Photizo Vetcare for Dogs: Red Light Therapy, Benefits, Evidence & How It Works

If you've noticed your dog taking a little longer to get up after a nap, becoming stiffer after exercise, or simply not moving quite as freely as they once did, you may have started looking for ways to support their comfort and mobility.

One option that has attracted growing interest in veterinary medicine and animal rehabilitation is red and near-infrared light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation (PBM).

Photizo Vetcare is a handheld LED light therapy device designed specifically for animals. But what exactly is photobiomodulation? How might it work? What does the research tell us? And could it have a place in your dog's care?

At Kimi's Pet Emporium, we believe pet owners should be given balanced information rather than exaggerated claims. In this guide, we'll look at Photizo Vetcare, the science behind photobiomodulation, its potential applications and, importantly, its limitations.

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy is commonly used to describe a group of treatments in which specific wavelengths of light are directed towards tissue.

In veterinary medicine, the broader term photobiomodulation is often used. PBM includes treatments using different light sources, including LEDs and therapeutic lasers.

Unlike ultraviolet light, the wavelengths used for PBM are selected for their interaction with biological tissue.

Research suggests that light at appropriate wavelengths and doses can influence cellular processes involved in areas such as inflammation and tissue repair. However, the effects depend heavily on factors including wavelength, power density, energy dose, treatment time, treatment frequency and the tissue being treated.

This is important because photobiomodulation isn't simply a case of "more light equals better results."

A systematic review of veterinary research found considerable variation in treatment parameters and concluded that, while some beneficial effects have been reported, the evidence remains inconsistent and further high-quality research is needed.

What Is Photizo Vetcare?

Photizo Vetcare is a handheld LED photobiomodulation device designed for use with animals.

According to the manufacturer's instructions for use, the device uses:

• 633 nm red light
• 850 nm infrared light
• Approximately 4.7 cm² treatment coverage
• Power output varying between approximately 330 and 380 mW/cm²

The device delivers both red and infrared wavelengths through its light-emitting array.

Its relatively small treatment area means the device is intended to be positioned directly over the area being treated, with treatment repeated across different areas where appropriate.

The important point is that Photizo is an LED-based photobiomodulation device, rather than a conventional therapeutic laser.

How Does Photobiomodulation Work?

The science behind photobiomodulation is still being investigated.

One proposed mechanism involves light being absorbed by cellular components, potentially influencing processes associated with cellular energy production and tissue repair. Researchers have also investigated possible effects on inflammatory and immune responses.

However, it would be misleading to suggest that we completely understand every mechanism involved.

The response to photobiomodulation can depend on the wavelength, dose, intensity, treatment time, frequency and characteristics of the tissue being treated.

This is sometimes described as a dose-response relationship: too little energy may have little effect, while simply increasing the amount of light does not necessarily produce better results.

That is one reason why treatment protocols matter.

Red Light and Near-Infrared Light: What's the Difference?

Photizo Vetcare uses two wavelengths, each with different characteristics.

633 nm red light

633 nm sits within the visible red portion of the light spectrum.

Red light is generally considered more suited to relatively superficial tissues because its penetration into tissue is more limited than longer near-infrared wavelengths.

850 nm near-infrared light

850 nm is outside the visible spectrum and is commonly described as near-infrared light.

Near-infrared wavelengths can penetrate further into tissue than visible red light, although the actual amount of energy reaching deeper structures depends on numerous factors, including tissue thickness, pigmentation, wavelength, power and treatment parameters.

It is therefore too simplistic to say that 850 nm light simply "reaches the joints" and automatically produces a therapeutic effect.

The important distinction is between light reaching a particular depth and sufficient therapeutic energy reaching that tissue.

What Could Photobiomodulation Be Used For in Dogs?

Photobiomodulation has been investigated for a range of applications in veterinary medicine.

These include:

• Musculoskeletal conditions
• Mobility and exercise-related issues
• Rehabilitation
• Soft-tissue recovery
• Wound management
• Pain and discomfort
• Post-operative rehabilitation
• Some neurological conditions

The scientific evidence is not equally strong for all of these applications.

A 2023 systematic review examined 45 relevant veterinary studies, including 24 involving dogs. The research covered musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, skin and wounds, and pain.

The review found some encouraging results but also considerable variation between studies, conflicting findings and limitations in study quality. The authors concluded that more research is required to establish the most appropriate doses and treatment protocols.

For that reason, it is better to think of photobiomodulation as a potential supportive therapy rather than a proven treatment for every condition.

Could Photobiomodulation Help Dogs With Arthritis?

Arthritis and other mobility problems are among the reasons owners may investigate light therapy.

Research into photobiomodulation for canine osteoarthritis has produced some encouraging findings. For example, controlled research has investigated PBM in dogs with elbow osteoarthritis and reported improvements in some clinical measures.

However, the wider veterinary literature is not completely consistent.

The 2023 systematic review found conflicting results across studies and highlighted the major differences in wavelengths, doses, treatment durations and other protocols.

