The diagnosis lands hard. Your dog is bunny-hopping, slow to stand, and sore after exercise — and you have just been told the hips are dysplastic. Surgery has probably been mentioned, and it is expensive and daunting. What you actually want to know is: does my dog definitely need it, and what can be done in the meantime?
At RehabVet — Singapore's first dedicated veterinary rehabilitation clinic — hip dysplasia is core caseload, both conservatively managed and after surgery. Rehabilitation cannot reshape a dysplastic hip, and we will not pretend otherwise. What it can do is build the muscle that stabilises and unloads that joint, control the pain, and slow the secondary arthritis that abnormal loading causes. For many dogs that is enough to stay comfortable and active long-term. No referral is needed to get an honest assessment.
Front legs, not back? Forelimb lameness and stiff elbows in a growing large-breed dog point elsewhere — see elbow dysplasia. Already had surgery? See FHO recovery or total hip replacement recovery.
This page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or emergency care. Always consult your primary veterinarian or a rehabilitation veterinarian before starting treatment. If your pet cannot walk, has sudden paralysis, severe pain, or breathing difficulty, seek urgent veterinary attention.
Also known as: canine hip dysplasia (CHD); developmental dysplasia of the hip; dysplastic hips.
Hip dysplasia describes abnormal development of the coxofemoral joint: a shallow acetabulum, poor femoral head coverage, and joint laxity. Abnormal motion damages cartilage and drives progressive osteoarthritis. Large and giant breeds are predisposed, but any dog can be affected. Genetics play a major role; growth rate, nutrition, and body weight influence clinical expression.
Signs may appear in young dogs with laxity-related pain or later as osteoarthritis dominates. Bunny-hopping, difficulty rising, and exercise intolerance are common owner observations. Diagnosis is veterinary (exam plus radiographs; distraction index or other scoring in screening contexts).
Management is multimodal: weight control, pain relief, activity modification, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and — when indicated — surgical options (juvenile procedures, FHO, total hip replacement). Rehabilitation aims to improve comfort and function, not to reshape a dysplastic joint into a normal one.
Signs vary by severity and by whether your pet is a dog or cat. Owners of dogs often notice:
A rehab assessment evaluates gait, hip range, muscle mass, pain behaviours, and functional tasks. Findings guide land-based physiotherapy to strengthen gluteals, core, and hind-limb support without flare-ups.
Hydrotherapy and underwater treadmill work (when appropriate) allow strengthening with buoyancy-reduced load — often helpful for dysplastic and arthritic hips.
Manual therapy, acupuncture, and other modalities may be layered for comfort. Home programmes and environmental changes (ramps, traction, paced walks) extend benefits between visits.
Rehabilitation plans at RehabVet are individualised after a veterinary assessment. We coordinate with your primary vet when imaging, medication, or surgery is part of the overall plan.
Two distinct pathways run through the clinic — conservative management for dogs not going to surgery (or not yet), and structured post-surgical rehabilitation after FHO, total hip replacement or a juvenile procedure. The assessment determines which one your dog is on.
Assessment and honest triage
Gait analysis, hip range of motion, muscle mass measurement over the gluteals and thighs, pain scoring, and review of your radiographs and any surgical opinion. If we think your dog genuinely needs a surgical referral, we will say so. If conservative management is reasonable to try first, we will tell you what to expect from it and how we will measure whether it is working.
Pain and inflammation control
Class 4 therapeutic laser, manual therapy for the compensating lumbar and hind-limb muscles, and acupuncture where appropriate. Comfort comes first because a painful dog cannot load the limb well enough to build muscle.
Targeted strengthening
Gluteal, core and hind-limb strengthening through controlled therapeutic exercise, plus hydrotherapy or the underwater treadmill for suitable dogs — buoyancy lets the hips work with much of the bodyweight taken off. This is the part that changes long-term function.
Maintenance and home programme
Body condition control (excess weight is the single biggest modifiable load on a dysplastic hip), home exercises, flooring and ramp advice, and paced exercise planning. We reassess periodically and step frequency up or down with your dog's needs.
Depending on your pet’s examination findings, comfort, and goals, a plan may include one or more of the following:
Goals are set for the individual patient. Typical aims may include (not guarantees — outcomes vary):
We do not publish invented success percentages. Progress is tracked clinically (gait, strength, range of motion, pain behaviours, and home function) and plans are adjusted over time.
Large and giant breeds are over-represented — German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Rottweilers, Great Danes, Saint Bernards and Bernese Mountain Dogs among them. It is not exclusive to them: medium breeds and some small breeds are diagnosed too, and mixed-breed dogs are certainly affected. Breed raises risk; it does not determine severity or outcome.
Yes, and it is arguably more important then. After FHO, total hip replacement or a juvenile procedure, structured rehabilitation limits muscle atrophy, restores range of motion, and retrains a normal gait pattern rather than letting the compensations set in. Timing is decided with your surgeon — gentle work often starts within the first week or two, with progression as healing allows.
