Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a cutting-edge treatment in veterinary medicine that offers hope to dogs suffering from various injuries and chronic conditions. By using the natural healing properties of a dog’s own blood, or a donor’s blood, PRP therapy promotes tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and accelerates recovery. This innovative approach has gained attention for its applications in canine orthopedics, wound management, and beyond.

Watch this video to learn more about how Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy works for dogs, then continue reading:

In this blog, we’ll review:

• What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy?
• Applications of PRP Therapy in Dogs
• The PRP Procedure: What to Expect
• Benefits of PRP Therapy
• Scientific Evidence Supporting PRP in Veterinary Medicine
• Challenges & Limitations
• Choosing PRP Therapy For Your Dog
• The Future of PRP in Veterinary Medicine
• PRP Therapy at WoofDoctor on Wheels
• Conclusion
• Learn More
• References

What is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy?

PRP therapy involves drawing a small sample of a dog’s blood, processing it to concentrate platelets and growth factors, and then injecting the resulting solution into the injured or affected area. Platelets, a component of blood, contain proteins and bioactive molecules crucial for tissue repair and regeneration. Growth factors such as transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) play a pivotal role in promoting cell proliferation, collagen production, and inflammation modulation.

According to studies published in veterinary journals, PRP therapy has shown significant potential for addressing conditions like osteoarthritis, tendon injuries, and non-healing wounds in dogs.

Applications of PRP Therapy in Dogs

1. Osteoarthritis Management

Osteoarthritis is a common condition in aging dogs, characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. PRP therapy has emerged as a promising alternative or complement to traditional treatments like anti-inflammatory drugs and surgery. Research indicates that PRP injections can:

• Reduce joint inflammation.
• Promote cartilage repair.
• Improve overall joint function.

A study in the Veterinary Journal demonstrated significant improvement in pain and mobility in dogs treated with PRP for osteoarthritis, compared to those receiving placebo injections.

2. Tendon and Ligament Injuries

Active dogs are prone to injuries such as cranial cruciate ligament tears (the equivalent of the ACL in humans) or Achilles tendon damage. PRP therapy accelerates the healing process in these cases by:

• Enhancing collagen synthesis.
• Improving the tensile strength of repaired tissue.
• Reducing the formation of scar tissue.

Veterinarians often combine PRP with physical therapy to optimize recovery and minimize the risk of re-injury.

3. Wound Healing

Non-healing or chronic wounds can be a challenge to treat, especially in older dogs or those with underlying conditions like diabetes. PRP therapy stimulates wound closure by:

• Increasing vascularization.
• Promoting the formation of granulation tissue.
• Modulating inflammatory responses.

Veterinary clinics report faster recovery times and reduced reliance on antibiotics when PRP is used in wound management protocols.

4. Other Emerging Uses

PRP is being explored for:

• Fracture healing: By enhancing bone regeneration and reducing inflammation.
• Dermatological conditions: To support skin repair in cases of burns or surgical wounds.
• Neurological injuries: Preliminary studies suggest potential benefits for nerve repair.

The PRP Procedure: What to Expect

PRP therapy is minimally invasive and can often be performed during a single veterinary visit. When using your pet’s own blood the typical process includes:

1. Blood Collection: A small volume of blood is drawn from the dog, typically from a vein in the leg.
2. Processing: The blood is placed in a centrifuge to separate platelets and plasma from other components like red and white blood cells. This step concentrates the platelets, yielding the PRP solution.
3. Injection: The PRP is injected into the affected area under sterile conditions. In some cases, ultrasound guidance is used to ensure accurate delivery.
4. Aftercare: Most dogs can resume normal activities within a few days, though veterinarians may recommend rest and gradual reintroduction of exercise.

When using donor platelets steps 1 & 2 are skipped.

Benefits of PRP Therapy

1. Natural Healing

PRP leverages a dog’s biological materials, making it a natural and biocompatible treatment option. Unlike synthetic drugs, it poses minimal risk of side effects.

2. Reduced Reliance on Medications

By addressing the root cause of inflammation and tissue damage, PRP can reduce the need for long-term use of painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs, which often carry risks of side effects.

