You may have heard about laser therapy for pets, but wondered if it really works. If your mate is sore, stiff, or slow to heal, this gentle red light could change everything.
Pet laser therapy is not the surgical laser that cuts tissue in a theatre. This is a red light laser, also called photobiomodulation therapy, used to support healing.
It works by shining safe red and near-infrared light into the body. That light helps cells repair faster, calm inflammation, and ease pain at its source.
We use it to assist wound healing after surgery, including dental extractions. Your pet may have already received it here and not even realised.
The red light reaches deep into the tissue without heat or damage. Inside the cells, it increases the production of ATP (the energy cells use to repair themselves) and improves blood flow.
More energy means faster repair of skin, muscle, and joint tissue. It also releases natural feel-good chemicals called endorphins, helping pain gently fade away.
This is why it’s different from medication that simply masks pain. It supports the body to heal itself in a natural, targeted way.
We use laser therapy after every surgery to help speed recovery. It can reduce swelling, support cleaner healing, and lower the risk of heavy scarring.
It’s also a powerful tool for managing osteoarthritis in ageing pets, especially those slowing down from old injuries or years of wear and tear. Older dogs and cats often move more freely after a series of treatments.
We commonly use it for conditions like:
It’s completely non-invasive and drug-free, which suits pets with chronic health concerns. That makes it helpful for animals who cannot tolerate long-term medications.
One of the biggest questions we are asked is whether it hurts. The answer is no, it’s completely painless.
Most pets experience a gentle warmth spreading through the area. It’s incredibly relaxing, and it’s not unusual for a nervous dog or tense cat to drift off for a little daydream during their session.
Sessions usually take between 2 and 10 minutes per area. You stay with your pet the entire time, offering comfort and reassurance.
They wear a cute pair of protective goggles, and so do you.
At Lilydale Vet Centre, our trained veterinary team delivers laser therapy with exceptional care and precision. Each treatment is carefully tailored to suit your pet’s size, condition, and specific needs.
We avoid using it over known tumours or during pregnancy as a precaution. Protective eyewear is always worn to keep sensitive eyes safe.
There are virtually no side effects when used correctly. That makes it a comforting option for long-term support.
If your pet is slowing down, struggling with stiffness, or healing from surgery, this may be worth exploring. Sometimes the missing piece is not more medicine, but the right kind of light.
We’re always happy to talk through whether this therapy suits your pet’s needs. Because when they feel better, you feel better too.
