
Dr. Sara Lam
Lead Veterinarian
BVSc (Sydney), CCRT, CVA
Veterinary oversight for every rehabilitation plan — ensuring safe, clinically appropriate care for your pet.

Also known as veterinary rehabilitation, pet physical therapy, or animal physiotherapy
Animal rehabilitation is the use of evidence-based physical therapies to restore movement, reduce pain, and improve function in dogs, cats, and other companion animals. It is the veterinary equivalent of human physical therapy and physiotherapy — applying the same scientific principles, adapted for four-legged patients.
At RehabVet, animal rehabilitation encompasses a comprehensive range of modalities: hydrotherapy (underwater treadmill), physiotherapy (manual therapy and therapeutic exercises), acupuncture, Class 4 laser therapy, electrotherapy (TENS & NMES), therapeutic ultrasound, shockwave therapy, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Unlike human medicine, where rehabilitation after surgery or injury is standard practice, veterinary rehabilitation is still a relatively young field in Singapore. RehabVet was established as Singapore’s first dedicated animal rehabilitation clinic — and remains the most comprehensive facility of its kind, with purpose-built equipment, qualified rehabilitation therapists, and full veterinary oversight for every session.
The effectiveness of veterinary rehabilitation is well-supported by clinical research. Studies published in the Veterinary Surgery journal and the Journal of Small Animal Practice demonstrate that pets receiving structured rehabilitation programmes after orthopaedic surgery recover faster, develop better muscle mass, achieve greater joint range of motion, and return to normal activity sooner compared to rest alone.
A comprehensive toolkit — not just one treatment
Effective animal rehabilitation requires a multimodal approach. At RehabVet, we combine multiple evidence-based therapies into a personalised programme tailored to your pet’s condition.

Hydrotherapy
Underwater treadmill and warm water therapy for low-impact exercise, muscle building, and pain-free movement. Ideal for post-surgical recovery, arthritis, and weight management.

Physiotherapy
Manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, balance training, and gait retraining. Builds strength, restores range of motion, and retrains movement patterns after injury or surgery.

Acupuncture & TCVM
Veterinary acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) for pain management, inflammation reduction, and support of natural healing processes.

Class 4 Laser Therapy
Deep tissue photobiomodulation using Class 4 therapeutic laser. Stimulates cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and provides analgesia at the tissue level. Non-invasive and painless — most pets relax during treatment. Effective for acute injuries, chronic pain, and wound healing.

Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES)
Electrical currents stimulate muscle contractions in weakened or atrophied muscles. NMES is essential for neurological patients who cannot voluntarily activate muscles, and for maintaining muscle mass in post-surgical patients during restricted activity periods.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
HBOT delivers 100% oxygen at increased atmospheric pressure, accelerating wound healing, reducing inflammation, and supporting recovery from neurological conditions.
Additional modalities available: therapeutic ultrasound, shockwave therapy (ESWT), TCVM Tui-Na, thermotherapy & cryotherapy, and proprioception exercises.
Singapore’s most comprehensive veterinary rehabilitation facility
Singapore's first dedicated rehabilitation clinic
RehabVet was established as Singapore's first full-service veterinary rehabilitation centre. Every therapist, piece of equipment, and treatment room is purpose-built for rehabilitation — we are not a general practice clinic that offers rehab on the side.
Multimodal treatment — not just one therapy
We combine hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, acupuncture, laser therapy, electrotherapy, and hyperbaric oxygen into comprehensive programmes. Research consistently shows that multimodal rehabilitation delivers superior outcomes compared to any single modality alone.
Full veterinary oversight every session
All rehabilitation sessions are designed and supervised by our veterinary team, led by Dr. Sara Lam BVSc. Our therapists hold internationally recognised rehabilitation qualifications and work under direct veterinary oversight.
Objective progress tracking
We measure muscle circumference, joint range of motion, gait quality, and functional mobility at regular reassessments. You see your pet's improvement in concrete numbers — not just "they seem better."
Dogs and cats — not just dogs
We have extensive experience treating feline patients. Our therapists adapt techniques for cats' unique physiology and temperament — because cats deserve expert rehabilitation too.
One-on-one dedicated sessions
Every pet receives individual attention for their entire session. No group classes, no distractions — just focused, expert care tailored to your pet's specific needs and goals.
Evidence-based outcomes for surgery recovery, chronic pain, arthritis, and neurological conditions

