If your furry friend is limping, stiff, or recovering from surgery, you’re not alone in wanting a faster, gentler way to help them heal. At Firth Veterinary Hospital, our London, ON veterinary team proudly offers laser therapy for pets—a modern, noninvasive treatment designed to reduce pain, speed healing, and improve comfort without medication or side effects.
Whether your pup is struggling with arthritis or your cat needs help bouncing back after an injury, this simple, soothing technology can make a big difference in their recovery and quality of life. Let’s explore how it works, what it feels like for your pet, and why veterinarians across Canada are using it to promote faster, more comfortable healing.
What Is Laser Therapy for Pets?
Laser therapy, also known as cold laser therapy, uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cells, increase circulation, and reduce inflammation. It’s a pain-free, drug-free treatment that helps the body’s natural healing processes work more efficiently.
When applied to an injured or sore area, the laser light penetrates deep into tissues without damaging them. This triggers a biological response known as photobiomodulation, which enhances cellular energy and promotes regeneration. In other words, it encourages the body to repair itself—naturally and safely.
At Firth Veterinary Hospital, we use laser therapy for both acute injuries and chronic conditions in dogs and cats. Each session is tailored to your pet’s individual needs, ensuring comfort and maximum benefit.
Laser therapy for pets can help with:
- Arthritis and joint pain
- Muscle sprains or strains
- Post-surgical recovery
- Wound healing
- Ear infections and inflammation
- Dental and oral discomfort
- Back pain or mobility issues
Laser therapy is often used to treat arthritis in dogs. You can read our prior blog about this here. Or, go here to learn more about our laser therapy options here.
How Laser Therapy Works
Think of laser therapy as a gentle light massage for your pet’s cells. The laser emits focused light energy that increases oxygen flow, improves circulation, and encourages faster tissue repair.
The process is completely painless—most pets relax during treatment, and some even fall asleep. Because the laser produces soothing warmth, many animals find the experience calming.
The main effects of laser therapy include:
- Reduced inflammation: Less swelling means less pressure and pain.
- Pain relief: Light energy releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.
- Accelerated healing: Increased blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissue.
- Improved flexibility: Regular treatments can loosen stiff joints and improve mobility.
Results often appear after the first session, though chronic conditions may require a series of treatments for full benefit.
Laser Physiotherapy for Dogs: A Gentle Solution for Active Companions
Dogs are masters of enthusiasm—and sometimes, their energy leads to strains, sprains, or age-related aches. Whether your canine buddy is an energetic puppy or a senior dog dealing with arthritis, laser therapy offers an excellent way to relieve discomfort and promote recovery.
Common conditions treated with laser therapy for dogs include:
- Hip dysplasia and arthritis
- Surgical incisions
- Soft tissue injuries
- Back or neck pain
- Lick granulomas (skin irritation from excessive licking)
Because it’s drug-free, laser therapy is ideal for pets who can’t tolerate certain medications or for owners seeking a more natural approach to pet pain management. At Firth Veterinary Hospital, our veterinarians often recommend combining laser therapy with other supportive treatments like weight management, gentle exercise, and joint supplements for a well-rounded care plan.
What to Expect During a Session
A typical laser therapy appointment lasts about 10–20 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area. Your pet rests comfortably while a technician moves a handheld laser wand over the targeted region. Protective eyewear is provided for everyone in the room (yes, even for your furry patient).
There’s no sedation, no shaving, and no recovery time needed. Most pets walk out feeling relaxed and refreshed. You may notice your dog moving more easily, getting up with less stiffness, or showing renewed interest in walks and play after just a few treatments.
Laser As Physiotherapy For Cats
Cats are experts at hiding discomfort, which can make pain management challenging. Laser therapy can also be great physiotherapy for cats. It provides a gentle, stress-free way to help your feline friend feel better without pills or injections.
Our team at Firth Veterinary Hospital uses laser therapy to address a wide range of cat health issues, including arthritis, wounds, post-dental pain, and inflammatory conditions.
Laser therapy benefits for cats include:
- Reduced pain and swelling after surgery or dental procedures.
