The science behind light therapy for pets

The science

The science behind light therapy for pets

Red and near-infrared light therapy has been studied in veterinary and human research for many years. Petorra uses these same general wavelength categories in wearable formats designed for simple home use.

Published research describes the technology in general. Petorra products are designed for supportive home use only and are not a replacement for veterinary advice or treatment.

When specific wavelengths of light reach your pet's tissue, they are absorbed by an enzyme inside the mitochondria called cytochrome c oxidase. This supports the cell's natural energy production, which in turn supports the body's own repair, recovery, and comfort processes.

It is the same technology used in thousands of veterinary clinics and rehabilitation centres worldwide. Petorra brings these wavelengths home in wearable formats designed for short, daily sessions.

For supportive home use alongside your pet's regular veterinary care.

The wavelengths

Why 660nm and 850nm

These two wavelengths sit within what researchers call the "optical window" — the range of light that can penetrate biological tissue and interact with cells at the mitochondrial level.

They are among the most widely studied wavelengths in the photobiomodulation research literature, referenced across thousands of peer-reviewed publications in both veterinary and human medicine. Key veterinary studies include Looney et al. (2018), Draper et al. (2012), and Barale et al. (2020), published in The Canadian Veterinary Journal, Journal of Small Animal Practice, and Open Veterinary Journal respectively.

Published research describes the technology in general. Individual results may vary.

01

660nm red light

Absorbed in the surface tissue layers. Has strong absorption by cytochrome c oxidase — the primary photoacceptor inside the cell responsible for energy production. Studies at this wavelength have examined circulation support, cell renewal, and skin and surface-level tissue response in both veterinary and human settings. (Avci et al., Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 2013)

02

850nm near-infrared light

Penetrates deeper into muscle, tendon, joint, and bone tissue. A randomised controlled trial, in veterinary research settings showed improved comfort and lameness scores after sessions using near-infrared photobiomodulation. (Looney et al., The Canadian Veterinary Journal, 2018)

03

Combined dual-wavelength delivery

Both wavelengths are delivered simultaneously, providing coverage across multiple tissue depths in a single session. In a 2012 veterinary study, dogs receiving combined-wavelength photobiomodulation after spinal surgery returned to walking sooner than untreated controls. This study is one part of the broader research on light-based wellness support (Draper et al., Journal of Small Animal Practice, 2012)

At the cellular level

What published research has documented

When the right wavelengths of light reach your pet's cells, published research has documented the following cellular responses.

01

Cellular energy production

Light absorbed by mitochondria supports the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) — the energy source cells use to repair, regenerate, and maintain normal function. This mechanism has been documented across thousands of published studies. (Hamblin, Mechanisms and Applications of the Anti-inflammatory Effects of Photobiomodulation, 2017)

02

Natural inflammatory response

Research has documented associations between photobiomodulation and modulation of inflammatory signalling pathways, including changes in pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. This is one reason veterinary professionals have used light therapy as part of comfort and recovery plans. (Hamblin, PMC, 2017)

03

Circulation support

Published studies have noted associations between photobiomodulation and changes in local blood flow and nitric oxide release, supporting oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissue. (Lohr et al., Nitric Oxide, 2009)

04

Tissue repair processes

Research in veterinary and human medicine has examined the role of photobiomodulation in supporting collagen production, cell migration, and tissue remodelling — part of the body's natural response to injury, surgery, or age-related changes. (Avci et al., Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 2013)

These are documented findings from published research on photobiomodulation technology. They are not claims about any specific product.

Our products

Choose the format that fits your pet's needs

Two wearable light therapy formats for different coverage needs. Both use 660nm + 850nm dual-wavelength LEDs, auto-timer, and cordless rechargeable design.

Joint Wrap

Joint Wrap

Targeted 660nm + 850nm light therapy for specific joints. Wraps securely around knees, elbows, hocks, and hips with velcro. 15-minute auto-timer sessions. Most dogs settle or fall asleep during use.

Targeted fit · 15-minute sessions · Cordless · Dogs and cats

Light Therapy Coat

Light Therapy Coat

Broad-coverage 660nm + 850nm light therapy across the back, spine, and hips in a single 20-minute session. Adjustable straps, three light modes, and two size options for a comfortable, secure fit.

Broad coverage · Two sizes · Three modes · Cordless rechargeable

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