No. You can book an assessment directly. Bring radiographs or their report, any surgical notes, and a current medication list. We keep your primary vet or surgeon in the loop so the rehabilitation plan sits alongside their medical or post-operative instructions rather than cutting across them.
No. Dysplasia is a structural developmental condition. Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy help manage pain, strength, and function alongside veterinary medical or surgical care.
When screened and supervised, aquatic therapy is often useful because buoyancy reduces load while muscles work. Suitability depends on overall health and temperament.
No. Many dogs are managed medically and with rehab. Surgery is considered based on age, severity, lifestyle, and response to conservative care — your vet or surgeon advises.
Yes, though it is discussed less often than in dogs. Cats may show reduced jumping or grooming changes rather than an obvious limp. Veterinary assessment is still needed.
Book a rehabilitation assessment
If your pet has been diagnosed with Hip dysplasia, or you are noticing mobility changes, our team can assess and design a multimodal rehab plan.
Educational content only — not a diagnosis. For emergencies, contact your nearest veterinary hospital.
My family and I would like to thank RehabVet team for the care, dedication, and professionalism shown to our beloved Border Collie, Patches. During his rehabilitation journey, the therapists and staff were always patient, compassionate, and willing to answer our questions. It was evident that they genuinely cared about his well-being and worked hard to help him maintain the best quality of life possible.
Clean environment and knowledgeable people who loves pets. Highly recommended.
Great place for rehab and therapist
The only place that Aiko loves so wholeheartedly, greeting all staffs cheerfully the moment she enters and resting on their thighs after hydrotherapy so peacefully. The trust and demure of your dog tells it all. No bias or pre-conceived perceptions. We were surprised that the first five hydrotherapy sessions have helped to strengthen her hips and improve her level of energy. Sean is just the consummate professional!
This clinic combines effective treatment, compassionate handling, and up-to-date evidence-based rehabilitation tools. My dog has experienced very visible improvement after just a few sessions with them. Very effective. Many pet owners I spoke to at the clinic also gives it a thumbs up. They have a team of well trained and very caring professionals. I have not seen any dogs that are not comfortable with them over here. 👍🏻
We visited Rehabvet as Bruno was having some mobility issues with his hind legs. We had an excellent experience. They structured a massage / exercise / hydro schedule that worked wonders. Bruno is feeling much better now.
This is the best rehab clinic for my dog.
We've been bringing Kuma to RehabVet for physiotherapy and the experience has been outstanding. The team truly cares for every fur patient, and you can feel the warmth and dedication the moment you walk in. A special thank you to Hazel, Kuma's therapist, who is incredibly patient, attentive, and knowledgeable. She not only conducts the sessions with great care but also provides practical advice for us to continue strengthening Kuma's muscles at home and the results really show. Thank you as well to Dr. Sara, Xan, and the entire RehabVet team for the love and professionalism you show to every pet. If your furkid needs rehabilitation or physiotherapy, RehabVet is truly a place you can trust.
Had a very positive experience at the rehab vet. The entire team was professional, gentle, and reassuring throughout the session. Dr Sara was especially wonderful — knowledgeable, patient, and took the time to explain everything clearly without rushing. You can tell she genuinely cares about the animals and their recovery. The facility has also just been renovated and is very clean, modern, and calm, making it a comfortable and conducive environment for both pets and owners. Highly recommended.
We're truly grateful to Dr. Sara, the entire RehabVet team, and especially Xan, who has been exceptionally detailed and patient. The whole team has shown such genuine care throughout Milo's recovery journey. Milo was diagnosed with IVDD Grade 3 in late June 2025. Although he hasn't fully recovered yet, we've seen significant improvement over the past 3.5 months with pain relief treatments, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, acupuncture, and regular exercise sessions. We believe that slowly but surely, Milo will make a full recovery. Never give up!
Haru has been going to rehabvet since Nov 2025 to manage his mobility caused by luxating patellar and hip dysplasia. Thus far, we witnessed huge improvements thru several methods of rehabilitation such as ultrasound/laser therapy, land exercises and hydrotherapy! Aside from the treatments, what made us continue with them is the hospitality of the staff! They are always so welcoming and you could feel the warmth everytime you step into the clinic! Also, they treat your furkid with love and respect. Highly recommended.
I can't recommend RehabVet highly enough! My Happy, a pomeranian with patella luxation grade 3 on her left hind leg and hip dysplasia, has made incredible progress since starting physiotherapy here. The team is so knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely caring. All the therapists were fantastic and tailored the sessions perfectly to Happy's needs. The facilities are clean and well-equipped, and my dog always seemed comfortable and even enjoyed their sessions. If your furry friend needs some extra support, look no further than RehabVet!
We've been taking our dog to Rehab Vet Singapore for about 6–7 years, mainly for EMF therapy, water treadmill sessions, and joint and muscle supplements. After her hip surgery, she needed a comprehensive recovery plan, and the team here has provided just that and more. Their treatments have helped her regain strength and mobility, and the long-term maintenance has been invaluable in keeping her active and comfortable. The staff is knowledgeable, caring, and always focused on her needs. We truly appreciate the dedication they've shown over the years – highly recommend!
