Therapeutic Laser Treatments in Harveys Lake
A non-invasive, drug-free therapy that helps dogs and cats recover faster and feel better.
What is Therapeutic Laser Treatment for Pets?
Therapeutic laser treatment uses focused red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular energy production in injured or inflamed tissue — a process called photobiomodulation. It reduces pain and swelling, accelerates healing, and is used for arthritis, soft tissue injuries, wound care, and post-surgical recovery. Sessions are painless and typically last 5 to 20 minutes.
How Cold and Red Light Laser Therapy Works
Photobiomodulation Stimulates Natural Cellular Repair
Laser light at specific wavelengths penetrates skin and soft tissue without heat or cutting. The light is absorbed by mitochondria inside cells, increasing production of ATP — the energy cells use to repair themselves. This boost in cellular energy speeds up the natural healing process and reduces the release of chemicals that cause inflammation and pain. Think of it as giving your pet's cells a jumpstart so they can do their job more efficiently.
The Treatment Is Non-Invasive and Drug-Free
No incisions, needles, or medications are involved. The device is held close to the skin and the pet typically experiences only a gentle warmth during the session. Because no drugs are used, there are no systemic side effects, making it a suitable complement to other treatments the pet may already be receiving.
Conditions We Treat with Laser Therapy
Therapeutic laser treatment is suited for a range of acute and chronic conditions. Owners wondering whether their pet qualifies should review the list below and call the clinic to discuss.
Arthritis and joint pain
Reduces chronic joint inflammation and helps older dogs and cats move more comfortably day to day.
Post-surgical recovery
Accelerates tissue repair after procedures, decreasing swelling and helping pets return to normal activity sooner.
Wound healing
Promotes faster closure and reduces infection risk for lacerations, abrasions, and slow-healing skin wounds.
Soft tissue injuries
Addresses muscle strains, ligament sprains, and bruising caused by everyday activity or sudden trauma.
Chronic pain management
Provides ongoing relief for conditions where long-term medication use is a concern, with no systemic side effects.
What a Laser Therapy Session Looks Like
During the Visit
A typical session lasts between 5 and 20 minutes depending on the condition being treated and the size of the area. The veterinarian or technician holds a small handheld device close to the skin and moves it slowly over the treatment site. Most pets are calm throughout and many actually relax during the session.
How Many Sessions Are Needed
The number of sessions varies by condition — acute injuries may respond well after 3 to 6 treatments, while chronic conditions like arthritis often benefit from an ongoing maintenance schedule. The team at Harveys Lake Veterinary Clinic will recommend a treatment plan at the initial assessment and adjust it based on how the pet responds.
What to Watch for at Home
After each session, owners may notice their pet moving more freely or showing improved comfort within 12 to 24 hours. Some animals take a few sessions before a visible change is apparent. Keep notes on your pet's activity, appetite, and comfort level between visits — this feedback helps the veterinarian fine-tune the plan.
There is no downtime after treatment — pets can return to their normal routine immediately.
Your Questions About Laser Therapy, Answered
Is laser therapy painful for dogs and cats?
Laser therapy is painless. Most pets show no reaction to the treatment at all and many become noticeably relaxed during sessions. The device produces a gentle warmth at the skin surface but generates no heat deep in tissue and causes no discomfort. No sedation or restraint is needed in the vast majority of cases.Which animals are eligible for therapeutic laser treatment?
Laser therapy is used most often in dogs and cats, but it can be applied to a range of companion animals. Eligibility depends on the condition being treated and the animal's overall health. We assess each patient individually at an initial consultation before recommending a treatment plan, so the best first step is to call us and describe what you're seeing.How soon will I see results in my pet?
Some pets show improvement after the first or second session, particularly for acute conditions like recent injuries or post-surgical swelling. Chronic conditions — arthritis, for example — typically require several sessions before a consistent change is visible. Keeping notes on your pet's behavior between visits helps us track progress accurately.Can laser therapy be used alongside other treatments my pet is already receiving?
Yes. Laser therapy is frequently combined with medications, physical rehabilitation, or other veterinary treatments because it carries no systemic side effects and does not interfere with most drug therapies. Always tell us about every medication and supplement your pet is currently taking so we can confirm the combination is appropriate.
Ask Us If Your Pet Qualifies
Call us at (570) 639-2345 to find out whether therapeutic laser treatment is right for your pet. Our team will walk you through the options and help you decide on next steps.
Learn about our pet wellness exams and vaccines or explore all ways to reach us on our contact page.
