Photobiomodulation Laser Therapy (PBMT) for Dogs and Cats
A Gentle Touch of Light for Comfort, Healing, and Renewal
Laser therapy can actually accomplish several things to improve your pet’s quality of life, including:
- Reducing pain
- Decreasing inflammation and swelling
- Increasing circulation
- Speeding up healing
Together, these benefits can help your pet feel more comfortable and more energized. Our hope is that over time, your pet will gradually need fewer and fewer laser treatments
What Can be Treated with Laser Therapy?
Laser therapy works best in conjunction with other treatments to improve a pet’s condition. Whether your companion is recovering from major surgery or battling osteoarthritis, our therapeutic laser can provide additional, and much-needed, healing and pain relief.
Some of the many conditions we treat include:
- Post-Operative pain and accelerating incision site healing
- Arthritis
- Back/spinal issues
- end stage arthritis/Osteoarthritis
- Hip/Elbow Dysplasia
- Bone fractures
- Back pain/disc herniation
- Ligament and tendon injuries
- Muscle pain and spasms
- Wound Healing
- Dermatological conditions
- Bites, cuts, and burns
- Lick granulomas
- Ear infections
- Gingivitis and dental pain
- …and more
If your pet is currently being treated for cancer or we suspect they might have cancer, we cannot use laser therapy as part of their treatment, because it might accelerate the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Curious About The Science Behind Laser Therapy?
Laser therapy has been shown in a randomized, double-blinded controlled trial to reduce pain and improve quality of life in dogs with osteoarthritis — often producing longer-lasting results than anti-inflammatory medication alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Laser Therapy
What is light therapy?
Laser therapy, also known as Photobiomodulation (PBMT), is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that helps reduce inflammation, relieve discomfort, and support natural tissue healing. By using therapeutic red and near-infrared light, this advanced technology enhances circulation and cellular repair.
Treatments are gentle, produce minimal heat, and are comfortable for most pets. In our practice, we utilize medical-grade LED and Class 3B laser systems for precise, controlled care.
What does a PBMT/laser therapy session look like?
During treatment, a small handheld probe is placed directly on the skin or held slightly above the area being treated. The laser’s power level is carefully adjusted and guided in specific motions or patterns to reach the targeted tissues effectively.
Because laser therapy stimulates circulation, pets may feel a pleasant warmth in the treated area, but there is no pain, burning, or electrical sensation. It’s a soothing process that most pets tolerate very well.
What kind of PBMT device does Dr. Shah use?
Dr. Shah uses Class IV laser by Companion Animal Health
Treatments are gentle, produce minimal heat, and are comfortable for most pets. In our practice, we utilize medical-grade LED and Class 3B laser systems for precise, controlled care
How quickly can I expect to see results from laser therapy for my pet
Some pets respond quickly and show improvement right after the first few sessions, while others experience gradual relief depending on the severity of arthritis, injury, or chronic pain. Dr. Shah will guide you on what results to expect for your pet’s specific situation.
Is PBMT therapy safe?
Yes—when performed correctly, it is very safe.
Safety measures include:
- Protective eyewear for pets and humans
- Avoiding use over cancerous areas (unless specifically indicated)
- Proper dosing by trained professionals like Dr. Shah and her team
Can PBMT therapy replace medication(s)?
Not always, but it can:
Reduce the need for pain medications- Frequency/dosing of medication(s) may be adjusted/decreased as we progress with our sessions.
Though case dependent, we may be able to take pet off medication(s).
Be part of a multimodal (integrative) treatment plan.
Why choose mobile laser therapy?
- Less stress for pets (no clinic visit)
- Ideal for senior, anxious, or mobility-limited pets
- Convenient for owners
- Allows treatment in a familiar, calm environment
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Book A Consultation
Let’s schedule a consultation to talk through your concerns, understand your pet’s unique needs, and create a thoughtful care plan together.