How Does Prolozone Therapy Work?

Lameness in animals is often caused by joint instability or laxity, typically resulting from trauma such as excessive jumping, rapid stopping, or sharp turns. This instability leads to joint weakness, inflammation, and pain. Prolozone therapy is effective whether or not the joint has developed arthritis (degenerative joint disease), as inflammation of the joint capsule causes more pain than calcification. This makes Prolozone therapy particularly beneficial for older canine patients.

The therapy creates a controlled, low-grade inflammatory response—not enough to exacerbate soreness, but sufficient to stimulate the production of mesodermal cells. These cells enhance the strength and thickness of soft tissue components, effectively making this treatment a form of stem cell therapy. The increased tissue strength and thickness contribute to joint stability, thereby reducing pain as stability is restored.

Which Injuries Respond Best to Prolozone Therapy, and How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Prolozone therapy typically tightens the joint by approximately 22% with each injection. Optimal results are usually achieved after 3 to 5 treatments, typically administered at monthly intervals, depending on the specific joint involved. Knee injuries, such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and patellar luxation injuries, as well as arthritic hip joints, tend to respond very well. Arthritic shoulders, carpi (wrists), and elbows (in early stages) also show significant improvement. Additionally, weak backs and necks can respond positively to Prolozone therapy.

What Does a Treatment Involve?

The treatment begins with a thorough examination of the dog, followed by the development of an individualized treatment plan based on the injection site. Depending on the injection location, Prolozone therapy may be performed with the dog awake or under short-acting, reversible sedation. The affected joint is treated with a mixture of Procaine, Dextrose, and various homeopathic substances that support joint health. If sedation is used, it is reversed immediately after the procedure. The entire treatment process usually takes one hour or less.

Let us help your pet move more freely and live pain-free. Reach out today to learn more about how prolozone therapy can fit into your pet’s overall wellness plan. To request an appointment, call us at (775) 853-6900 or use our contact form.

Pet Prolozone Therapy FAQ

Pet prolozone therapy is a non-surgical treatment that uses ozone therapy combined with healing injectables to relieve pain and improve joint stability. The process involves injecting a mixture of ozone gas and supportive substances like procaine and dextrose into the affected joint. This stimulates a mild, controlled inflammatory response, which activates the healing process, encourages connective tissue repair, and strengthens the joint over time. That’s how prolozone therapy works to treat the underlying cause of joint pain instead of just masking the symptoms.

Prolozone therapy is especially beneficial for dogs suffering from degenerative joint disease, arthritis, chronic inflammation, ligament injuries (such as ACL tears), and joint pain related to hip dysplasia or aging. It’s also helpful for pets recovering from surgery or dealing with mobility issues due to past injuries. The therapy helps stabilize the joints, promote healing, and improve overall comfort and function.

While NSAIDs are commonly used to manage pain, they can cause harmful side effects over time, especially in dogs with liver disease, kidney issues, or sensitive stomachs. Pet prolozone therapy offers a natural, drug-free alternative that doesn’t burden the organs. It helps relieve pain and inflammation while supporting tissue regeneration, making it ideal for pets who cannot safely tolerate conventional medications or for owners looking to reduce long-term reliance on drugs.

Ozone therapy works by stimulating circulation, reducing inflammation, and increasing oxygen delivery to damaged tissues. When injected into affected joints, ozone encourages a localized response that accelerates tissue repair and reduces discomfort. By enhancing the healing process naturally, ozone not only helps relieve pain but also promotes healing from within—without the toxic load of synthetic drugs.

During a pet prolozone therapy session, your dog will receive a mild, reversible sedative to keep them relaxed. The affected joint is then injected with a combination of healing agents and ozone therapy. The whole process takes about 30–40 minutes, and most dogs are up and moving shortly afterward. Some dogs show improvement after one treatment, but most need 3–5 sessions spaced a few weeks apart for lasting relief from joint pain and chronic inflammation.

Absolutely. At Mountain View Animal Hospital, we use pet prolozone therapy as part of a holistic treatment strategy. This may include physical therapy, joint supplements, fish oil, and dietary changes. Because prolozone helps promote healing and improve joint function naturally, it complements other therapies and may help reduce the need for medications—especially for pets with conditions like degenerative joint disease or complications related to liver disease.