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Treatment Options

 

                                                        PEMFT Therapy

What Is Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy or PEMFT ?

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses gentle magnetic pulses to provide an optimal environment for the body’s natural healing processes. It works at the cellular level to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue repair. 

 

How it works:

  • Electromagnetic pulses pass through fur, skin, and muscle.

  • Cells absorb the energy, improving their function and promoting healing.

  • Improved blood flow and oxygenation help repair tissues and reduce pain, helping optimise and speed up healing

 

Benefits for Dogs:

PEMFT is commonly used to help with:

  • Orthopedic problems: arthritis and joint pain, hip dysplasia, degenerative joint disease.

  • Neurological conditions: nerve injury, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) support.

  • Sports or working dog injuries: sprains, strains, muscle tears.

  • Wounds and skin issues: hot spots, lick granulomas, slow-healing sores.

  • Chronic pain management: especially in senior dogs.

  • Bone healing: fractures or surgical bone repair.

  • Post-surgical recovery.

It is a non-invasive and drug-free therapy and it can:

  • Reduce or delay the need for pain medication.

  • Improve mobility and quality of life.


 

Safety and side effects:

PEMFT is generally suitable for most dogs and can be combined with medication, physiotherapy, acupuncture, or hydrotherapy. However, it is not recommended for dogs with:

  • Active tumours and cancer - PEMF can stimulate cell growth and metabolism, making it counterproductive to apply over known cancers unless specifically authorised by a veterinary oncologist

  • Implanted electronic devices- PEMF can interfere with pacemakers and other battery-operated implants in both humans and animals. Owners with pacemakers must be at least 10 feet away from the treatment area to avoid exposure to electromagnetic fields

  • Pregnancy - It is not recommended for pregnant animals as the electromagnetic field may interfere with natural development. Pregnant owners should not be in the immediate vicinity of treatment as they could be exposed to electromagnetic fields

  • Active bleeding - Because PEMF increases local blood circulation, it can worsen ongoing hemorrhages or actively bleeding wounds

  • Young puppies - It should be avoided on areas of active growth plates to prevent interfering with normal bone development

  • Active infections - It is typically not recommended over areas with acute, active, or fungal infections


 

What to expect during a PEMFT session:

  • Comfortable and relaxing environment - most dogs relax, and some may even nap.

  • No sedation needed - therapy is gentle, painless, and quiet.

  • Typical session length: usually 10-30 minutes per area,  depending on the condition.

  • Treatment plan: often a few times a week initially, then maintenance sessions as advised by your vet.

 

Frequently asked questions:

Q. Will my dog feel anything?

A: Most dogs feel nothing at all - some may notice a gentle pulsing from the mat or pad.

Q. How soon will I see results?

A: Some dogs improve after the first session, but most require a course of treatments to see lasting benefits.

Q. Is PEMFT a cure?

A: It is not a cure, but it can significantly help manage symptoms, improve healing, and enhance comfort.

Q. Can I stay with my dog during treatment?

A: As our clinic is mobile and we treat dogs at the comfort of their own home, many owners sit nearby for reassurance, and dogs often relax more with a familiar face present.

Tips for owners:

  • Keep your dog hydrated before and after therapy - it helps the body clear waste from healing tissues.

  • Light exercise after a session can help maintain mobility (if your vet approves).

  • Combine PEMFT with a healthy diet and supplements for best results.

 

Evidence and Veterinary use:

PEMFT is supported by veterinary studies and is widely used in sports medicine, rehabilitation, and chronic pain management for animals. It is also used in human medicine for bone healing and pain relief. 

Always consult your veterinarian before starting PEMFT to ensure it’s right for your dog’s specific condition.

​                                         

     Laser Therapy

What Is Laser Therapy ?

Laser therapy, also called photobiomodulation, is a modern, non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.

The light penetrates into tissues, where it encourages cell activity, reduces inflammation, and eases discomfort.


 

How It Works:

The laser (Class IIIB) is typically held against the skin in the desired area of treatment, with the fur parted, with gentle pressure to ensure good contact. The probe (single or cluster head) is held for a period of time depending on the colour and thickness of the dog’s coat and skin and then moved to another location within the treatment area.

When laser light reaches injured or inflamed tissues:

  • Cellular stimulation: It boosts the energy production in cells (ATP), which helps them repair and function better.

  • Increased circulation: Blood flow improves, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to the area.

  • Reduced inflammation: The light helps the body clear out inflammatory chemicals and swelling.

  • Pain relief: The therapy encourages the release of endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers) and reduces nerve sensitivity.

These effects work together to speed up recovery and improve your dog’s comfort.

