Photobiomodulation (PBM) is the clinical term for red and near-infrared light therapy. Specific wavelengths of light penetrate tissue and interact with cytochrome c oxidase — an enzyme in the mitochondrial membrane. This triggers a cascade of natural repair processes: increased ATP production, reduced oxidative stress, improved blood flow, and accelerated cellular healing.

The result is real, measurable, and drug-free. It doesn't mask pain — it addresses the cellular environment causing it. The American Animal Hospital Association now describes photobiomodulation as "becoming standard of care in veterinary practice."

A 2022 randomized controlled trial published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research showed photobiomodulation outperformed meloxicam — a prescription NSAID — for reducing pain in dogs with hip osteoarthritis. 82% of treated dogs reduced their pain medication by at least half. Zero adverse effects were reported.

Over 6,000 peer-reviewed studies on photobiomodulation have been published on PubMed. This is not a wellness trend — it is published, peer-reviewed science with decades of clinical application in both human and veterinary medicine.

660nm Red Light — targets the dermal layer and surface tissue. Supports wound healing, skin conditions, coat health, and surface-level inflammation. This is the visible red glow you see during sessions.

850nm Near-Infrared — penetrates 5–10mm into tissue, reaching muscles, nerves, and joint capsules. The primary therapeutic wavelength for chronic joint pain and deep muscle inflammation.

880nm Deep Infrared — the deepest-penetrating wavelength, reaching periosteal tissue and bone. Most effective for arthritis, hip dysplasia, and conditions originating at the joint level. Available in the Pro Vest Back & Chest.

Most customers notice subtle behavioral improvements — less hesitation getting up, improved ease on stairs, reduced post-walk stiffness — within 1–2 weeks of consistent daily sessions. More significant mobility changes are typically observed at the 3–4 week mark.

Consistency matters more than session length. A 20-minute daily session is significantly more effective than occasional longer sessions. Think of it like physical therapy — regular, repeated application is what produces lasting results.

Fit the vest onto your dog using the adjustable clip-buckle straps, power it on, and let it run. The built-in 20-minute auto-off timer handles the rest — no guessing, no over-treating. Most dogs settle immediately and will nap through the session.

Sessions can be done once daily. You don't need to hold the device in place or supervise continuously — your dog can lie on their bed, the couch, or the floor during the session. The vest stays in place on its own.

Photobiomodulation has an excellent safety profile. Clinical studies have reported zero adverse effects at the wavelengths and durations used in our devices. It is non-thermal — the light does not heat tissue to damaging levels.

The 20-minute auto-off timer is built in specifically to prevent over-treatment. We recommend consulting your veterinarian before beginning any new treatment protocol, particularly if your animal is on existing medication or recovering from surgery.

The vast majority of dogs tolerate the vest immediately. The fit is secure but not restrictive, and the device operates silently — there is no noise, vibration, or discomfort associated with the therapy itself.

Maya — our 16-year-old Puggle and the reason this brand exists — settled into her vest on the first session and now naps through every one. For dogs that need an adjustment period, we recommend starting with shorter sessions in the first few days and building up to the full 20 minutes.

Solaura Recovery Wrap ($149) — best for targeting a specific joint area. Ideal if your dog has a localized issue — one hip, a knee, a shoulder — or if you want an entry-level option to try before committing to a vest.

Solaura Back Therapy Vest ($219) — best for age-related mobility decline, general back and lumbar stiffness, or dogs who need consistent full-back coverage daily. This is Maya's vest. Available in S, M, and L.

Solaura Pro Vest — Back & Chest ($269) — best for dogs with widespread inflammation, post-surgical recovery, hip dysplasia, or chronic joint conditions requiring maximum coverage and multiple wavelengths. One size fits most medium-large dogs (30–80 lbs).

Use your dog's body measurements — not their weight — for the most accurate fit. Measure while your dog is standing.

Size S: Neck 40cm / 15.7" — Chest 58cm / 22.8" — Back 61cm / 24"
Size M: Neck 50cm / 19.7" — Chest 63cm / 24.8" — Back 90cm / 35.4"
Size L: Neck 60cm / 23.6" — Chest 126cm / 49.6" — Back 87cm / 34.3"

If your dog falls between sizes, size up for a more comfortable fit. If you're unsure, email us at hello@solaurapet.com with your dog's measurements and we'll advise.

Yes. Photobiomodulation works across species — the cellular mechanisms are the same. The Recovery Wrap is particularly versatile for cats and smaller animals. The vests are suitable for larger cats and small horses with appropriate sizing consideration.

Equine use is well-established — laser therapy has been standard practice in performance horse care for over a decade. The same wavelengths used in veterinary equine clinics are delivered by our devices at home.

We offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on all products. If your dog doesn't show improvement — or for any reason at all — contact us within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. No questions asked, no return shipping labels to chase.

We stand behind these products because we use them ourselves every single day. On a 16-year-old Puggle named Maya.