Hospital services

Laser therapy

Therapeutic laser for dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, reptiles, and small mammals

Paws & Claws Medical Center offers therapeutic laser treatment, also called photobiomodulation, as one part of a treatment plan. It is not a stand-alone cure and it is not a substitute for a diagnosis. Your pet gets an exam first. Then we decide whether laser fits the problem, and what else the problem needs.

What it is

Therapeutic laser uses specific wavelengths of light aimed at the tissue being treated. The goal is to support the body’s own healing and to help manage pain and inflammation. It does not cut or burn, and it is not the same as a surgical laser.

When we may recommend it

Your veterinarian decides case by case. Laser is most often discussed alongside other care for:

• Healing after surgery, including incision care
• Wounds, together with proper wound care and any medication your pet needs
• Arthritis and other joint or muscle pain, as part of a multi-modal pain plan
• Selected skin, ear, and mouth conditions

Laser is usually added to medication, wound care, diet, or husbandry changes, not used in place of them. For exotic patients, husbandry still comes up: heat, UVB, diet, and enclosure can matter as much as any treatment.

What a visit looks like

• Exam first. We confirm what is going on before we treat it.
• Most pets do not need sedation. Treatment is done awake, with a handpiece moved over the area.
• Most pets tolerate it calmly. Many owners stay with their pet during the session.
• Everyone in the room, including the pet when practical, wears eye protection.
• Many conditions need a series of sessions rather than one. Your veterinarian will tell you how many, how often, and how long, based on your pet. We offer single sessions and bundled treatment programs.

Questions owners actually ask

Does it hurt?

Most pets feel mild warmth or nothing at all. If a patient is stressed, we stop and adjust.

Is it safe for birds, reptiles, and small mammals?

We treat exotic patients with laser. Settings and handling are adjusted for the species and the size of the patient.

How fast will I see a difference?

It varies by patient and condition. Some owners notice changes early. Chronic problems usually need a plan over several visits.

Is there anything it should not be used for?

Yes. There are situations where laser is not appropriate, for example over certain tumors. That is one reason we examine first.

What does it cost?

We do not publish prices on this site because they change with the case. Call for what applies to your pet. Financing options are on our payment options page.

Book a laser consult

Call (786) 361-9344 or request an appointment. Hablamos español.
3858 SW 137 Avenue, Miami, FL 33175. Hours: Mon–Wed 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Thu 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Fri 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Sat 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM · Sun closed.

Related: Pet surgery · Dental services · All services · Birds · Rabbits and small mammals · Reptiles · Dogs and cats