Understanding Laser Therapy for Dogs
Laser therapy has become a popular option in veterinary medicine for helping dogs recover from injuries, manage chronic pain, and heal faster after surgery. It's a noninvasive, drug-free approach that appeals to pet owners looking for ways to support their dog's health without relying solely on medications.
How Does Laser Therapy Work?
The science behind laser therapy is called photobiomodulation (PBM). During PBM, specific wavelengths of light penetrate the dog's tissue, stimulating cell regeneration and repair. The laser light is absorbed by the mitochondria within cells, which increases the production of ATP (energy), reduces inflammation, promotes cellular repair and growth, and improves blood circulation. This process helps the body heal itself more efficiently.
Types of Lasers Used
Most veterinary clinics use low-level lasers (sometimes called cold lasers) that don't produce heat or damage tissue. Some conditions may require high-powered (Class IV) lasers, which can reach deeper tissues but must be used under strict veterinary supervision to avoid risks.
Common Conditions Treated
- Arthritis and joint pain
- Surgical incision healing
- Wounds and skin conditions
- Muscle strains or sprains
- Lick granulomas
- Ear infections
- Disc injuries
- Bladder infections
- Post-operative pain
Laser therapy is especially helpful for dogs who can't tolerate standard pain medications due to liver or kidney issues, senior dogs with chronic pain, and pets recovering from surgery. The type and class of laser used determine how deeply the light can penetrate, targeting either superficial tissues or reaching muscles, joints, and bones.
What Happens During a Session?
A typical session involves a handheld laser device that the technician gently moves over the affected area. Dogs are usually made comfortable, often receiving treats or attention to help them relax. Most dogs feel a gentle, warm sensation and many even doze off during the procedure. Sessions last between 10 and 30 minutes, and there's no need for sedation, shaving, or clipping fur. To ensure safety, everyone in the room—including the dog—wears protective eye goggles.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
The number of treatments depends on the condition:
- Acute issues: 5–7 sessions
- Chronic or severe problems (like arthritis or ligament injuries): 12–15 sessions, sometimes with ongoing maintenance
- Wounds or post-surgical sites: May be treated daily at first, then less often as healing progresses
Some dogs show improvement in mobility and pain relief after just a few sessions.
Clinical Benefits
Laser therapy offers several benefits:
- Reduces pain from arthritis by decreasing nerve sensitivity
- Lowers inflammation by reducing inflammatory mediators
- Increases blood flow to promote healing
- Speeds up recovery after surgery
- Supports healing of wounds, dental issues, soft tissue injuries, and chronic skin conditions
Safety and Side Effects
Laser therapy is generally very safe when performed by a trained veterinary professional. Side effects are rare, but burns or tissue damage can occur if a high-powered laser is used incorrectly. Direct eye exposure can cause retinal injury, which is why goggles are mandatory. Laser therapy shouldn't be used over known tumors, the thyroid gland, growth plates in young dogs, testicles, or a pregnant uterus, as the effects in these areas are uncertain or potentially harmful. Most dogs don't need special preparation, but anxious pets may benefit from anti-anxiety medication before treatment.
Limitations of Laser Therapy
Not all conditions respond equally well. For example, mechanical or structural issues like certain meniscus injuries may not be cured by laser therapy, though it can still offer pain relief.
Integrating Laser Therapy Into a Treatment Plan
Veterinarians often use laser therapy as part of a multimodal pain management plan alongside:
- Medications (such as NSAIDs)
- Joint supplements
- Weight management
- Hydrotherapy
- Acupuncture
- Massage
The cost per session varies based on location, condition, and session length, typically ranging from $30 to $100. Many clinics offer bundled pricing for multiple sessions, and some pet insurance plans may cover part of the expense depending on the policy.
What to Expect After Treatment
Most dogs tolerate laser therapy well, with little to no recovery time. When successful, laser therapy can reduce the need for medications. Veterinary organizations, including the American Animal Hospital Association, recommend laser therapy as part of care for chronic pain, post-surgical healing, wound management, and as a supportive option for both acute and chronic illnesses.
