Understanding Red Light Therapy for Dogs

Red Light Therapy

A Gentle, Holistic Approach to Canine Wellness

Red light therapy offers a safe, non-invasive way to support your dog’s health and well-being—whether they're recovering from an injury, dealing with arthritis, or simply aging gracefully. At Mountain View Grooming, we are proud to be the first and only grooming facility in the Union Hall and Smith Mountain Lake area to offer red light therapy for dogs. This affordable, stress-free treatment can be conveniently added to your dog’s regular grooming appointment and is designed to enhance comfort, mobility, and overall vitality.

A dog is laying on a red blanket next to bowls of food.

the history

The Long History of Red Light Therapy Benefits for Animals.

First introduced in the 1960s, red light therapy

utilizes light at specific wavelengths to stimulate

healing in animals. Cellular activity is stimulated by

this therapy, leading to a plethora of benefits

including:


  • Enhanced bone and joint health
  • Improved sleep and cognitive function
  • Healthier skin and coat
  • Lessened pain post injuries or surgeries
  • Accelerated wound healing
  • Enhanced muscle recovery
  • Reduced inflmmation and pain


With such a multitude of benefits, it's no wonder

that veterinary health professionals have embraced

this treatment option. It is used for a variety of

purposes, including treating acute injuries,

managing chronic conditions, and as a wellness

aid. However, while red light therapy is considered

safe and effective, it is not a cure-all and should be

administered under veterinary guidance for serious

illnesses.

A dog is laying on a bed under a red light

Also referred to as low-level laser therapy, red light

therapy is a type of photobiomodulation therapy.

This treatment involves the use of red and infrared

light to stimulate cellular function, promoting

healing at a cellular level. Infrared light, in

particular, penetrates deeper into the tissues,

providing therapeutic effects that reach beyond the

skin's surface.

Red light therapy is a non-invasive and safe

treatment option that can be used for various

conditions, including skin rejuvenation, pain

management, and wound healing.


THE SCIENCE BEHIND RED

LIGHT THERAPY


Red light therapy's underlying science is intriguing

and offers a unique, effective remedy for a variety

of canine ailments. This therapy works by

activating the mitochondria, the powerhouse of the

cell, leading to enhanced ATP energy production

and improved cellular repair and function.


MITOCHONDRIA - THE POWERHOUSE OF THE CELL - ATP MAKING MACHINE

A diagram of the structure of a mitochondrion

the science

How Red Light Therapy Works.

Red light therapy works by delivering specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to your dog’s body, which penetrate the skin and are absorbed by the cells. This light energy stimulates the mitochondria—often called the “powerhouses” of the cells—to produce more ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the molecule responsible for cellular energy. With increased ATP production, the body is better able to repair tissue, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing. This boost in cellular function helps improve circulation, reduce pain, and support the body’s natural healing processes, all without the use of medication or invasive procedures.


Red light therapy has been extensively studied for its ability to support healthy cellular function and overall wellness. Using specific wavelengths of red (620–660nm) and near-infrared (810–850nm) light, this therapy works by gently penetrating the skin and reaching the mitochondria—the part of the cell responsible for producing energy. When exposed to this light, the mitochondria can become more efficient at generating adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule that fuels nearly every biological process in the body. This photochemical reaction is similar to how plants convert sunlight into energy during photosynthesis. By enhancing ATP production, red light therapy may help boost cellular repair, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s natural healing processes from the inside out.

A diagram showing the difference between red and near infrared light

Unlock Your Dog's Potential

Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Dogs

A black cross with a flame inside of it on a white background.

Pain Relief

Red light therapy effectively alleviates pain in dogs, especially those suffering from arthritis or joint issues. This non-invasive treatment promotes healing and reduces inflammation, allowing your furry friend to enjoy a more comfortable life.
A black cross with a flame inside of it on a white background.

Improved Mobility

As dogs age, stiffness and limited movement can affect their quality of life. Red light therapy supports joint function and muscle health, helping senior dogs move more comfortably and stay active longer.

