Services

There have been many advancements in digital x-ray technology, and we can now manipulate the digital images that we take. This allows us to diagnose issues that may not be seen on a traditional x-ray. Because the x-rays are digital, we can also easily share the images with specialists or other veterinarians we may consult for more difficult cases.

Laser therapy is a cutting-edge technique in veterinary medicine for managing many conditions, including chronic pain in pets. Class IV (cold) laser therapy is especially effective for treating pets that struggle with osteoarthritis pain whether or not they have orthopedic surgery.

Cold laser therapy is a noninvasive procedure that uses light to stimulate blood flow and increase circulation. It is not a surgical laser which cuts tissue, but a laser with different wavelengths to help heal tissues. The laser may even be used as a part of acupuncture in place of the needles.

Your veterinarian will first assess a pet’s pain management needs to determine whether he or she is a good candidate for laser therapy. It is not recommended for pets with cancer to have laser therapy as it could worsen or spread the malignancy. The doctor will create a custom treatment plan. Dogs and cats generally receive the greatest pain relief benefits from a series of eight to ten sessions, usually starting two to three times weekly, tapering down to weekly appointments.

Treatment sessions are tailored to each pet’s individual needs. Smaller dogs may only need eight to ten minute sessions. A larger dog that suffers from arthritis in multiple joints may benefit from a longer, 30-minute session. During a treatment session, the pet reclines on a table or may even lie on a blanket on the floor. Some veterinarians will even dim the lights and play soothing music, creating a mini “spa” experience for the pet. Your veterinarian may allow you to be present for these sessions, but you will need to wear special goggles to protect your eyes.

Pets that undergo orthopedic surgery may need up to six months of recovery time. Physical therapy helps the pet to recover and become active again. Laser therapy is a common adjunctive treatment that allows faster healing of the surgical incision, and also helps to relieve the arthritic pain.

Many arthritic pets respond positively to laser therapy. In fact, some pets even fall asleep during treatment sessions as it is the first time they are finally able to relax and not be in pain.

In addition to helping manage arthritis pain, veterinary laser therapy has numerous other applications. Treatment with a Class IV laser may help heal wounds, treat skin disorders such as lick granuloma, and help surgical skin incisions heal faster.

Our doctors are USDA certified to evaluate pets for intrastate and international health certificates. Each location’s government will have different requirements with specific guidelines.

You can research requirements for your pet on the USDA website.

Hawaii has very stringent and time-sensitive requirements to travel with your pet, please research here.

Whether you are going out of town for vacation or business, we know it is hard to leave your pet. The guilt and stress over it make it even more difficult. Nobody ever wants to leave their baby – but imagine if your pet gets to go and stay with people that treat them like their own!

The Advanced Pet Care team is here to keep your four-legged family members safe, happy, and comfortable during their stay. Our facilities include clean, climate-controlled, and raised dog runs and kitty condos available for your furry companion year-round.

We provide surgical options in a clean and safe environment. Most importantly, our veterinary team can closely track each animal’s vital condition during surgery.

Over 13 million pets are put to death in our nation’s animal shelters each year for lack of homes. That is why responsible pet owners make sure that their pets are not contributing to this serious over-population problem. In addition to preventing overpopulation, there are also health risks that are reduced by spaying and neutering.

Click here to complete our anesthesia and surgical consent form online!