 

Conditions Laser Therapy Can Help:

Laser therapy can be used alongside other treatments or as a stand-alone option. Common issues include:

  • Arthritis and joint pain - reduces stiffness and improves mobility.

  • Muscle strains, sprains, or ligament injuries.

  • Back problems - such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).

  • Post-surgical recovery - speeds healing and reduces scar tissue formation.

  • Wounds and abrasions - helps with the natural healing process to close wounds faster.

  • Hot spots or skin irritations - calms inflammation and itching.

  • Chronic ear inflammation - reduces swelling and discomfort.

  • Lick granulomas - aids healing and reduces self-trauma.

 

Safety and side effects:

Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment with no known side effects when performed correctly. It can be used for dogs of all ages, from puppies (avoiding growth plates) to seniors.

Special care is taken to ensure proper use, including wearing protective eyewear and avoiding direct laser contact with eyes.

When laser therapy should NOT be used:

  • Over or near tumors - Laser can stimulate cell growth, so it’s avoided on known or suspected cancers.

  • Over the abdomen of pregnant dogs - Safety during pregnancy has not yet been established.

  • Directly over growth plates in young puppies - May interfere with bone development.

  • Directly into the eyes - Always avoided to protect vision.

  • On certain light-sensitive areas or in pets on photosensitising medications such as steroids - May cause irritation.

  • Over areas of active bleeding - Laser can increase blood flow.

  • Active infections - It is typically not recommended over areas with acute, active, or fungal infections

 

Your veterinarian and physiotherapist will always assess your dog’s health before recommending laser therapy.

 

What Happens During a Session?

  • Preparation: Your dog is made comfortable in a quiet space - no sedation is needed.

  • Protective eyewear: All people and pets in the room wear protective goggles to shield their eyes from the laser light.

  • Treatment: A hand-held laser device is placed gently over the affected area 

  • Duration: Depending on the size and number of areas treated, a session may last between 5 and 20 minutes.

  • Experience: The treatment is painless. Most dogs relax, and some even fall asleep during their session!

 

Treatment Plans:

  • Acute injuries (such as sprains) may improve with just 1-3 sessions*.

  • Chronic conditions (like arthritis) often start with 2-3 sessions per week for 2-3 weeks, followed by maintenance visits every few weeks or months.

Your physiotherapist will design a plan based on your dog’s condition, response, and lifestyle.

*Results vary depending on the individual dog, lifestyle and home environment

 

Benefits Owners Often Notice:

  • Less limping or stiffness.

  • Easier movement and more willingness to play or go for walks.

  • Reduced swelling around joints or injuries.

  • Faster healing of wounds or post-surgical sites.

  • Improved overall comfort and quality of life.

 

Aftercare:

  • Your dog can return to normal activity immediately after treatment.

  • Some pets show an immediate boost in energy; others may seem more relaxed and sleep well that night.

  • For best results, follow the complete treatment schedule by your physiotherapist. 

 

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Q. Will my dog feel any pain during the session?

A: No - laser therapy is painless. Dogs will only feel the tactile input with the laser head being placed against the skin. Some dogs may feel a gentle warming sensation.

Q. How soon will I see results?

A: Many dogs show improvement after the first session, but the best results often come after several treatments.

Q. Can laser therapy be used with medications?

A: Most painkillers are suitable to use and often the combination of pain relief medication and laser therapy produce optimal results. However, some medications such as steroids are contraindicated. Please check with your vet and physiotherapist prior to treatment.

Q. Is it suitable for older dogs?

A: Yes - in fact, senior dogs with arthritis or mobility issues are some of the main beneficiaries. 

Q. Does my dog need to be shaved?

Usually not, but in cases of very thick fur, a small area may be clipped to help the light penetrate better.

 

Tips For Owners:

  • Make sure your dog is calm and well-rested for their session.

  • Let them have a bathroom break before treatment so they can fully relax.

  • Try to keep your dog from overexerting themselves immediately after treatment - even if they feel more energetic.

  • Stick to the recommended schedule - consistency is key for best results.

  • Keep a diary of your dog’s mobility, comfort and energy levels to share with your vet.

  • If you notice any changes in your dog’s condition, let us and your vet know promptly. 

 

Evidence and Research:

Laser therapy has been used for decades in both human and veterinary medicine. 

Research shows it can:

  • Reduce pain and inflammation.

  • Improve mobility in arthritic joints.

  • Speed up wound and surgical healing.

  • Shorten recovery time after injury.

 

If you have any questions about whether laser therapy is right for your dog, speak to one of our physiotherapist team members. We’re here to help your pet to feel their best.

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©2026 by London Veterinary Physiotherapy & Behaviour - London Animal Physiotherapy Limited

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