So while photobiomodulation may be worth discussing as part of a wider approach to managing a dog's mobility, it should not be presented as a cure for arthritis.

A dog with arthritis may also benefit from weight management, appropriate exercise, physiotherapy, environmental adjustments and veterinary-prescribed medication where necessary.

Photizo Vetcare and Older Dogs

Older dogs often experience gradual changes in mobility.

You may notice that your dog:

• Takes longer to get up
• Hesitates before climbing stairs
• Is less enthusiastic about jumping into the car
• Takes longer to recover after walks
• Becomes stiff after resting
• Doesn't exercise for as long as they used to

These changes shouldn't automatically be dismissed as "just old age."

Pain, arthritis, soft-tissue injuries and other underlying conditions can all affect mobility.

If your dog's movement has changed noticeably, establishing the underlying cause with your vet should come first. Once a condition has been assessed, photobiomodulation may be something worth discussing as part of a wider supportive or rehabilitation programme.

Who Might Consider Photizo Vetcare?

Photizo Vetcare may be of interest to owners looking for a non-invasive light-based therapy that can potentially complement a dog's existing care plan.

It may be particularly relevant where:

• A dog has an existing veterinary diagnosis
• A rehabilitation programme has been recommended
• An older dog is experiencing mobility changes
• A working or sporting dog is recovering from exercise
• A veterinary professional has recommended photobiomodulation

It is less appropriate to simply use a light therapy device as a substitute for finding out why a dog is suddenly lame, painful or struggling to move.

A sudden change in mobility should be investigated rather than simply treated at home.

What Does the Scientific Evidence Say?

There is a legitimate scientific basis for investigating photobiomodulation in veterinary medicine.

A 2018 review described growing research into the effects of photobiomodulation on inflammatory and immune responses and tissue healing.

However, the evidence base is not yet strong enough to support every claim sometimes made in marketing.

The 2023 systematic review is particularly useful because it looked across the veterinary literature rather than focusing on a single device or study.

It identified:

• 45 studies meeting the review criteria
• 24 studies involving dogs
• Research covering musculoskeletal conditions, neurological conditions, wounds, skin disease and pain
• Conflicting results between studies
• Significant differences in treatment parameters
• Moderate or high risk of bias in a number of studies

The authors concluded that further well-designed clinical trials and dose studies are needed.

That doesn't mean photobiomodulation doesn't work.

It means the evidence is promising in some areas but not definitive across the board.

Does Red Light Therapy Actually Work?

The most honest answer is:

Photobiomodulation may provide benefits in some circumstances, but the evidence does not show that every dog will respond in the same way or that it is effective for every condition.

There are veterinary studies reporting positive outcomes, and there is biological research supporting potential mechanisms of action.

At the same time, controlled studies have also produced neutral or conflicting results.

This is why we believe owners should be cautious about phrases such as "miracle treatment", "guaranteed results" or claims that a particular wavelength will cure a specific condition.

Promising doesn't mean proven for everything.

Photobiomodulation vs Laser Therapy

The terms "red light therapy", "photobiomodulation" and "laser therapy" are sometimes used interchangeably, but they aren't necessarily describing the same equipment.

Photobiomodulation is the broader term.

It can involve different types of light sources, including LEDs and lasers.

Photizo Vetcare uses LED technology, rather than a conventional therapeutic laser.

The differences between devices can include:

• Wavelength
• Power output
• Power density
• Treatment area
• Beam characteristics
• Energy dose
• Treatment duration
• Treatment frequency

Consequently, research conducted using one laser or LED device should not automatically be interpreted as proof that every other photobiomodulation device will produce the same results.

Is Photizo Vetcare Painful?

Photobiomodulation is designed to be a non-invasive form of light treatment.

The treatment itself should not be expected to involve injections, needles or surgical procedures.

However, every dog is different.

Some dogs may be uncomfortable with having a device positioned against their body, particularly if the area is already painful.

If your dog becomes distressed or uncomfortable during treatment, stop and seek advice where appropriate.

How Is Photizo Vetcare Used?

The device is designed to be placed over the area being treated.

Because the treatment area is relatively small, several positions may be needed when covering a larger area.

Treatment should always follow the current manufacturer's instructions, including the recommended treatment duration and frequency.

It is important not to assume that longer or more frequent treatment will necessarily produce better results.

With photobiomodulation, treatment parameters are part of the therapy.

Is Photizo Vetcare Safe?

Photobiomodulation is generally considered a non-invasive therapy, but that does not mean that every situation is suitable for home treatment.

Speak to your veterinary professional before using light therapy if your dog has:

• An unexplained lump or mass
• A serious or unexplained injury
• Significant swelling
• An active or complicated wound
• Recently undergone surgery
• Reduced sensation in the treatment area
• Another significant underlying health condition
• A condition for which treatment has not yet been diagnosed

Particular care should also be taken around the eyes, and owners should follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

If your dog is already receiving veterinary treatment, Photizo should be considered an adjunct to appropriate veterinary care rather than a replacement for it.

