That veterinary medicine is not only a profession but also a true passion for Dr. Annalisa Previti is evident not only from her educational background, but also from her: a graduate of the University of Messina, she earned a PhD in "Veterinary Medical Sciences," a specialisation in "Pathology and Clinical Practice of Pet Animals," and a specialisation in "Food Inspection," and is currently a resident at ECAWBM-AWEL (European College of Animal Welfare and Behavioural Medicine - sub- Animal Welfare, ethics and law). It all begins with her personal story:
“I decided to become a veterinarian at a young age, when I took my American Cocker Spaniel to the vet for the first time for parvovirus. Sadly, Pepito didn't make it, but from that moment I understood that my destiny was to save other dogs like him”, says Previti.
A destiny that has also led her to become Medical Director of her own clinic in Villafranca Tirrena, Veterinary Medical Director at the ASP of Taormina, Adjunct Professor of Animal Welfare at the Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, and author of numerous scientific publications. Among the most recent, a review in the journal "Lasers in Medical Science" on the use of MLS® Laser Therapy in human and veterinary medicine.
A clinical adoption born from research
How did the partnership with MLS® Laser Therapy begin?
I became interested in laser therapy when studying its benefits for research purposes and, later, I decided to embrace it for my own practice because I firmly believed in its effectiveness. Among the determining factors that led me to adopt the MLS® Laser Therapy device for my practice, the ease of administration to patients certainly played a significant role. As did the lack of side effects, especially when compared to those associated with medications used for the same conditions that can be treated with laser. Last but not least, the reliability of ASAveterinary, along with the expertise and professionalism of its personnel, positively impressed me. This latter value should not be underestimated, nor should that of the device used for its application, both in terms of technology and effectiveness.
If you had to summarise the strengths of the MLS® Laser Therapy that supports you in your daily practice, which would you emphasise?
Its therapeutic efficacy in reducing inflammation and pain, and its value for tissue regeneration, are certainly unparalleled. Furthermore, in strictly practical terms, its non-invasive nature allows me to use it on a variety of patient conditions without the need for sedation or anaesthesia. Its versatility, which allows me to use it to treat orthopaedic, dermatological, neurological, and odontostomatological conditions in various animal species, is a significant factor. As is its safety, which makes it suitable for all inflammatory and/or degenerative pathological conditions. While its ease of use is certainly helpful for both me and my patient, its scientific validity is an important credential for the owners of the animals on whom I use it, which is why I have decided to also offer my scientific support on the subject.
Cases that make a difference
What disorders do you mainly use it for?
In my practice, the dermatological caseload is quite extensive and MLS® Laser Therapy has confirmed its therapeutic excellence precisely in this specific area. Compared to my experience, however, MLS® has provided excellent results in controlling oral cavity diseases in cats, anal gland disorders in dogs, and muscular or neurological pain.
Can you recall any cases in which MLS® has proven effective?
The caseload is truly extensive, because I now use the laser every day in my practice, but also outside. I'm thinking, for example, of lameness and skin lesions in performance horses, which I've treated with MLS®. One emblematic case, however, concerns a German Shepherd who was a candidate for hip replacement for significant hip dysplasia. Despite not being able to undergo surgery, Kyra is now in excellent condition thanks to MLS® Laser Therapy, which has now been applied to her as "maintenance" once a month for a year. How could I forget Aaron, another German Shepherd whose severe licking wound that had persisted for months was treated with just five MLS® sessions. Nerina, a European kitten, was able to heal the gingivostomatitis that prevented her from eating thanks to five MLS® sessions.
How do owners react to these results?
Their conviction in the effectiveness of the therapy, understandably, comes simultaneously with the first tangible results that dispel their initial hesitation. This hesitation is also overcome by seeing how their dog, cat, or horse responds to the treatment. In fact, the animals are completely at ease when MLS® is applied, especially after the first few sessions.
Training? A professional duty
Given that field experience allows you to try out the use of MLS® in multiple directions, how useful do you think it is to attend training courses focused on specific disorders or courses to learn how to maximise the effectiveness of laser therapy?
It's crucial! Our training is never complete, and staying up to date is a must to ensure maximum results and the best care for our patients.
ASAveterinary has always emphasised the importance of supporting the clinical use of MLS® Laser Therapy with constant and targeted training. To support professionals in maximising therapeutic effectiveness, we have developed the EDO ASAlaser Academia training portal: a platform dedicated to veterinarians, packed with courses, clinical cases, scientific insights, and practical tools.
Want to explore the potential of MLS® in your practice?
