Bird Laser Therapy
Bird Laser Therapy has many applications. One of the most common of these is with birds that display feather destructive behaviour (feather plucking). At Bird Vet Melbourne, we have had some amazing results with birds who have consequently stopped plucking and are re-growing feathers.
What Conditions in Birds does Laser Therapy Treat?
Laser Therapy is non-invasive, drug free treatment that is primarily used to reduce/control pain, reduce inflammation and stimulate healing.
Many conditions can be improved with the use of laser therapy.
The most common ailments that we use it for at Bird Vet Melbourne include: feather plucking, self-mutilation, arthritis, digestive diseases, skin conditions, wound healing, broken bones, circulatory issues.
The only condition that we won't treat with a laser is cancer.
Do Birds Need To Be Sedated For Treatment?
This is a common concern from clients as obviously sedation or an unaesthetic carries a level of risk to it. At Bird Vet Melbourne we strive to make laser a force free, stress free encounter.
Our handling protocols have been designed by a world leading avian behaviourist who is known for force free training techniques. Through the use of carefully tested antecedent arrangements, even untame, aggressive birds require the minimal amount of restraint for laser treatment. Birds actually relax during treatment because the treatment itself feels good.
Why do you cover a bird's head?
There is one main risk associated with laser therapy and that is that it is not safe to expose an animal's eyes to the laser, due to the risk of damaging an eye. Consequently larger animals wear protective eyewear. Most birds don't particularly enjoy wearing goggles, so we use a variety of methods to cover eyes. Most commonly this means a cloth over the head, held lightly in place by a handler, who will additionally position their hands/fingers for additional shielding.
Depending on the size and type of bird, other options for eye coverage may be a mask or sock.
At Bird Vet Melbourne, we have a very high quality laser machine that has inbuilt safety mechanisms that can even automatically shut the machine off if triggered. The clinic invested in one of the top machines on the market because cheaper machines have a poor ability to focus and shield the laser, increasing the risk of eye exposure.
How often and how long are treatments?
The actual treatment session time for most birds will be under 15 minutes per session. (Smaller the bird, the shorter the time.) Laser Therapy works better if done regularly. The frequency will vary depending on the condition being treated. Initially, birds respond better if treatment is performed more regularly. Most birds start with a weekly dose, then drop back to fortnightly, then a monthly maintenance dose (if required for ongoing conditions).
More serious wounds sometimes need to start with more frequent doses, but when recovery is achieved ongoing treatment is not needed.
Is It Expensive?
This is one of the most cost effective treatments available for birds. Bird Vet Melbourne offers sessions for birds from $40. With package deals available from $200. (So the 6th treatment would be free in that case.)
Prices may be higher for larger animals such as dogs and cats, due to the longer session time required.
Why Come To Bird Vet Melbourne?
We have multiple staff that are qualified laser technicians. We believe in this therapy so much, our staff made a point of completing further study to become accredited in it. Laser Therapy is still very new in Australia, so our laser staff have completed internationally recognized courses run by AIMLA (American Institute of Medical Laser Applications). Our staff regularly participate in international forums and ensure their knowledge is kept up to date.
There is more to laser therapy than heat and a pretty light. You want to go to a clinic that understands the appropriate dose for your bird and their particular needs. Our experienced bird handlers will ensure that your birds remain stress and fear free during treatment. We want your birds to learn to enjoy coming to the vet.