1. Faster recovery after surgery
Veterinary research consistently shows that structured post-operative rehabilitation can reduce recovery times by 30–50%. Dogs undergoing rehabilitation after cruciate ligament repair return to full weight-bearing significantly earlier than without.
2. Effective pain management without medication
Rehabilitation provides natural, drug-free pain relief through acupuncture, therapeutic laser, TENS, and manual therapy — reducing dependence on pain medications and their long-term side effects.
3. Improved mobility and joint function
Through targeted stretching, strengthening exercises, and hydrotherapy, rehabilitation restores joint range of motion and builds supporting muscle mass — especially important for osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, and IVDD.
4. Weight management through guided exercise
Our programmes incorporate controlled exercise regimens — including underwater treadmill sessions — that help overweight pets shed excess kilograms safely, reducing stress on joints and improving cardiovascular health.
5. Enhanced neurological recovery
Pets recovering from spinal injuries, strokes, or neurological conditions benefit from targeted neuromuscular rehabilitation. Exercises retrain proprioception and stimulate nerve pathways to restore function.
6. Improved quality of life for senior pets
Regular rehabilitation sessions help maintain mobility, preserve independence, and manage chronic pain — allowing senior dogs and cats to remain active and comfortable in their golden years.
7. Emotional and behavioural benefits
Pets in chronic pain often become withdrawn, anxious, or irritable. By effectively managing pain and restoring mobility, rehabilitation frequently leads to noticeable improvements in mood, energy levels, and overall behaviour.
8. Prevention of compensatory injuries
When an animal favours one limb, the opposite limb and spine bear extra load — leading to secondary injuries over time. Rehabilitation addresses the original condition while correcting compensatory movement patterns.
9. Measurable, trackable progress
Every rehabilitation programme includes regular reassessments — muscle circumference measurements, gait analysis, joint range of motion testing, and functional mobility scoring — so you can see improvement in verifiable terms.
10. Potential to avoid or delay surgery
In some cases, structured rehabilitation can successfully manage conditions conservatively — including mild cruciate ligament injuries, early-stage arthritis, and certain soft tissue injuries — potentially avoiding or delaying surgery.
From post-surgical recovery to age-related mobility decline — our rehabilitation programmes address the full spectrum of musculoskeletal, neurological, and chronic conditions in dogs and cats.

Post-surgical recovery
Pets recovering from orthopaedic surgery (TPLO, TTA, fracture repair, FHO) or spinal surgery benefit from early, structured rehabilitation. We begin gentle treatment within days of surgery and progress systematically as healing allows — reducing recovery time by 30–50% compared to rest alone.

Osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease
Arthritis is the single most common reason pets are referred for rehabilitation. Our multimodal approach — combining hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, laser therapy, and acupuncture — reduces pain, builds protective muscle mass, and slows disease progression.

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
IVDD patients — particularly Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, Corgis, and Shih Tzus — often present with hind limb weakness, ataxia, or paralysis. Our rehabilitation programmes combine neuromuscular re-education, hydrotherapy, laser therapy, and proprioceptive exercises to promote nerve recovery.

Hip and elbow dysplasia
Dysplastic joints cause lifelong pain and progressive degeneration. Rehabilitation strengthens the muscles surrounding affected joints, improves stability, and reduces pain — often delaying or avoiding surgical intervention.

Neurological conditions
Degenerative myelopathy, fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE), vestibular disease, and other neurological conditions respond well to targeted rehabilitation. Balance exercises, assisted standing, hydrotherapy, and controlled movement help retrain neural pathways and maximise remaining function.

Cruciate ligament injuries
Both pre-surgical "prehabilitation" and post-surgical rehabilitation are critical for cruciate cases. Pre-surgical physical therapy builds muscle mass and maintains fitness before surgery. Post-surgical therapy restores range of motion, rebuilds quadriceps and hamstring strength, and retrains normal weight-bearing gait patterns.

Obesity and weight management
Overweight pets face significantly higher risks of joint disease, diabetes, and reduced life expectancy. Our underwater treadmill provides high-calorie-burn, low-impact exercise — safe even for pets who cannot tolerate conventional exercise due to pain or mobility limitations.

