As a small animal veterinarian and practice owner, I am constantly searching for the most up-to-date treatment options and therapies for our pets. I purchased a Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Cold Laser, and it has revolutionized pain management, treatment of inflammation and wound healing for my patients. We are overwhelmed with positive responses from patients using this new form of treatment.
What Is Cold Laser Therapy?
Cold laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), uses wavelengths of light to interact with tissue, and it is proven to help accelerate the body’s healing process. The laser beam is moved over the skin so that the light energy (photons) penetrates the tissue. There it interacts with various molecules (chromophores) and causes different biological reactions, known as photobiostimulation, which offers pain relief for dogs and cats from pain related to inflammation.
What Is MLS Laser Therapy Used For?
Laser therapy for dogs and cats is used to treat pain and inflammation as well as accelerate wound healing. We use our laser on so many different conditions, including cat and dog arthritis, tendonitis, post-surgical swelling, inflamed ears, lick granulomas, hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, gingivitis, sinusitis and lameness.
What Are the Benefits of MLS Laser Therapy?
- Reduces inflammation or swelling
- Reduces pain
- Repairs tissue and promotes cell growth
- Improves blood flow
- Increases metabolism
- Stimulates trigger and acupuncture points
- Reduces scar formation
- Improves nerve function
- Helps control the body’s immune response
- Quickens wound healing
What Is the Frequency and Timing?
The recommended treatment protocol for pain relief for dogs and cats suffering from arthritis and wound healing is six treatments in a 3-week period, followed by maintenance treatments of one treatment per month. Every case is different, and each pet receives his or her own treatment plan, but those are the general guidelines. The treatment involves holding the laser 8 inches from the affected site for anywhere from 1-3 minutes, depending on the condition being treated. Cold laser therapy for dogs and cats is completely non-invasive, and many of my patients enjoy the treatment.
What Is the Cost?
The price of one treatment is around $35.00, and many veterinarian offices will offer packages of 6 treatments for around $175. The treatment is affordable and helps my clients save money, because they spend less on pain medications and other treatment options.
I have seen such great results with this form of treatment. Cold laser therapy for dogs and cats reduces the amount of pain medication I prescribe for my patients. It is quick, completely non-invasive (no needles or holding pets down) and most importantly, it is helping my patients feel better. I have pet parents showing me videos of their dogs jumping onto the couch or getting into the back of their car after receiving treatment, following years of being unable to jump or run.
By Dr. Alison Birken, owner and DVM of Victoria Park Animal Hospital.
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