What About Using Photizo After Surgery?

Photobiomodulation has been investigated as part of post-operative recovery and rehabilitation.

Some studies have reported positive findings, while others have found less convincing results. The 2023 systematic review highlights how much outcomes can vary depending on the condition, treatment protocol and study design.

Whether light therapy is appropriate after surgery depends on factors such as:

• The type of surgery
• The location being treated
• The stage of healing
• The condition of the wound
• The dog's overall health
• The rehabilitation programme

For this reason, post-operative use should be discussed with the veterinary professional responsible for your dog's care.

Can Photizo Replace Pain Medication?

No.

A light therapy device should not be used as a replacement for veterinary diagnosis or prescribed pain relief.

If your dog is experiencing significant pain, sudden lameness, refuses to put weight on a limb, develops marked swelling or suddenly becomes much less mobile, veterinary advice should be sought.

Pain is a symptom, and understanding its cause is important.

Photobiomodulation may potentially form part of a wider management or rehabilitation programme, but it shouldn't be used to mask a problem that needs veterinary attention.

What Can Photizo Realistically Do?

This is probably the most important question for any owner considering a light therapy device.

Rather than thinking of Photizo as a cure, it is more realistic to view it as a supportive therapy that may help some dogs as part of a wider approach to care.

Potential areas of interest include:

• Supporting mobility and comfort
• Supporting rehabilitation
• Complementing exercise and physiotherapy
• Supporting recovery from soft-tissue problems
• Supporting normal tissue healing

The response can vary considerably between individual dogs and conditions.

There is no guarantee that a particular dog will experience a noticeable benefit.

Why We Stock Photizo Vetcare at Kimi's Pet Emporium

At Kimi's Pet Emporium, we try to be selective about the products we recommend.

We don't believe pet owners benefit from exaggerated promises or products presented as miracle cures.

One of the reasons Photizo Vetcare interests us is that it uses a specific form of photobiomodulation technology and provides a non-invasive option that may complement other aspects of veterinary care and rehabilitation.

But we also think it's important to acknowledge the limitations of the science.

The evidence surrounding veterinary photobiomodulation is encouraging in some areas, but it is still developing.

That's why we would describe Photizo as a potentially useful supportive therapy — not a magic wand.

Photizo Vetcare FAQs

What is Photizo Vetcare?

Photizo Vetcare is a handheld LED photobiomodulation device designed for animals. It uses 633 nm red light and 850 nm infrared light.

Can Photizo help dogs with arthritis?

There is research investigating photobiomodulation for canine osteoarthritis, with some encouraging findings. However, the overall evidence is mixed and it should not be considered a cure for arthritis.

Is Photizo a laser?

No. Photizo Vetcare uses LED light rather than a conventional therapeutic laser.

How often should Photizo be used?

Follow the current manufacturer's instructions for the recommended treatment duration and frequency. More treatment is not necessarily better.

Can I use Photizo alongside pain medication?

Photizo should not be regarded as a replacement for prescribed medication. If your dog is receiving veterinary treatment, discuss complementary therapies with your vet.

Can Photizo be used after surgery?

It may be considered in some rehabilitation programmes, but post-operative use should be discussed with the veterinary professional responsible for your dog's recovery.

Can Photizo be used on every dog?

Not necessarily. The underlying condition, treatment area and individual circumstances should be considered. If you are unsure, ask your veterinary professional.

Does Photizo cure arthritis?

No. Photobiomodulation should not be presented as a cure for arthritis. It may potentially provide supportive benefits for some dogs as part of a broader management plan.

Final Thoughts

Photobiomodulation is an interesting area of veterinary science, and there is a genuine scientific basis for investigating how specific wavelengths of light interact with biological tissue.

The research so far is encouraging in some areas, particularly around musculoskeletal conditions and rehabilitation, but it is not conclusive for every application.

For dog owners, that means keeping expectations realistic.

Photizo Vetcare isn't a replacement for veterinary diagnosis, prescribed medication or appropriate rehabilitation. Instead, it may be considered as one potential supportive tool within a wider approach to maintaining comfort, mobility and recovery.

At Kimi's Pet Emporium, we believe that's the right way to look at products like this: understand what the science suggests, understand what it doesn't prove, and make informed decisions about your dog's care.

Sources & Further Reading

• Hochman L. Photobiomodulation Therapy in Veterinary Medicine: A Review. Topics in Companion Animal Medicine, 2018.
• Millis DL & Bergh A. A Systematic Literature Review of Complementary and Alternative Veterinary Medicine: Laser Therapy. Animals, 2023.
• Looney AL et al. A randomized blind placebo-controlled trial investigating the effects of photobiomodulation therapy on canine elbow osteoarthritis. Canadian Veterinary Journal, 2018.
• Photizo Vetcare. Instructions for Use – Vetcare, including device specifications.