Cat and Dog Laser Therapy
and Other Pain Relief Options
in Town Center of Virginia Beach, VA

Pain can be a complex matter when it comes to our pets. First, animals try to hide their pain out of instinct, and in cases of chronic pain, they might get used to the discomfort and carry on as normally as they can. This makes it difficult for the average pet owner to tell if their pet really is in pain! However, pain can take a serious toll on your pet’s physical health, and it can affect their mental well-being, too.

At Independence Veterinary Hospital, we take pain relief for dogs and cats very seriously, because their health and quality of life depend on it. We offer cat and dog laser therapy, oral medication, and injectable pain relief options to benefit our patients here in Virginia Beach.

See the common signs of pain in dogs and cats below and contact us if you think your pet needs to see a vet. Call (757) 473-8560 or request an appointment by clicking below.

How Can I Tell If My Pet is in Pain?

Dogs and cats communicate to us as best they can, but when it comes to pain, it’s up to us to recognize the signs. Common signs of pain in pets include:

  • Decreased activity

  • Reluctance to move/difficulty getting up and lying down

  • Decrease in appetite

  • Increased irritability

  • Excessive licking/grooming of a specific area

  • Altered gait and/or posture (can appear hunched)

  • Whining/meowing more than usual

  • Change in sleeping patterns

  • Difficulty jumping up or down from the bed or sofa

  • Trembling

What is Laser Therapy for Dogs and Cats?

Laser therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free pain management technique that can help reduce pain and swelling and accelerate healing in pets. We often recommend this therapy as an integrative treatment, meaning we can add it to your pet’s existing pain management protocol. Laser therapy uses light energy to heal damaged tissues and speed up healing at the cellular level in a process called “photobiomodulation.” The treatment itself takes just a few minutes and can feel very soothing to your pet. It can be used for many acute and chronic conditions, including:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Intervertebral disc or joint disease
  • Lick granulomas
  • Inflammation and swelling from an injury or surgery
  • Lacerations, scrapes, burns, and bruising
  • Ear infections
  • Gingivitis

Other Pain Relief Options for Dogs and Cats

In addition to pet laser therapy, Independence Veterinary Hospital offers a variety of oral medications and injectables for pain relief. We may also recommend dietary and lifestyle changes to improve your pet’s comfort and mobility. Making adjustments in the home to reduce the risk of injury and support aching joints can go a long way toward making your pet feel better.

Pain can be stressful for dogs and cats, and lead to health issues and depression. If you are ever concerned that your companion might be in pain, don’t hesitate to let us know by calling [client-phone] or scheduling an appointment!