Red light therapy, also known as photo bio-modulation therapy, is quiet beneficial for dogs which help to improve their health and wellness.
It is a non-invasive treatment that involves exposing the dog’s body to low-level red or near-infrared light. Red light therapy has been reported to help with various conditions in dogs, including wound healing, arthritis, muscle soreness, inflammation and many more.
Below are some of the steps to use red light therapy on dogs:
Choose the right device:
Select a red light therapy device that is specifically designed for use on animals. Look for a device that emits red or near-infrared light in the appropriate wave lengths (typically around 600-850 nanometres).
Ensure the device is safe for use on pets and has appropriate intensity settings. When choosing for the right devices, one must consider few factors in mind and must prioritize the safety features, the quality and durability, costing, easy to use and lastly must be designed specifically for dogs.
Consult with a veterinarian:
Before starting any form of therapy, it’s always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian who can assess your dog’s specific condition and provide guidance on the appropriate use of red light therapy. Do a thorough check-up of your dog’s physical condition before the red light therapy.
It is very important for everyone to share the medical history or the on-going medications of the dog with the vet. However, it becomes safe and effective when the treatment goes under the proper guidance of a veterinarian.
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Prepare the area:
Find a quiet and comfortable area where you can perform the therapy session. Ensure the dog is relaxed and comfortable, either lying down or sitting.
Follow the instructions:
Read and follow the instructions provided with your red light therapy device. Typically, you will need to position the device a few inches away from the targeted area on your dog’s body. Treatments can range from a few minutes to 15-30 minutes, depending on the condition being treated. Start with shorter sessions and gradually increase the duration if your dog tolerates it well.
Move the device: If you’re treating a larger area, such as the back or a joint, you may need to move the red light therapy device around to cover the entire area evenly.
Slowly move the device in a circular or back-and-forth motion, ensuring that each part of the targeted area receives exposure to the light.
Be consistent: For the best results, it’s important to be consistent with red light therapy treatments. Follow the recommended frequency and duration of sessions as advised by your veterinarian or the device manufacturer.
It may take several sessions over a period of weeks or months to see significant improvement. Being consistent use of the therapy is a major factor in how the treatment would be effective for the dog.
Monitor your dog:
While red light therapy is generally considered safe, closely monitor your dog during the treatment session. If your dog shows any signs of discomfort or if the targeted area becomes more irritated or inflamed, discontinue the treatment and consult your veterinarian.
This should always be remembered red light therapy should not be used as a substitute for proper veterinary care. Always consult with a veterinarian to determine if red light therapy is appropriate for your dog’s specific condition and to receive proper guidance on its usage.