Ozone Therapy for Dogs: Does It Actually Work?
Ozone therapy is an alternative therapy to help treat ailments like inflammation in the joints, Lyme disease, dental issues, and cancer. It works by increasing oxygen flow which can help the immune system treat and heal certain parts of the body. So, does ozone therapy actually work for dogs?
What is Ozone Therapy?
Ozone therapy is an alternative treatment purported to help pets heal from illnesses. The treatment was conceived by Nikola Tesla in 1896 when he patented the first ozone generator. It was brought to Loyola University in 1911 and was used to heal people from many ailments such as:
- Pneumonia
- Insomnia
- Tuberculosis
- Diabetes
- Hay fever
- Tinnitus
- Anemia
- Bronchitis
In recent years, ozone therapy for pets has become more common as a complementary or alternative treatment for a variety of conditions. While there is more scientific research being conducted to support the benefits and effectiveness, ozone therapy holds promise as a potential treatment for certain conditions in pets.
Many pet owners and veterinarians report positive outcomes from using ozone therapy, however, it is always important to consult with your veterinarian about all treatment options.
How Does Canine Ozone Therapy Work?
It was not until 1977 in Russia that ozone therapy was used on dogs. Ozone therapy for dogs involves the administration of ozone gas, a form of oxygen that contains three oxygen atoms instead of the usual two.
The therapy works by introducing the ozone gas into the dog’s body in various ways, such as through injections, topical applications, or intravenous infusion. Once inside the body, ozone therapy helps to increase oxygen delivery to tissues, stimulate the immune system, and reduce inflammation.
How Can Veterinary Ozone Therapy Heal Inflammation? 
Ozone therapy is said to help treat inflammation in the joints and decrease swelling in painful areas. It can assist the body in healing more quickly and efficiently, and many veterinary practitioners claim that it works for various conditions. The following include some ways in which ozone therapy is said to heal pain and inflammation:
It Helps with Circulation
Ozone therapy increases red blood cell activity in body cells and boosts nitric oxide. It can even decrease coronary artery disease and improve cholesterol levels. It also helps the liver detoxify and eliminate waste from the blood, supporting the liver and encouraging better circulation. Ozone therapy has also been known to help pets heal following an injury or surgery.
It Helps Decrease Infections
Ozone therapy can act by improving and facilitating the healing of wounds, and it can prevent skin infections. It can be utilized as a wound flush to wash away and destroy bacteria in the affected area, infusing oxygen within the tissue. Simply put, ozone essentially cleans and detoxifies the wound. Ozone can be helpful in certain situations, like when a dog gets hot spots following a tick bite.
It Helps with Immunity
This treatment helps strengthen and activate the immune system by encouraging the production of cytokines. Cytokines are vital in controlling the development and activity of additional immune system cells and blood cells. When cytokines are distributed, the immune system can work properly. Cytokines influence the growth of cells that assist with a healthy immune system and inflammation responses.
How Does Ozone Therapy Help with Cancer in Pets?
Ozone therapy is controversial because many say there is insufficient proof that it can help with cancer. However, others say they can see a marked difference in their dog or cat after receiving treatment.
The following include some of the ways that ozone therapy is said to help dogs with cancer:
It Decreases Cancer Cells
Cancer cells are not able to exist in a healthy, oxygenated environment. Ozone therapy is said to contribute to the destruction of cancerous cells and may form new, healthy cells. The treatment does not negatively affect healthy cells in the body, making it an appropriate cancer treatment.
It Stimulates Healthy Cells
Some research indicates that ozone therapy encourages the production of vital immune cells, such as cytokines and white blood cells, including the cytokine called Tumor Necrosis Factor, which plays a significant role in cell death. Since cancer is an inflammatory disease, ozone therapy can be ideal for helping to reduce inflammation and stimulating healthy cells.
It Decreases Oxidative Stress
Ozone increases free radical production in cancer cells, which is toxic to cancer cells. It helps remove toxins in the body, preventing tissue damage and assisting with cell repair. The injections promote higher energy and improved immunity. It also helps with antioxidant response in healthy tissue and stimulates the body’s natural antioxidant defense systems.
What Other Illnesses Can Ozone Therapy Heal?
While some dismiss the proclamations that ozone therapy works, many have seen positive changes due to utilizing it for their pets. Ozone therapy has a plethora of different applications for pets. It has shown promise for issues relating to inflammation, injuries, cancer, and many other health ailments such as:
- Neurological issues
- Chronic or acute Lyme disease
- Upper respiratory conditions
- Canine dental issues
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Ear issues like a bacterial infection
- Eye issues such as glaucoma
This therapy can also help with heart disease and liver or kidney issues. Ozone therapy can help the pet’s immune system perform the necessary functions to prevent these illnesses and provide the ability to fight them if they are in progress.
Conclusion
Although there may be more research needed before FDA approval, many veterinarians and pet parents alike have seen success with ozone therapy in their pets. Whether you want to try ozone therapy for your beloved companion is a decision only you and your trusted veterinarian can make.
Pawsitive Integrative Veterinary Care is one of the few specialty vets in the Midwest that provides ozone therapy and is properly trained to administer it. To learn more, give us a call at (574) 256-1871 or schedule an appointment!