A black cross with a flame inside of it on a white background.

Reduce Inflammation

Red light therapy helps calm inflammation in joints and soft tissues, offering natural relief from chronic pain. It's especially beneficial for dogs with arthritis or other joint-related issues, providing comfort without medication.

A black cross with a flame inside of it on a white background.

Accelerate Recovery

Red light therapy can speed up the healing process by increasing ATP production and reducing inflammation at the site of injury. This makes it a valuable tool for post-surgical recovery or healing from sprains, strains, and wounds.

A black cross with a flame inside of it on a white background.

Soothe Sore Muscles and Stiffness

After playtime, exercise, or a long walk, red light therapy can help relax tight muscles and ease soreness. It promotes gentle relief and helps your dog bounce back faster.

A black cross with a flame inside of it on a white background.

Promote Skin Health and Coat Condition

Red light therapy stimulates healthy skin cell regeneration, which can help improve skin tone, reduce irritation, and support healing of minor skin conditions. It also encourages a shinier, healthier coat from the inside out.

A dog cage with a roof is sitting on a wooden floor next to a dog bed.

booth delivery

How Red Light Therapy Works at Mountain View

At Mountain View Grooming, we’ve created a custom red light therapy setup that’s designed with your dog’s comfort in mind. Your pup will rest in a spacious booth area, lying on a soft mat with red light panels both above and below. This allows the therapeutic light to reach the body from all angles, enhancing the effectiveness of each session. The treatment is quiet, calm, and usually lasts 20-30 minutes—perfect for integrating into their regular grooming visit without stress.

Simple.  Safe.  Super Effective.
A small dog is laying on a red mat in a cage.
A small dog is laying on a red mat next to a bowl of water
A black heart with a white heartbeat line inside of it.

Passionate Care

Each Mountain View groomer is a true pet lover at heart, treating every dog with the compassion and attention they deserve.

A black heart with a white heartbeat line inside of it.

Comfort First

We prioritize your pet's comfort, creating a soothing environment that helps them relax during their therapy sessions.

targeted approach

Hand-Held Red Light Therapy Delivery

In addition to full-body red light therapy, Mountain View Grooming offers targeted treatment using a handheld, medical-grade red light device. This approach allows us to focus directly on specific problem areas such as stiff joints, hip pain, muscle strain, or healing wounds—making it especially beneficial for older dogs or those recovering from injury. The painless, therapeutic light is applied with precision by our trained groomer to help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support faster healing exactly where your dog needs it most. It’s a powerful way to provide relief and promote recovery with comfort and care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Red Light Therapy for Dogs

Red light therapy is a safe and effective non-invasive treatment for dogs. Here, we address some common questions to help you understand how this therapy can benefit your furry friend.

A red mat is sitting on the floor in a room

Is red light therapy safe for dogs?

Yes, red light therapy is completely safe for dogs. It uses low-level wavelengths of light that penetrate the skin without causing any harm. This non-invasive treatment is well-tolerated by pets and has no known side effects.

How long does a red light therapy session last?

Typically, a red light therapy session lasts between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on your dog's specific needs.  Our booth delivers red light from both above and below, targeting whole-body penetration.  We ensure your pet is resting comfortably throughout the session.

What conditions can red light therapy help with?

Red light therapy is especially helpful for arthritis, joint pain, inflammation, muscle stiffness, and recovery after injury or surgery. It also supports circulation, skin health, and general wellness in aging dogs or active pups.

Will my dog feel anything during the session?

No, the treatment is completely painless. Most dogs relax or even nap during their session, as the lights create a calm and soothing environment.

Enhance Your Dog's Quality of Life with Red Light Therapy

Red light therapy offers remarkable benefits for your furry friend, especially for older dogs experiencing joint pain and mobility issues. This non-invasive treatment can help alleviate discomfort, improve circulation, and promote healing, allowing your pet to enjoy a more active and joyful life. Scheduling a session is simple, and our caring team at Mountain View Grooming is here to ensure your dog feels comfortable and relaxed throughout the process.