Platelet Rich Plasma therapy has been used for humans and horses for some time. It is now an available therapy for smaller pets, dogs and cats. PRP, an alternative to and sometimes used in conjunction with, stem cell therapy is a much more reasonably priced therapy, making it easier on the pockets of many people to treat their pets.
Platelets have been found to speed the healing of wounds, repair tissue and assist in clotting blood. PRP is used for muscle and joint injuries, repairing ligaments, tendons, bones and other tissues. It can slow the progression of osteoarthritis.
Blood is taken directly from the animal to be treated. The blood is then placed in a centrifuge which spins, separating all the components. The platelets are removed and activated with the addition of other substances. The PRP is then injected into the affected area of the pet’s body. If given intravenously, it will travel to the injury site. If the eye is involved, PRP gel is used to avoid the pain of an injection.
Since the platelets come from the animal’s own body, side effects if any are minimal and usually occur at the injection site.
If you are interested in using PRP therapy for your pet, ask your veterinarian about it and where it is available.
