At Willowbrook Veterinary Hospital, we’re proud to offer laser therapy for pets - a safe, non-invasive treatment that helps dogs and cats heal faster, feel more comfortable, and improve overall quality of life.
Laser therapy uses light energy to penetrate tissues and stimulate natural healing at the cellular level. This process, called photobiomodulation, promotes increased circulation, reduces inflammation, and triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers. 
How Laser Therapy Helps Pets
Laser therapy can benefit pets with a wide range of conditions. Here’s a closer look at how it works in different scenarios, with real-world examples:
Acute Injuries
Laser therapy helps decrease pain, swelling, and inflammation while accelerating tissue repair. It’s especially useful for:
- Sprains and strains: Active dogs that jump or run frequently can recover faster.
- Wounds and abrasions: Shallow cuts or post-surgical incisions heal more efficiently.
- Post-surgical recovery: Orthopedic surgeries, like ACL repairs, benefit from faster tissue repair and reduced discomfort.
Chronic Pain & Arthritis
For pets with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or joint pain, laser therapy can significantly improve mobility and comfort.
- Reduces joint inflammation and stiffness
- Enhances range of motion
- Allows pets to return to normal activities
Example: A senior dog with elbow arthritis may regain interest in walks after a few sessions, reducing reliance on long-term pain medications.
Skin Infections & Hot Spots
Laser therapy accelerates healing for:
- Wounds and lacerations
- Bacterial skin infections
- Hot spots from allergies or irritation
Increased circulation delivers nutrients to affected tissues and supports the immune response, leading to faster relief and less discomfort.
Ear Infections
Laser therapy helps pets with otitis (ear infections) by:
- Reducing swelling and inflammation in the ear canal
- Alleviating pain and itching
- Supporting faster healing alongside prescribed medications
Pets with chronic ear infections often show improved comfort and less scratching after a series of laser sessions.
Inflammation of Any Kind
Laser therapy can target inflammation throughout the body, including:
- Soft tissue injuries (muscle strains, ligament sprains)
- Gum disease and oral inflammation
- Tendonitis or ligament injuries
By addressing inflammation at the cellular level, pets experience faster healing, reduced pain, and improved function, allowing them to return to normal activities sooner.
Key Benefits of Laser Therapy
Laser therapy offers a wide range of advantages for dogs and cats of all ages. Beyond being non-invasive and pain-free, it provides measurable improvements in comfort, healing, and overall wellbeing:
- Drug-Free Pain Relief – Stimulates the release of endorphins, helping pets feel more comfortable without extra medication.
- Reduces Inflammation Naturally – Targets tissues at the cellular level, decreasing swelling from arthritis, injuries, or chronic conditions.
- Accelerates Healing – Improves circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to injured or inflamed areas.
- Safe for Pets of All Ages – Gentle enough for puppies, senior pets, and those with chronic conditions.
- Improves Mobility and Function – Reduces stiffness, allowing pets to resume normal activity, play, and exercise.
- Enhances Quality of Life – Less pain and improved comfort lead to happier, more active pets.
- Complementary to Veterinary Care – Works alongside medications, physical therapy, or other treatments to enhance overall recovery and outcomes.
Bottom line: Laser therapy is more than just a treatment—it’s a comprehensive tool that addresses pain, inflammation, and healing in a safe, drug-free way.
What to Expect During Treatment
Laser therapy sessions are typically quick and stress-free, usually lasting 5–15 minutes depending on the area being treated.
- Most pets relax and enjoy the gentle warmth of the laser.
- A treatment plan may include multiple sessions to achieve optimal results.
- The number of treatments depends on your pet’s condition, response to therapy, and overall healing goals.
Your veterinarian will work with you to develop a customized plan that maximizes your pet’s comfort and recovery.
Is Laser Therapy Right for Your Pet? 
Laser therapy may be an excellent option for many dogs and cats, but it’s important to evaluate your pet’s specific needs and health conditions:
- Acute Injuries or Post-Surgical Recovery – Accelerates healing, reduces pain, and supports tissue repair.
- Chronic Pain and Arthritis – Improves mobility, reduces stiffness, and enhances daily comfort.
- Skin and Ear Conditions – Promotes faster healing for hot spots, bacterial infections, wounds, and ear inflammation.
- Inflammation of Any Kind – Helps reduce pain and accelerate healing wherever inflammation is present.
Considerations Before Treatment:
Your veterinarian will evaluate your pet’s overall health, age, and specific condition to determine whether laser therapy is appropriate.
Some conditions may require combination therapy – laser therapy alongside medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle modifications - for the best outcomes.
Regular sessions may be recommended depending on the severity and type of condition.
Tip: If your pet shows pain, stiffness, decreased activity, or slow recovery from injury, ask your veterinarian whether laser therapy could help. Early intervention can lead to faster results and improved comfort, keeping your pet active and happy.
Laser therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and effective option for supporting your pet’s healing and comfort. By reducing pain, controlling inflammation, and promoting faster recovery, it can make a significant difference in your dog or cat’s quality of life.
At Willowbrook Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you determine if laser therapy is right for your pet and to provide compassionate, advanced care every step of the way.
Have questions or need to make an appointment? Call or Text: (503) 968-2911 or