Luma photobiomodulation is non-invasive, and many pets become very relaxed during treatment. Some even fall asleep.
That said, every pet is different. A pet may initially be unsure about the device, the sound, the sensation of the optical comb, being touched near a painful area, or simply being asked to stay still.
If your pet becomes restless, pulls away, vocalizes, or otherwise seems uncomfortable, pause the treatment and try the steps below.
First, Check the Basics
1. Confirm the Correct Pet and Protocol
Make sure you are viewing the correct pet profile in the MedcoVet app and following the protocol created specifically for that pet.
2. Double-Check the Treatment Location
Review the treatment map and make sure you are treating the recommended anatomical area.
If a particular location seems especially painful or sensitive, do not force the treatment. You can start with a more comfortable area and contact your clinician for guidance.
3. Check the Temperature of the Luma
The Luma naturally becomes warm during longer treatment sessions.
If it feels unusually warm, pause the session and allow the device to cool before continuing.
Important: The silver grid on the Luma helps release heat, so avoid covering it with your hand during treatment.
4. Use Gentle, Stationary Contact
Keep the Luma stationary at each treatment spot rather than brushing or continuously moving it.
Gently work the optical comb through the fur toward the skin. Do not apply more pressure than your pet comfortably tolerates.
Helping Your Pet Get Comfortable With the Luma
Some pets simply need more time to become familiar with the device. A gradual introduction can make a big difference.
Let Your Pet Investigate It First
Place the Luma nearby and allow your pet to sniff and explore it without immediately beginning treatment.
If your pet is food motivated, offer treats or feed them near the device so they begin to associate it with something positive.
Introduce the Luma Gradually
Try turning the Luma on and rewarding your pet without applying it at first.
Once your pet is comfortable with the device being on, gradually introduce brief contact before working up to a full treatment.
Start Somewhere Comfortable
If possible, begin on an area that is not particularly painful or sensitive.
This can help your pet learn that the Luma itself is not something to fear before you begin treating more uncomfortable areas.
Use Treats or Distractions
A high-value distraction can work very well during treatment.
For example:
Dogs may enjoy licking a small amount of frozen baby food or another favorite treat.
Cats may respond well to a lickable treat such as Churu.
Always choose something that is safe and appropriate for your pet.
Choose the Right Time
Try treating when your pet is naturally tired and relaxed, such as:
Near bedtime
While resting or napping
After appropriate exercise or activity
A relaxed pet will often be much more accepting of treatment.
Keep the Environment Calm
Choose a quiet area with minimal noise and movement.
If possible, avoid having other pets or multiple people nearby while your pet is getting accustomed to the Luma.
Work With Your Pet's Position
You do not necessarily need to reposition your pet just to reach every treatment spot.
If your pet is already resting comfortably, begin with the areas you can easily access in that position.
As your pet becomes more comfortable with treatment, you can gradually introduce other areas.
Use Touch Before Applying the Luma
Try gently rubbing or petting the treatment area before applying the Luma.
This can help prevent the device from being the first sensation your pet feels in a sensitive location.
Consider the Spacer Temporarily
If your pet seems particularly sensitive to the optical comb, you may temporarily use the spacer so they do not feel the comb directly.
As your pet becomes more comfortable, transition back to the optical comb so you can work through the fur and bring the light closer to the skin.
What If the Beep Bothers My Pet?
Some pets are especially sensitive to electronic sounds.
If you think the Luma's beep may be contributing to your pet's anxiety, contact MedcoVet Support. In certain circumstances, our technical team may be able to help disable the buzzer.
When to Contact Your Clinician
If you have tried these approaches and your pet continues to show discomfort, do not force the treatment.
Contact your clinician through the Clinician Chat in the upper-left corner of the MedcoVet app.
Your clinician can review:
The treatment location
Treatment time
Your technique
Your pet's response
Whether the protocol should be adjusted
For questions about the Luma device itself or other technical issues, contact MedcoVet Support.
A Little Patience Can Go a Long Way
The goal is for Luma treatment to become a calm, positive part of your pet's routine.
Some pets accept the Luma immediately. Others need a slower introduction and a little time to learn that treatment is safe and comfortable.
Going at your pet's pace can make the experience much easier for both of you.