- Faster wound healing for cuts or abscesses.
- Improved mobility for arthritic or senior cats.
- Enhanced comfort for chronic conditions like stomatitis or sinus inflammation.
Cats generally tolerate laser therapy extremely well. The quiet, soothing warmth helps them relax, and many start to purr during treatment—a sure sign of approval.
How Often Does My Pet Need Laser Therapy?
The number of treatments depends on the condition and severity. Acute injuries often improve after one or two sessions, while chronic issues like arthritis or hip dysplasia may require multiple visits over several weeks.
Your veterinarian at Firth Veterinary Hospital will design a customized treatment schedule based on your pet’s condition, age, and response to therapy. Many pet parents choose ongoing maintenance sessions once symptoms improve to support long-term comfort and mobility.
Typical treatment schedule:
- Acute injuries: 2–3 times per week for 1–2 weeks.
- Chronic conditions: Weekly or biweekly treatments for 4–6 weeks, then maintenance as needed.
Each session builds on the last, gradually reducing inflammation and restoring normal tissue function.
Combining Laser Therapy with Other Treatments
Laser therapy integrates beautifully with other veterinary care. It enhances healing after surgery, boosts the effects of physical therapy, and complements medication-based pain management.
For example, after an orthopedic procedure or dental cleaning, laser therapy accelerates healing and reduces swelling. It can also help manage chronic conditions like arthritis alongside supplements or mobility aids.
Always discuss any existing medications or treatments with your veterinarian—our team at Firth Veterinary Hospital will ensure your pet’s care plan is both safe and effective.
Safety and Side Effects
One of the greatest advantages of laser therapy for pets is its safety profile. It’s noninvasive, painless, and suitable for animals of all ages and breeds. Unlike some medications, there’s no risk of stomach upset or organ strain.
The main precaution involves protecting eyes from direct exposure to the laser beam, which is why protective goggles are worn during every session. Side effects are extremely rare, and most pets leave feeling more comfortable than when they arrived.
Fun Fact: Laser Therapy Was First Used in Human Medicine
Laser therapy has been used in human medicine for decades to treat joint pain, inflammation, and sports injuries. Its success in people led veterinarians to adapt the technology for animals, where it’s now used worldwide to improve pet pain management and recovery.
The American Animal Hospital Association has an interesting article on laser therapy, which you can read here. PetMD also did a piece on laser therapy in dogs. Click here to read that one.
FAQ: Laser Therapy for Pets in London, ON
How soon will I see results from laser therapy?
Many pets show improvement after the first session. Chronic issues often need several treatments before optimal results appear, as healing builds progressively over time.
Is laser therapy safe for older pets?
Yes! Laser therapy is gentle and ideal for senior pets who may not tolerate medications well. It improves circulation, reduces stiffness, and enhances comfort without side effects.
Will my pet need to be sedated?
No sedation is required. Laser therapy is completely noninvasive, and most pets find the warmth soothing and relaxing.
How long do the effects last?
Relief can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the condition. Ongoing sessions help maintain comfort for chronic pain or degenerative joint disease.
Does laser therapy replace other treatments?
Not necessarily. Laser therapy works best as part of a comprehensive plan that may include medication, diet, or physical therapy. Your veterinarian in London will recommend the best combination for your pet.
Visit Our London, ON Veterinary Clinic for Laser Therapy for Pets
At Firth Veterinary Hospital in London, ON, we’re proud to offer cutting-edge, compassionate care for dogs and cats. Our veterinarians use laser therapy for pets to reduce pain, enhance healing, and support overall wellbeing—all without invasive procedures or harsh side effects.
If you’ve been searching for a gentle, effective way to help your pet recover or manage chronic pain, we’d love to help. Contact Firth Veterinary Hospital today to schedule your pet’s laser therapy consultation and see how modern veterinary care can make healing faster, safer, and more comfortable.
This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment tailored to your pet’s needs.
Are you looking up vets in London, Ontario? You’ve found us! To learn more about our animal clinic, visit our Services page here. You can also find out about our Wellness and Vaccinations page here.
