We love our pets. They are family and we feel their discomfort as if it were our own. Some of the most common health issues pets face are skin related and they can be frustrating for both animals and their humans. Hot spots, itching, allergies, and mysterious rashes are not only uncomfortable but often lead to endless cycles of scratching, licking, and vet visits.
Skin irritation in pets can develop for many reasons. Some skin conditions are genetic and certain breeds, such as cocker spaniels, golden retrievers, and German shepherds, are more prone to skin problems. Pets can also experience allergies just like we do. Environmental triggers like pollen and grass, household irritants like cleaning sprays and laundry detergents, and even fillers in pet food can trigger inflamed, itchy, and sensitive skin. Left untreated, these flare ups worsen as pets lick and scratch for relief, which only irritates the skin further.
If your pet struggles with recurring skin issues you have likely already tried prescription creams, oral medications, or medicated shampoos from your veterinarian. These treatments can help but they sometimes come with side effects or are difficult to apply long term. Many pet parents now look for safe, holistic therapies that can be used alongside veterinary care to promote faster healing. This is where red light therapy comes in.
Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of natural light to support cellular energy and repair. All living creatures rely on light for survival and these wavelengths interact with cells in a way that encourages healing and reduces inflammation. Red light therapy increases ATP, the energy source inside cells. This allows tissues to repair more efficiently and supports healthier skin from within.
Common Causes of Skin Irritation in Pets
Before exploring how red light therapy supports skin healing it helps to understand common causes of skin irritation in pets.
Hot Spots
Hot spots, also called acute moist dermatitis, are painful, inflamed areas of skin that often appear suddenly. They are most common in dogs and can spread fast if left untreated. Hot spots are often caused by allergies, bacterial infections, insect bites, excessive licking, moisture trapped under the fur from swimming, or poor grooming.
Allergies
Both food and environmental allergies are common in pets. Allergies often appear as dry patches, redness, hot spots, or hives. Symptoms usually flare when a pet is exposed to a particular trigger such as pollen, dust mites, mold, grass, or certain food ingredients like wheat or chicken.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis in pets is rare but it does occur. It is considered an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks healthy skin cells, causing rapid skin growth and inflammation. Psoriasis is often mistaken for dermatitis or allergies and can persist without proper care. Early supportive treatment improves comfort and reduces flare ups.
What Is Red Light Therapy and How Does It Work?
Red light therapy, also called photobiomodulation, is a gentle, noninvasive treatment that uses low-level red and near infrared light to support healing at a cellular level. Unlike UV light from the sun, red light does not damage the skin. It does not burn or create heat. Instead, it penetrates the skin and stimulates mitochondria, the energy centers inside cells. This increases ATP production, improves circulation, decreases inflammation, and enhances tissue repair.
Originally used in human wellness and physical therapy, red light therapy is now widely used in veterinary care. It helps relieve pain, accelerate wound healing, and improve skin health in dogs, cats, and horses. It is safe, drug free, and painless for pets.
Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Pet Hot Spots
Red light therapy brings fast and gentle relief to pets suffering from hot spots. Benefits include:
- Fast itch relief
- Visible reduction in redness and swelling
- Faster healing times
- Lower risk of infection
- Less reliance on steroids or antibiotics
- Encourages healthy fur regrowth
- Helps prevent future flare ups
With consistent use, red light therapy not only heals current hot spots but also improves overall skin resilience.
How to Use Red Light Therapy at Home
Red light therapy is simple to use when done correctly.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Clean the area gently and trim excess fur if needed.
- Position the device 6 to 12 inches from the skin, based on the device power.
- Treat for 3 to 10 minutes per session.
- Repeat daily for active flare-ups, then move to 3 to 4 sessions per week for maintenance.
Safety Tips
- Avoid shining the light directly into your pet’s eyes.
- Keep the skin clean and dry before each session.
- Monitor for mild warmth and adjust distance if needed.
- Supervise your pet during each treatment.
Most pets relax once they associate red light with relief.
When to Expect Results
Many pets show improvement after only a few sessions. Reduced itching and calmer behavior are often noticed first, followed by a decrease in redness and swelling. Visible healing usually begins within 3 to 5 days. Full recovery time depends on severity and may take 1 to 2 weeks. Continue treatments for several days after healing to strengthen the skin and prevent recurrence. Pets with chronic skin issues often benefit from long-term maintenance two or three times per week.
Other Skin Conditions Helped by Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy also supports healing for:
- Dermatitis
- Allergic reactions
- Minor wounds
- Post surgery recovery
- Paw pad irritation
- Ear inflammation
It works by encouraging healthy tissue repair and calming inflammation.
Choosing the Right Red Light Device for Pets
For best results, choose a device with therapeutic 630 and 660 nm wavelengths for surface healing and 810 and 850 nm for deeper tissue support. Our Pro 2.0 and Elite 2.0 have a preset designed specially for pets that will deliver all the healing benefits that we experience at an intensity that is optimized for them. The Pro 2.0 is an appropriate size for most pets, but if your pet is large, like a mastiff or Newfoundland, and is affected by skin conditions all over the body, the Elite 2.0 can provide greater coverage for faster results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is red light therapy safe for dogs and cats?
Yes. It is noninvasive, gentle, and widely used in veterinary clinics.
Can I use my human red light device on my pet?
Yes, as long as it uses appropriate wavelengths and you follow safety guidelines.
How long is each session?
Three to ten minutes per treatment area.
Can puppies and kittens use it?
Yes, keep sessions short and monitor closely.
Can it reduce itching without medication?
Yes, red light therapy calms inflammation and soothes irritation naturally.
When to See a Veterinarian
Seek veterinary care if you notice:
- Hot spots spreading quickly
- Foul odor or pus
- Fever or lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Pain that worsens instead of improves
Red light therapy is most effective when used alongside proper veterinary care when needed.
Red light therapy offers pet parents a safe, natural, science backed way to care for their animals at home. With consistent use it helps soothe irritated skin, accelerate healing, and support overall wellness so pets can feel comfortable in their skin again.
