OAKLAND PARK, Fla., Aug. 26, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Oakland Park Animal Hospital announced that they have acquired a new cold laser machine for treating arthritis, inflammation and soft tissue injuries. The new machine uses a Class IV laser to penetrate deep beneath a pet's skin. The energy from this laser increases blood flow and stimulates internal healing. The laser also helps to reduce pain signals and decrease nerve sensitivity. The veterinarian has used cold laser therapy to treat pets in the Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, Lazy Lake and Lauderdale Lakes communities.
Oakland Park veterinarians Dr. Spencer Ratnoff and Dr. Gary Glickman announced that their practice now offers cold laser therapy. The veterinary hospital recently acquired a new machine to administer this treatment.
"Cold laser therapy is truly on the cutting-edge of veterinary care, and we are thrilled to offer this treatment as part of our Oakland Park veterinary services," said Dr. Ratnoff. "Laser therapy is an alternative to orthopedic surgery in older pets that provides immediate pain relief and enhanced mobility. We plan to use this treatment for a variety of conditions, including skin infections, skin disease, ear infections and hot spots."
According to the veterinarians, the Class IV laser is able to penetrate deep beneath an animal's skin. This deep penetration allows energy from the laser to stimulate blood flow and internal healing. The laser also decreases nerve sensitivity and reduces inflammation, which helps manage pain.
"We will be providing cold laser therapy for pets who are suffering from arthritis or other pain," said Dr. Glickman. "In some cases, after just one treatment session, there is a marked decrease in pain. After a full series of ten treatments, some pets are able to walk and move without pain."
The veterinary hospital recommends laser therapy treatments for older dogs that are not good candidates for orthopedic surgeries. Cold laser therapy can be used to treat dogs and cats of any age, depending on their health condition.
For example, the veterinarians may recommend laser therapy to address a lick granuloma, a condition in which dogs chronically lick themselves. This causes chronic skin lesions on the limbs. Laser therapy improves the appearance of skin lesions and promotes healing.
The veterinarians typically recommend a series of eight to ten treatment sessions. A session may last between ten and thirty minutes, depending on the animal's needs. Larger dogs with widespread arthritis may require longer treatments than small animals with limited skin problems.
"We tailor every treatment session to meet a pet's needs," said Dr. Ratnoff. "While relief may be noticeable after just one session, we recommend completing a full series for maximum benefit and results."
The practice provides comprehensive animal wellness care. Services include annual exams, vaccinations, spay and neuter operations, and pet surgery. The veterinarians also care for pocket pets and exotic pets. Pet owners may learn more by contacting the hospital.