3. Convenience

The procedure is relatively quick, with processing and injection typically completed within an hour. Recovery times are shorter compared to surgical interventions.

4. Broad Applicability

From joint issues to soft tissue injuries and wounds, PRP offers a versatile treatment option that can be tailored to the specific needs of each patient.

Scientific Evidence Supporting PRP in Veterinary Medicine

Numerous studies and clinical trials have highlighted the efficacy of PRP therapy in dogs. Key findings include:

• A study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that dogs with osteoarthritis showed significant improvement in pain scores and mobility following PRP injections.
• Research in BMC Veterinary Research demonstrated accelerated healing of tendon injuries in dogs treated with PRP, compared to conventional therapies.
• Case studies from veterinary clinics report faster wound healing and reduced complications in dogs undergoing PRP therapy for chronic ulcers and surgical incisions.

Challenges & Limitations

While PRP therapy offers many advantages, it is not without challenges:

• Cost: The procedure can be expensive, though prices vary depending on the clinic and the complexity of the case.
• Variability in Outcomes: The effectiveness of PRP may depend on factors such as the severity of the condition, the dog’s age, and overall health.
• Limited Availability: Not all veterinary practices offer PRP therapy, as it requires specialized equipment and training.

Choosing PRP Therapy for Your Dog

If you’re considering PRP therapy for your dog, consult with a veterinarian experienced in regenerative medicine. They will evaluate your pet’s condition, discuss potential benefits and risks, and develop a tailored treatment plan.

Questions to ask your veterinarian include:

• Is PRP therapy suitable for my dog’s specific condition?
• What are the expected outcomes?
• How many treatments will be needed?
• Are there alternative therapies to consider?

The Future of PRP in Veterinary Medicine

As research continues to uncover new applications and refine techniques, PRP therapy is poised to become a cornerstone of regenerative medicine for dogs. Advances in technology and greater accessibility are expected to make this innovative treatment more widely available.

In the years to come, PRP could play a role in:

• Preventative care for active or aging dogs.
• Enhancing recovery from routine surgeries.
• Expanding into other areas such as dental health and cardiovascular repair.

PRP Therapy at WoofDoctor on Wheels

Why Choose WoofDoctor on Wheels for Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy?

At WoofDoctor on Wheels, we bring regenerative medicine directly to your doorstep, making advanced care accessible and stress-free for your pet. Here’s what sets us apart:

1. Comprehensive Regenerative Medicine Options: We don’t just treat symptoms; we focus on healing. From Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy to laser therapy and Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy, we offer a range of innovative, research-backed treatments tailored to your pet’s needs.
2. Mobile Veterinary Services: With our fully equipped mobile unit, your pet can receive PRP therapy without leaving the comfort of their home. This reduces the stress associated with clinic visits and enhances outcomes by keeping your pet in a familiar environment. We perform the procedure in our mobile truck, which you can watch below.
3. Open Communication: Your pet’s care is a partnership. We take the time to discuss treatment options, anesthesia protocols, and pain management, so you feel confident in your decisions.

Choosing WoofDoctor on Wheels means choosing expertise, convenience, and compassionate care for your pet.

Watch this video of Dr Doug giving PRP to his dog, Nemo:

Cost of PRP Therapy at WoofDoctor on Wheels

When considering PRP therapy for your pet, it’s important to understand what goes into the procedure and why it’s worth the investment.

