Dragon Lake Veterinary Hospital
2327 Larch Avenue, Quesnel, BC V2J 5T9
Phone: 250-747-1429 Fax: 250-747-1430 Email: dlvet@shaw.ca
Copyright. Ginger Langan. All rights reserved.
Laser Therapy
WHAT IS LASER THERAPY?
Laser therapy is a noninvasive treatment designed to reduce pain and inflammation, and to speed healing. This treatment
is quickly becoming standard of care in both human and veterinary medicine. Our staff members administer laser therapy
via a handpiece that emits a therapeutic infrared light in a fast, drug-free, and soothing treatment. The light can treat
surface problems such as wounds, as well as deeper structures, penetrating through fur, skin, and fat if necessary to reach
damaged tissue.
The therapeutic infrared light targets the mitochondria in damaged cells and stimulates them to regenerate and
return to optimal function. This regenerative process is called photobiomodulation (PBM). PBM does not impact normal
cells, but can help damaged cells to recover from injury faster. Laser therapy can be utilized as an adjunct to existing treatments, often reducing or replacing the need for pain medications.
WHAT ARE TREATMENTS LIKE?
Laser therapy treatments are fast and pain-free, making them well-tolerated by most pets. There is no clipping or shaving
required for the treatment area. When your pet arrives for therapy they will be situated in a comfortable position, and
may be outfitted with laser-safe doggles. You will also receive laser-safe eyewear to wear during treatment if you remain
with your pet during therapy.
Treatments take approximately 5 - 10 minutes depending on the size of the treatment area and the condition being
treated. During this treatment your pet will experience a soothing warmth that often relaxes patients, and sometimes
even makes them go to sleep!
Some conditions require several treatment sessions for optimal outcomes. When your pet’s condition is evaluated your
veterinarian will discuss their recommendations with you.
CAN LASER THERAPY HELP MY PET?
Laser therapy is an effective treatment for a wide variety of conditions including:
• Wounds • Arthritis
• Skin Conditions • Pain & Inflammation
• Pain Relief • Post-Operative Recovery
• Rehabilitation • Geriatric Care
• Lick Granulomas • Otitis
• Dental Conditions • Fractures
• Abdominal Disorders • And Much More!
Regenerative Therapies
DLVet is happy to be able to offer Laser Therapy, and PRP/PRF treatments
Platelet Rich Plasma &
Platelet Rich Fibrin
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) & Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF):
PRP and PRF are fancy, new sounding names for something the body has been doing naturally for eons! Whenever an injury is sustained, the body sends the necessary regenerative cells to the site of the wound. Think of PRP and PRF as giving a little boost to this process. The best part really is that this is a natural and safe process.
What can PRP and PRF help?
These therapies are helpful for osteoarthritis, wound care, and are emerging as the preferred treatment for tendon and ligament injuries. A common problem with these injuries is re-injury. Suspensory injuries treated with PRP tend to have less recurrence than those treated by other means such as traditional anti-inflammatories and stall rest.
What is the preparation procedure for PRP and PRF?
The coolest thing is that these solutions are made using the animal’s own cells. A blood sample is taken and then spun in a centrifuge to separate the red blood cells from the plasma which contains the white blood cells and platelets. This creates a concentrated solution of platelets which contain important growth factors for healing. All that’s left is to inject the serum into the injury site, much like getting a hock injection.
I’m still not sold, do you have any case studies?
Why yes! As our clients may already know, Dr. Langan herself is an avid horseback rider and competitor in endurance competition, so she knows first-hand about equine injuries. She has had great success in treating her own horses with this therapy. Furthermore, we’ve also used this technique at Dragon Lake Veterinary Hospital in our small animal practice. It’s Dr. Langan’s go-to for treating corneal ulceration (eyeball scratches - common in dogs who live with cats!)
Drop in during business hours, send us a message, or book an appointment if you think you have a good candidate for PRP/PRF therapy.