Laser Therapy
We are pleased to offer our clients the option of having their pet’s surgery performed using a CO2 laser. A CO2 laser is good for a variety of surgical procedures; spays & neuters, tumour removal, soft palate resection and lick granulomas to name a few. The laser minimizes bleeding and seals nerve endings reducing post-operative swelling and pain and improves recovery. Ask any of our vets if the laser is a good option for your pet’s surgery.
What is a therapeutic laser and what are its benefits?
Laser therapy uses a beam of laser light to deeply penetrate tissue without damaging it. The laser light is delivered through a non-invasive handpiece to treat the affected area(s). Your pet may feel a gentle and soothing warmth. Most treatments take a matter of minutes to complete. Pets benefit from reduced inflammation and pain and show an increased range of motion and show mobility earlier in the recovery process.
Are lasers dangerous for dogs and are there any side effects?
Laser therapy is a very safe treatment for dogs. Our veterinarians and animal health technicians have undergone training to avoid any health risks for your dog. Laser energy is magnified exponentially by the lenses in eyes so there is a risk of retinal damage if the laser beam is directed towards the eyes. A protective covering of the eyes is required for all people in the room and the pet’s eyes are covered with a dark cloth whenever the laser is used near them. You are welcome to stay with your pet during their laser session as long as you wear our cool glasses!
What kind of lasers are used on pets?
There are 2 types of lasers used in our hospital. Cold laser (therapeutic laser) uses a beam of light to stimulate damaged cells to produce more energy. The overall cellular function is increased, allowing for rapid absorption of nutrients, elimination of wastes, and reproduction of new cells. The CO2 (carbon dioxide) surgical laser is the most efficient and dominant soft tissue surgical laser. In laser surgery, a highly focused laser beam can efficiently ablate (either vaporize or chip away) the living tissue. At the same time, it seals (welds) capillaries, small blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerve endings allowing for quicker recovery time.