Geriatric mobility decline
Older dogs and cats naturally lose muscle mass, joint flexibility, and balance. Regular rehabilitation sessions maintain mobility, prevent falls, manage age-related pain, and preserve quality of life — helping senior pets stay active and independent.
A structured, 5-step process from assessment to recovery
1. Rehabilitation consultation
Your pet's first visit includes a comprehensive assessment: medical history review, gait and posture observation, joint range of motion and muscle circumference measurements, pain assessment, and functional mobility testing. We review any imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT) and surgical reports.
Personalised treatment plan
Based on the assessment, our veterinary team designs a tailored rehabilitation programme with specific goals, selected modalities, recommended frequency, and expected timelines. We discuss everything with you — including costs — before beginning treatment.
Active rehabilitation (30–60 min sessions)
Each session combines multiple modalities selected for your pet: manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, hydrotherapy, laser therapy, acupuncture, or electrotherapy. Our therapists adjust the programme in real time based on your pet's response.
Regular reassessment
Progress is measured objectively at regular intervals — muscle circumference, joint angles, gait scores, and functional mobility. We adjust the programme based on data, not guesswork. You receive clear updates on your pet's progress at every reassessment.
Home exercise programme
Between clinic sessions, we provide specific exercises for you to practise at home. These are carefully demonstrated and selected to complement your pet's in-clinic treatment — significantly improving outcomes by providing daily therapeutic activity.
First time at an animal rehabilitation clinic? Here’s what happens
Before the session
Bring your pet's medical history, any imaging reports (X-rays, MRI, CT), surgical reports, and a list of current medications. If your pet has had recent surgery, bring the surgical discharge notes.
During the session (60–90 minutes for first visit)
Your first visit is longer because it includes a full assessment. Our veterinary team will observe your pet's gait and posture, perform a physical examination, measure joint range of motion and muscle mass, and discuss your goals. Treatment begins at this first visit if appropriate. You are welcome to stay, observe, and ask questions throughout.
After the session
Some pets are tired after their first sessions — this is normal and indicates the muscles have been working. Your therapist will explain the recommended treatment plan, frequency, and expected timeline. Home exercises will be demonstrated for you to practise between visits. Most pets show visible improvement within 3–4 sessions.
Ready to take the next step?
Our rehabilitation team will assess your pet and build a personalised care plan.
Transparent pricing — no hidden fees
Rehabilitation pricing at RehabVet depends on the modalities required and your pet’s treatment plan. All costs are discussed transparently at your initial consultation.
Rehabilitation consultation + first session
$150 – $200
Follow-up rehabilitation sessions
$100 – $160
Hydrotherapy (underwater treadmill) sessions
$100 – $140
Many pet insurance policies in Singapore now cover rehabilitation therapies. We recommend checking with your insurer before your first appointment. We provide itemised invoices for insurance claims.
Pricing varies based on session duration and additional modalities (laser therapy, shockwave, acupuncture, HBOT). Your veterinary team will discuss all costs before beginning treatment.
Prefer to chat on WhatsApp?
Message us for a personalised quote — we’re happy to help.
Qualified rehabilitation specialists — dedicated to getting your pet moving again. Led by Dr. Sara Lam BVSc.

Lead Veterinarian
BVSc (Sydney), CCRT, CVA
Veterinary oversight for every rehabilitation plan — ensuring safe, clinically appropriate care for your pet.

Senior Therapist

Therapist

Hydrotherapist

Hydrotherapist

Client Relations, Marketing & Business Development Manager
Everything pet owners ask before their first rehabilitation session
Animal rehabilitation (also called veterinary rehabilitation or pet physical therapy) is the use of evidence-based physical therapies to restore movement, reduce pain, and improve function in animals. It encompasses multiple modalities — hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, acupuncture, laser therapy, electrotherapy, and more — combined into a structured treatment programme tailored to each patient. At RehabVet, every programme is designed and supervised by our veterinary team.
At RehabVet, initial rehabilitation consultations are –, which includes a comprehensive assessment and your first treatment session. Follow-up sessions range from – depending on the modalities used. Package rates are available for ongoing treatment plans. Many pet insurance policies in Singapore now cover rehabilitation.
Each session begins with an assessment of your pet’s current condition — gait, posture, pain levels, and progress since the last visit. Treatment then combines multiple modalities: manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, hydrotherapy, laser, electrotherapy, or acupuncture. Sessions typically last 30–60 minutes, adjusted in real time based on your pet’s response.
Frequency depends on your pet’s condition and treatment phase. For post-surgical rehabilitation, we typically recommend 2–3 sessions per week initially, reducing to once weekly as recovery progresses. Chronic conditions like arthritis often benefit from 1–2 sessions per week, transitioning to weekly or fortnightly maintenance.
Physiotherapy is one component of rehabilitation. Veterinary rehabilitation is the broader umbrella term encompassing all physical therapies — including physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, acupuncture, laser therapy, electrotherapy, shockwave therapy, and more. At RehabVet, most patients receive a multimodal programme combining several modalities for optimal results.
Rehabilitation is one of the most beneficial interventions for senior pets. Older dogs and cats commonly suffer from muscle loss, arthritis, reduced balance, and declining mobility. Our programmes are adapted to each senior pet’s abilities and tolerance — gentle, progressive, and always respectful of their limitations.
This depends on the surgery type and your surgeon’s recommendations. Gentle manual therapy and passive range-of-motion exercises can often begin within 3–7 days post-surgery. We always coordinate with your primary vet or surgeon to ensure timing is appropriate and safe.
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.