Went to RehabVet for a second opinion on a serious limp my husky had developed. They were exceptionally knowledgeable, gave practical advice and were very generous with their time. We moved forward with treatment and the non invasive options they gave have made him much more comfortable and the future is promising. From the first time I reached out via whatsapp they gave clear helpful advice, follow up on treatment, pictures, liaised with pet transportation and more. A really amazing full service experience. Thank you very much.
As a fur mummy, finding people who genuinely care for and love our babies is so important. I've found exactly that here, especially with Judette, Xan, Noelle, and Joyce. My babies, Barley (17yo cat) and Lexi (9yo dog), come in for pain management and rehab sessions, and I'm always completely comfortable with how they're treated. The team is incredibly patient, gentle, and kind, and it shows in the way they handle my pets. So grateful to have found a rehab centre I truly trust. Highly recommended.
My Shih Tzu, August, has osteoarthritis and he was unable to walk. We took him to RehabVet Clinic after reading good reviews about it on Google. Since November 2023, he has been having therapy here and has shown improvement in his mobility under the tender loving care from Dr Sara Lam and the staff members, with special mention and appreciation to Angeline, Joyce, Hui Tze and Shaun. My Puppy King will continue his treatment here as we have trust in this lovely team. Thank you!
Bubble has been with Rehab Vet for years as he grows older and manages his luxating patella. I am truly grateful to Doc Sara, Xan, Sean, Joyce, and the entire rehab team for always taking such wonderful care of Bubble and watching over him during every session. Bubble came from a condition whereby he couldn't even walk, he was paralysed. But really thankful to rehab vet that made the impossible, became possible. Thank you Doc Sara & all Rehab Team
Great team! Brought my dog Bunny in for a consultation because her luxating patella was getting worse. Bunny is an anxious dog so I expected her to be a handful during the consult but she was very calm in the therapists' presence! Shout out to Xan and Noelle for helping her feel at ease in a foreign place. I love the clinic's interior as well, the warm lights and pastel colours are very welcoming for both me and Bunny :)
Rehabvet was recommended to us by our vet because our dog dislocated her hip when she was a puppy. We've been going to Rehabvet for several years now and their standard of care has been consistently high throughout. Special shoutout to Sean for always trying his best to make her visits as comfortable as possible 👍 (She gets easily anxious)!!
Having been to several vets and rehabs with my senior Shih Tzu, my experience at RehabVet has been the best. My only regret was not bringing him here sooner when his issues first came up! My very anxious 15 year old kiddo was diagnosed with IVDD and is unable to move all his limbs voluntarily at all times. After the initial testing and diagnosis by Dr. Sara, he has had a few trips to the Hyperbaric O2 Therapy, Laser Therapy, and Electrical Stimulation with massages. Now, I can tell that he is in less pain and is also more comfortable and less anxious. I would highly recommend RehabVet to anyone thinking about it!
I can't thank Xan and his team at RehabVet enough for the incredible care they've given my dog. After a sudden incident where my dog started dragging both hind legs, the vet diagnosed him with IVDD stage 2. I decided to try physio at RehabVet, and it was the best decision I could have made. Within just 2-3 sessions, my dog's hind legs showed significant improvement—they were no longer wobbly. Now, after 7-8 sessions, he's regained his mobility and is even jumping around at home again. Xan's patience and dedication made all the difference. I highly recommend RehabVet to anyone in need of compassionate, effective care for their pet.
Always a pleasant experience here at RehabVet- clean area, calm ambience and super patient therapists. Staff are very willing to share tips on home care massages and explain in detail how our pups muscles work, gait observation and strength training for them!
Sean is an incredibly caring and skilled rehab therapist. He's gentle, patient, and truly treats every dog like his own. We saw clear improvement in our dog's mobility, and sessions are always handled with professionalism and compassion. Highly recommend!
Have a wonderful experience with the team at Rehab Vet. The staff are warm, friendly, and always patient in answering our enquiries. Their care and professionalism make every visit reassuring.
My senior dog has been with rehabvet since Sept 2025 after her leg surgery. We're happy to see improvement! Everyone is helpful and friendly here. Thanks rehabvet team!
Newly renovated place, more conducive for therapy sessions. Therapists are experienced in handling older dogs. Have been sending my 18 year old dog for therapy for more than a year.
The therapists are patient and helped improved my dog's arthritis condition. They taught us how to massage his joints and told us to use heat therapy.
My dog has been coming to rehabs for hips dysplasia at a young age of 2 years old & now is 10 years old & condition did not detoriate - glad we started early.
Mochi enjoys his physio sessions with Rehabvet. His LP grade reduced from 3 to 2 with regular weekly sessions. The therapists are friendly and always make sure the sessions intensity are suitable for him.
We've sent both our dogs to RehabVet for some years now. Thanks to the staff for always being so welcoming and caring. Butter loves his swim here.
