vet assistant with dog

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy 

Platelet-rich plasma therapy (PRP) is a relatively new treatment that can aid pets who have either sustained a new injury or are dealing with chronic pain from osteoarthritic conditions. This therapy uses platelets, which are small cell fragments found in the blood. 

One of the platelets’ main roles is achieving hemostasis — producing blood clots — but they also serve many other functions in the body. Along with having pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, platelets also contain growth factors such as epidermal growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and fibroblast growth factor that can help with tissue regeneration and healing.

With platelet therapy, a combination of your pet’s own plasma, cells and cell parts is usually used. This mixture of platelets and proteins is then reinserted into the affected areas of their body to help heal them and improve their quality of life.

At Foothills Pet Healthcare Clinic, we offer platelet-rich plasma therapy for patients. Our team of veterinarians and surgeons can help you determine if this treatment is right for your dog or cat.

Which Pets Can Benefit From Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy?

Platelet-rich plasma therapy can serve pets dealing with inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis, which involves their muscles, tendons and ligaments. Pets who have sustained a tendon, ligament or spinal injury are often fitting candidates as well. 

Because this is a form of regenerative medicine, platelet-rich therapy can also aid in healing pets with bone regeneration following a fracture. Alongside animals with these medical conditions, dogs and cats who cannot undergo surgery or those suffering complications or poor recovery could also benefit from this procedure.

Benefits of PRP Therapy for Cats and Dogs 

PRP can treat various medical conditions safely and effectively. Whether your pet has sustained a new injury or has been dealing with a chronic case for a while, PRP can help:

  • Relieve pain
  • Promote healing
  • Reduce recovery time

How Does PRP Therapy for Pets Work? 

To make the best medical recommendation for you and your pet, the veterinarians at Foothills Pet Healthcare Clinic always do the necessary bloodwork, labs and testing to help you decide if PRP treatment is the best course of action.

If your dog or cat is a suitable candidate, they will then undergo therapy at our clinic. Our team will first draw blood to separate the red blood cell serum, white blood cells and platelets. After the blood has gone through the processing unit, the concentrated mixture will be injected back into the injured or diseased area. 

Typically, this entire treatment is done as an in-hospital day procedure. Depending on the severity of your dog or cat’s condition, they could require anywhere from one to multiple injections.

Why Trust Foothills Pet Healthcare Clinic to Handle Your Pet’s PRP Therapy?

At our clinic, we have the experience and capabilities to handle your pet’s pre-surgery, post-surgery and rehab needs. When your dog or cat receives treatment at our practice, you can expect to receive: 

  • Compassionate, comprehensive care
  • Budget-friendly treatments
  • Our dedication to solving difficult injuries and conditions
  • Detailed medical records and physical exam sheets

Schedule an Appointment Today to Learn More About Our Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy for Dogs and Cats

If your pet has been dealing with new or chronic pain and mobility issues, Foothills Pet Healthcare Clinic accepts patients within a 60-mile radius of our clinic here in Mount Airy, North Carolina. 

If you’d like to learn more about our PRP therapy and how it could benefit your pet, we invite you to schedule an appointment to meet with one of our doctors for an exam. Reach out to us at 336-789-0009 or fill out our online contact form to get started.