Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is an innovative treatment that uses a pet’s own blood to help heal damaged joints and reduce the pain of arthritis. By concentrating and reinjecting the platelets — which are packed with natural growth factors — PRP encourages the body to repair inflamed tissues and restore comfort and mobility. At Animal Surgical Care of PA, we’re proud to offer PRP therapy as a safe, minimally invasive option to improve your pet’s quality of life without the need for long-term medications or extensive surgery.
How PRP Therapy Works:
The process begins with a small blood sample drawn from your pet. This sample is placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and plasma from other blood components. The resulting platelet-rich plasma is then carefully injected into the arthritic joint or affected area. These platelets release healing proteins that stimulate tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and promote new cell growth. Because the treatment uses your pet’s own blood, there’s virtually no risk of allergic reaction or rejection.
Benefits of PRP for Arthritis:
PRP therapy can significantly reduce joint pain and stiffness while improving range of motion. It works to restore joint health naturally by enhancing cartilage regeneration and slowing the progression of arthritis. Many pets show noticeable improvement in comfort and activity levels within weeks of treatment. PRP can also be used alongside other therapies, such as laser therapy, joint supplements, or physical rehabilitation, for even greater results.
Ideal Candidates for PRP Therapy:
Pets diagnosed with osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease, tendon or ligament injuries, or those recovering from orthopedic surgery can benefit greatly from PRP therapy. It’s an excellent choice for dogs and cats who are not ideal candidates for surgery or for owners seeking a regenerative medicine approach to chronic pain. Our veterinarians will evaluate your pet’s condition, medical history, and lifestyle to determine if PRP is the right fit.
The PRP Treatment Experience:
PRP therapy is performed under light sedation or anesthesia for your pet’s comfort. Most procedures take less than an hour, and pets typically return home the same day. Post-treatment care is simple — limited activity for a few days followed by gradual return to normal movement. Over the next several weeks, you may notice your pet walking, playing, and climbing stairs with greater ease as their joints heal and inflammation subsides.
Long-Term Results and Next Steps:
The benefits of PRP therapy can last several months to a year, depending on your pet’s overall health and the severity of their arthritis. Some pets benefit from repeat treatments as part of a long-term pain management plan. At Animal Surgical Care of PA, our team customizes every PRP treatment protocol to your pet’s unique needs to ensure the best possible outcome. If your dog or cat is slowing down due to arthritis, contact us today to learn how PRP therapy can help them move comfortably again.