1. Comprehensive Pre-Procedure Bloodwork: We perform detailed pre-op bloodwork, including: a complete blood count (measuring the red & white blood cells & platelet levels), an extensive chemistry (measuring the liver, kidney values, & electrolytes), and clotting times (measuring how quickly blood clots).  Cats may also include a test called the proBNP which measures stretch & strain on the heart muscle, as cats can have heart disease w/o signs of it on their preoperative physical exams. If a pet has changes to any of these metrics, it may change the drugs we use, or may even lead us to delay surgery to investigate further. If blood work is not performed and we do not have this information, it could result in inappropriate drug selection or surgical complications (like excessive bleeding) that were avoidable. These tests help us tailor the safest approach for your pet.
2. Anesthetic Safety & Monitoring: PRP therapy requires anesthesia, and we prioritize your pet’s safety at every step. We use a multi-modal approach to anesthesia, meaning we’ll use multiple different drugs to achieve a good plane of anesthesia, which allows us to use lower doses of each drug. This reduces the risks of cardiac and respiratory complications during and after surgery. These drug combinations must be tailored to each patient to achieve the desired level of sedation while reducing the undesired side effects. We often also use a medication to reduce the risk of vomiting, which can lead to serious complications like aspiration pneumonia. We follow AAHA and AVDC protocols and work as a team with certified veterinary technicians. IV catheters are placed in all pets, and fluids are administered throughout the procedure to maintain blood pressure and provide intravenous access for additional drugs.  These protocols, supported by state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and skilled technicians, ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.
3. Tailored Pain Management: Our multi-layered pain control plan includes pre-meds, nerve blocks, and at-home medications. These measures add to the cost but ensure your pet remains comfortable throughout the process.
4. Skilled Team & Equipment: Your pet’s procedure is overseen by a highly trained team, including Dr. Doug, and licensed or registered veterinary technicians (LVT or RVT) to help monitor the patient at each stage of anesthesia & recovery.  LVTs & RVTs have received specialized training in anesthetic drug use, anesthesia monitoring, &  how to respond during an anesthetic complication.
5. Convenience & Reduced Stress: Our mobile service eliminates the need for clinic visits, saving you time and reducing stress for your pet. This personalized approach is a premium service designed to enhance your pet’s experience and recovery.

Below is an estimate, including all expenses, for PRP Therapy.

 

While PRP therapy may seem costly, each step is designed to prioritize your pet’s health and safety, offering the best chance for effective pain relief and healing. Investing in a thorough, safe, and compassionate procedure is an investment in your pet’s well-being and quality of life.

Conclusion

Platelet-rich plasma therapy represents a significant advancement in veterinary medicine, offering a safe, natural, and effective treatment option for a variety of canine conditions. By harnessing the healing power of a dog’s own blood, PRP therapy not only addresses symptoms but also promotes long-term recovery and improved quality of life.

Whether your dog is struggling with arthritis, recovering from an injury, or dealing with a stubborn wound, PRP therapy may provide the relief and healing they need. Speak with your veterinarian to explore this promising treatment and give your furry friend the best chance at a happy, active life.

Author: Cheryl Miller, RVT, CVBL, FFCP (Veterinary), VCC

 

If you’d like to schedule an appointment or discuss PRP for your pet, please call or text us at (843) 966-3362. You can also schedule an appointment online. You can also schedule a virtual appointment directly with Cheryl here.

 

Learn More

Think your pet might be in pain? To take our online pain assessment to know for sure

Read our blog to learn more about other common conditions for which your pet may be at risk:

• Signs, Prevalence, & Risk of OA in dogs & cats.
• How OA is Diagnosed & Treated in dogs & cats.
• Why Your Pet’s Weight Could  Add or Subtract Years of Life

Read our blog to learn more about pain relief for your pet:

• Everything You Need to Know About CBD for cats & dogs.
• How Laser Therapy Works & Why It’s Our Most Popular Pain Relief
• How Pulsed Electromagnetic Therapy (PEMF) Works & Why Dr Doug Uses It For His Pets

To see all the products we recommend to help keep your pet strong, mobile, and active:

• Cats
  • Joint products here.
  • Activity products here.
  • Healthy cat treats here.
  • Automatic feeders here.

• Dogs
  • Joint products here.
  • Enrichment products here.
  • Healthy dog treats here.
  • Automatic feeders here.

• Cats & Dogs
  • Joint products here.
  • Food & pet scales here.
  • 24/7 remote monitoring (health, activity, GPS tracking) here.

Our mission is to provide convenient, fear-free, personalized pet care and our blog allows us to share important educational content. To support our efforts, this page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase after using them, we earn a small commission, which helps support this blog at no cost to you. Keep in mind, we only link to quality products we use ourselves and feel are beneficial for our clients and patients.