dog's knee being examined after surgery

Make Your Pet Comfortable with Laser Therapy

Does your pet suffer from stiff, aching joints? Do they have a wound that’s taking a long time to heal? Our K-Laser Class IV laser therapy unit at Arcata Animal Hospital is ideal for pain management and wound therapy. The laser uses specific red and near-infrared wavelengths to produce a therapeutic effect and promote quicker recovery following injury and/or surgery. With the help of the laser, we can treat various conditions including tendon or soft tissue injuries, hot spots, arthritis, and inflammation around post-surgical incision sites. We often treat senior pets with laser therapy, due to their susceptibility to arthritis, but we can provide treatment for pets of any age.

About the Treatment Session

The laser therapy procedure is painless, and we’ll work with you to determine the best laser therapy treatment plan for your four-legged family member. This involves targeting areas that are most in need of repair, and identifying the pulse frequencies needed to stimulate cell function and healing. Multiple laser therapy sessions are necessary for us to provide your loved one with the best results, and we’ll accommodate your busy schedule to make that possible.

Laser therapy is completely safe, and has no known side effects. The laser produces a gentle warming sensation on contact, so your pet may even find the procedure to be relaxing!

Signs of Pain or Discomfort in Your Pet

It’s not always obvious when your pet is experiencing pain. They can’t tell us when they’re hurting—we just have to know. Here are some symptoms to look out for:

  • Restlessness
  • Trembling
  • Decreased appetite
  • Trouble getting into car or going up and down the stairs
  • Limping
  • Sitting or lying down in abnormal posture
  • Vocalizations such as whimpering, whining or groaning
  • Constant licking or biting at area
  • Difficulty sitting down or getting up
  • Lack of grooming
golden retriever running outdoors

If your pet is showing any of these signs, reach out to us at 707-822-2402 for an evaluation. They may be a prime candidate for laser therapy here at Arcata Animal Hospital, or may require an alternative course of treatment. Our caring and knowledgeable team will develop a treatment plan dedicated to your pet’s specific needs.