Your dog takes a while to get up in the morning. Stairs have become a negotiation. The walks that used to be the highlight of their day are shorter, slower, and end early. Your vet has confirmed arthritis and prescribed pain relief — and it helps — but you can see there is more going on than medication alone can fix.
That is the gap veterinary rehabilitation fills. At RehabVet — Singapore's first dedicated veterinary rehabilitation clinic — arthritis is one of the most common reasons dogs are referred to us. We assess which joints are affected and how much function has been lost, then treat the pain and the muscle weakness and movement compensations that come with it. No referral is required to book an assessment.
Is your cat the stiff one? Cats mask joint pain differently — reduced jumping and grooming changes often come before any limp. See osteoarthritis in cats or our cat rehabilitation service.
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: degenerative joint disease (DJD); canine osteoarthritis (OA); arthritis in dogs.
Osteoarthritis (OA), also called degenerative joint disease, is the progressive deterioration of articular cartilage with secondary changes in bone, synovium, and periarticular soft tissues. As cartilage thins, joint surfaces load unevenly, inflammation rises, and pain behaviours appear — often long before owners realise the pet is sore.
OA can affect hips, elbows, stifles (knees), shoulders, carpi, tarsi, and the spine. It is frequently secondary to developmental joint disease (for example hip or elbow dysplasia), cruciate ligament injury, osteochondrosis, or prior trauma, and it becomes more common with age. Large and giant breeds are predisposed, but small dogs develop OA too — especially after jumps, falls, or conformational stress.
There is no cure that restores original cartilage. The clinical goal is lifelong multimodal management: control pain, maintain muscle, preserve range of motion, keep body weight in a healthy range, and adapt the home and exercise plan so the dog stays as comfortable and functional as possible.
Signs vary by severity and by whether your pet is a dog or cat. Owners of dogs often notice:
A rehabilitation veterinarian assesses gait, joint range, muscle mass, pain behaviours, and functional tasks (sit-to-stand, stairs, getting into cars). Findings guide an individualised multimodal plan coordinated with your primary vet’s medical care.
Land-based physiotherapy and controlled therapeutic exercise aim to improve joint nutrition through motion, rebuild supporting muscle, and retrain efficient movement patterns without flare-ups.
Hydrotherapy (when appropriate) allows strengthening with reduced weight-bearing. Manual therapy, acupuncture, and other modalities may be layered to address pain and stiffness. Home exercise programmes and environmental modifications extend progress between clinic 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.
Arthritis management here goes beyond a prescription. A typical plan layers pain-relieving modalities with progressive strengthening, because muscle is what supports and protects an arthritic joint. Sessions are one-to-one and vet-supervised.
Assessment and joint mapping
A rehabilitation veterinarian examines gait, posture, joint range of motion, muscle mass and pain behaviours, and reviews any X-rays or referral notes you bring. Stance analysis helps quantify how weight is being redistributed away from sore joints. You leave the first visit knowing which joints are driving the problem.
Comfort first
Before asking an arthritic dog to work, we reduce pain — typically Class 4 therapeutic laser, manual therapy, and acupuncture where appropriate. Getting comfort under control is what makes the strengthening phase possible.
Progressive strengthening
Land-based therapeutic exercise and, for suitable dogs, hydrotherapy in warm water where buoyancy reduces joint load. The aim is to rebuild the muscle that has been lost to disuse without triggering a flare.
Long-term management and home plan
Arthritis is lifelong, so the plan has to be sustainable. We reassess at intervals, adjust frequency as your dog improves, advise on body condition and home changes (traction, ramps, paced walks), and coordinate with your primary vet on medication.
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.
The earliest signs are usually behavioural rather than an obvious limp: slower to rise after rest, hesitating at stairs or the car, shorter walks, less play, licking at a joint, or irritability when touched near the hips or elbows. Dogs rarely cry out. Arthritis is diagnosed by a veterinarian on examination, usually supported by radiographs — a rehabilitation assessment then establishes how much strength and function has been affected.
Plans are multimodal and chosen from examination findings, not sold as a fixed package. Commonly used: Class 4 therapeutic laser, manual therapy, controlled therapeutic exercise, hydrotherapy or the underwater treadmill for suitable dogs, acupuncture and TCVM, and electrotherapy. Weight management is part of the plan where body condition is adding joint load. We coordinate with your primary vet on medication.
Age alone is not a barrier — senior dogs make up a large share of our arthritis caseload. What matters is a screening assessment for concurrent cardiac, respiratory, kidney or neurological problems so the programme is dosed safely. Sessions for older dogs are gentler, shorter, and paced to tolerance.
No. You can book a rehabilitation assessment directly. Bring any imaging reports, surgical notes and a current medication list if you have them, and we will keep your primary vet informed so medical and rehabilitation care stay aligned.
“Arthritis” means joint inflammation. Osteoarthritis is the most common chronic form in dogs — cartilage degeneration with secondary inflammation and bony change. Other types (for example immune-mediated polyarthritis) behave differently and need different medical work-ups.
Rehab cannot regenerate lost cartilage or erase radiographic OA. It can meaningfully improve comfort, strength, and function, slow secondary decline from disuse, and help many dogs stay active for longer when combined with weight control and veterinary pain management.
OA is a lifelong condition. Many dogs benefit from an intensive phase followed by maintenance sessions and a home programme. Frequency depends on severity, flare pattern, and how well the home plan is followed.
When screened and supervised, aquatic therapy is often useful because buoyancy reduces joint load while allowing muscle work. Not every dog is a candidate (skin disease, uncontrolled cardiac/respiratory disease, extreme fear of water, and some neurological statuses may preclude it). Assessment decides suitability.
Book a rehabilitation assessment
If your pet has been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, 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.
