Pet Laser Treatments in Hadley, MA

Pet Laser Treatments

Riverbend Animal Hospital has a Class IV therapy laser. It delivers light therapy at two different wavelengths invisible to the naked eye: one that works to reduce inflammation and swelling, and one that is targeted to reduce pain.

Lasers emit light of specific wavelengths that can be utilized by cells. The light enters the mitochondria within cells, stimulating the production of ATP. ATP is the fundamental energy source for cells. Cells that are injured, diseased or otherwise impaired do not make ATP efficiently. Stimulating ATP production increases the vitality of the cells. Cells become healthier faster, inflammation is decreased, pain is resolved, and wounds heal faster.

In our surgical department, we use laser therapy regularly. All surgical incisions, except those dealing with cancer, are treated post-operatively with laser. All patients having orthopedic procedures are treated at their first recheck post-op (usually two weeks) as well. We may recommend some orthopedic patients (especially those having cruciate repairs or femoral head and neck excisions) be treated several more times after surgery.

Most laser treatments take under five minutes; those with multiple sites may take a bit longer. Treatment is delivered via a non-invasive hand piece that is pressed into the area to be treated for a specified amount of time. No fur needs to be clipped, and there’s no danger of skin burns; one needs only to protect the eyes with special goggles (for patients as well as humans).

Therapeutic laser can be used in conjunction with any medications your pet may be on without side effects. Beneficial effects of laser will typically be seen within 12 to 24 hours after a treatment.