurological conditions, pain, lick granulomas, ear infections, and many more. If you have any questions about how laser therapy can benefit your pet please contact us today.
What is laser therapy?
Laser therapy is a noninvasive treatment designed to reduce pain and inflammation, and to speed healing. This treatment
is quickly becoming standard of care in both human and veterinary medicine. Our staff members administer laser therapy
via a handpiece that emits this therapeutic infrared light in a fast, drug-free, and soothing treatment. The light can treat
surface problems such as wounds, as well as deeper structures, penetrating through fur, skin, and fat if necessary to reach
damaged tissue.
The therapeutic infrared light targets the mitochondria in damaged cells and stimulates them to regenerate and
stimulates them to return to optimal function. This regenerative process is called photobiomodulation (PBM). PBM does
not impact normal cells, but can help damaged cells to recover from injury faster.
Laser therapy can be utilized as an adjunct to existing treatments, often reducing or replacing the need for pain
medications.
What are treatments like?
Laser therapy treatments are fast and pain-free, making them well-tolerated by most pets. There is no clipping or shaving
required for the treatment area. When your pet arrives for therapy they will be situated in a comfortable position, and
may be outfitted with laser-safe doggles. You will also receive laser-safe eyewear to wear during treatment if you remain
with your pet during therapy
Treatments take approximately 5 – 10 minutes depending on the size of the treatment area and the condition being
treated. During this treatment your pet will experience a soothing warmth that often relaxes patients, and sometimes
makes them go to sleep!
Some conditions require several treatment sessions for optimal outcomes. When your pet’s condition is evaluated your
veterinarian will discuss their recommendations with you.
Can laser therapy help my pet?
Laser therapy is an effective adjunct treatment for a wide variety of conditions including:
- Wounds, new and chronic
- Arthritis
- Skin Conditions, new and chronic
- Pain & Inflammation
- Pain Relief for a variety of conditions
- Post-Operative Recovery
- Rehabilitation
- Geriatric Care
- Lick Granulomas (the spots your pet has been licking a long time)
- Otitis (ear inflammation/infection)
- Dental Conditions
- Fractures (post surgery)
- Abdominal Disorders
- And More!
Laser therapy is particularly useful for pets with limited medical treatment options, such as:
- Pets with liver disease who cannot take medications
- Cats, for whom only a few pain-control medications are approved
- Exotic pets for whom medication administration is difficult or impossible
- Older pets with diminished organ function
Is laser therapy safe for pets?
Laser therapy is safe if performed correctly, using the proper settings and treatment duration. We have the latest, advanced machine that calculates the settings and duration based on the medical condition being treated automatically. Our professional staff is trained in administering treatments with full safety precautions.
