Pet Wounds
Even the most laid-back and relaxed pet can have an accident resulting in a cut, graze, or injury that necessitates first aid. However, even minor wounds can cause serious infections, so if you are unsure whether to take your pet to the vet, it is always best to err on the side of caution. Taking your pet to the vet as soon as a wound appears could save your furry friend a lot of pain and you a lot of money in the long run.
When should you seek veterinary care for a pet wound?
While some cat or dog wounds may be cared for by pet parents, some should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Wounds that require veterinary care include:
- Animal bites (these may look small but become infected very quickly if not treated)
- Skin that has been torn away from the flesh below (often occurs during fights)
- A wound with a large object lodged in it (i.e., a piece of glass or nail)
- Wounds caused by a car accident or other trauma
- Injuries around the eyes, head or that lead to breathing difficulties
When else might my pet have a wound?
Sometimes, your dog or cat has a wound caused by veterinary care, like surgery. We refer to these types of wounds as incisions. These wounds will take time to heal and must also be monitored by your vet during follow-up visits.
Both wounds caused by injuries and those from incisions will heal over time, but techniques like laser therapy can benefit the healing process and speed up recovery. Below, we discuss laser therapy for incision healing in more detail.
What is laser therapy for pets?
Laser therapy is a non-invasive medical treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular activity and promote healing. This therapeutic technique has become popular in veterinary medicine due to its effectiveness in treating various conditions in pets, including post-surgical recovery, wound healing, and pain management.
The Benefits of Laser Therapy for Wound Healing
Laser therapy is increasingly common in veterinary medicine and has numerous benefits for surgical wound healing in dogs and cats. These include:
Pain Reduction
One of the immediate benefits of post-op laser therapy for dogs and cats is its ability to reduce pain. Laser therapy emits specific wavelengths of light that penetrate the skin and tissues. This light interacts with cells, enhancing their metabolic activity (improving cell function and overall tissue health) and promoting the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers. As a result, pets experience a significant reduction in pain and discomfort, which is particularly beneficial after surgeries such as spaying or neutering and other invasive procedures.
Accelerated Tissue Repair
Laser therapy for dogs and cats after surgery can speed up the tissue repair process. The laser light stimulates cellular activity and promotes the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the energy currency of cells. This increase in cellular energy can enhance the regeneration of damaged tissues, leading to faster healing of surgical incisions. For pet owners, this means less time worrying about their furry friend’s recovery and more time enjoying their companionship.
Enhanced Wound Healing
Laser treatment after spaying, neutering, or other surgical procedures can greatly improve wound healing. Laser therapy enhances blood circulation and oxygen supply to the affected area, which are crucial factors in the healing process. The improved circulation not only delivers more nutrients and oxygen to the wound, but also helps remove waste products such as carbon dioxide, urea, and lactic acid. By removing these waste products, the body can reduce inflammation, leading to faster and more efficient healing.
Improved Nerve Function
Laser therapy promotes and improves nerve function. Surgical procedures can occasionally lead to temporary nerve damage or inflammation, which can cause pain and discomfort. Post-op laser therapy for dogs and cats can help reduce inflammation and stimulate nerve regeneration, restoring normal function and reducing the likelihood of chronic pain issues.
Boosted Vascular Activity
Laser therapy for wound healing also positively impacts vascular activity. The treatment induces vasodilation, which widens blood vessels. This process enhances blood flow to the healing tissues, providing them with essential nutrients and oxygen. Improved vascular activity ensures the surgical site receives ample blood supply, which is crucial for optimal healing and recovery.
Warm Laser Therapy at Oak Glen Animal Hospital in Yucaipa
Our veterinary team uses warm laser therapy as a non-invasive treatment option for painful inflammatory conditions in dogs and cats. Laser therapy is a painless procedure that involves moving a handheld laser wand back and forth over the part of your pet's body that has sustained an injury or is causing health issues.
With warm laser therapy, your pet will feel a pleasant warm feeling in the area being treated, likely finding it quite enjoyable. Laser therapy sessions at our veterinary hospital generally last about 20 minutes. The number and frequency of these treatments will depend on your pet's specific healthcare needs. Speak with our team to learn more.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.