Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center & Urgent Care

What is laser therapy?

Photobiomodulation and Photobiostimulation are the scientific terms for Laser's effect on tissue. Deep- penetrating photons from the laser influence cell chemistry in a variety of beneficial ways. In addition, the infrared wavelengths create a warm sensation in your pet's body at the precise location requiring treatment. Treatment time, power and laser pulse frequency are based on your pet's individual condition and body size.

What conditions can be treated?

Ulcerations and open wounds
Sprains and strains
Post-surgical and soft tissue trauma
Neuromuscular disease
Gingivitis
Lick Granulomas
Degenerative Joint Disease
Surgical incision healing
Muscle, ligament and tendon injuries
Pododermatitis
Back pain
Acute and Chronic Ear Infections
Hot Spots
Arthritis
Degenerative Disc Disease
Anal Gland Infections

What to expect

No sedation is required and the experience is usually pleasant and comforting to the animal. Pets do not need to have their hair clipped either.

Although improvement is often seen after the first visit, most patients require several treatments (3 to 8) for greatest benefit. For most conditions, we recommend a multi-visit treatment plan. Treatments vary in length, but most sites require 2 to 8 minutes. A majority of patients exhibit greater comfort and mobility within 12 to 24 hours after a laser treatment.

Laser therapy treatments are cumulative in nature. Therefore each additional treatment continues to improve your pet's condition. The length and frequency of treatments varies with your pet's condition. If you want to participate in your pet's treatment which is encouraged we will have you and your pet wear protective glasses when the treatment is being performed.

A sample treatment schedule is as follows:

Every other day for one week (3 total)

Twice the second week (2 total)

Once the third week (1 total)

Boosters as needed

We will recommend a treatment plan specific to your pet's condition after a consultation and physical examination. The cost of most treatments is $45- 43 each. Multiple joint treatments can cost up to $65 each.

Where is it beneficial?

Clinical studies and trials of laser therapy technology indicate the following beneficial effects of laser light therapy on tissues and cells: .

Anti-Pain [Analgesic]. Laser therapy has a high beneficial effect on nerve cells which block pain transmitted by these cells to the brain and which decreases nerve sensitivity. Also, due to less inflammation, there is less edema and less pain. Another pain blocking mechanism involves the production of high levels of pain killing chemicals such as endorphins from the brain.

Trigger Points and Acupuncture Points. Laser therapy stimulates muscle trigger points and acupuncture points on a non-invasive basis providing musculoskeletal pain relief

Accelerated Tissue Repair and Cell Growth.