Dog Acupuncture in Singapore
Your pet is in pain — and you've tried everything.
Veterinary acupuncture is that treatment. It’s proven, drug-free, and used by rehabilitation clinics worldwide to manage pain and restore mobility — often when conventional treatments alone fall short.
What Is Veterinary Acupuncture?
Veterinary acupuncture is a therapeutic technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) that involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific anatomical points on the body. These acupoints correspond to areas rich in nerve endings, blood vessels, and immune cells.
When stimulated, acupuncture triggers a cascade of physiological responses: the release of beta-endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers), increased blood circulation to damaged tissue, reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and modulation of the autonomic nervous system.
At RehabVet, we offer four types of veterinary acupuncture: Dry Needle Acupuncture (the foundation of every plan), Electroacupuncture (for neurological conditions and severe pain), Aquapuncture (B12 injection at acupoints), and Moxibustion (heat therapy for senior pets).
Triggers endorphin release — your pet's own natural painkillers. Reduces reliance on NSAIDs and opioids.
Increases blood flow to damaged tissue, promoting faster recovery from surgery, injury, and chronic conditions.
Modulates the immune response, decreasing inflammatory markers that contribute to pain and joint damage.
Relaxes muscle spasms, reduces nerve compression, and restores range of motion — especially in senior dogs.
Traditional acupuncture using fine, sterile needles inserted at specific acupoints. The foundation of every treatment plan.
Mild electrical stimulation applied through acupuncture needles for deeper, more sustained effect. Particularly effective for neurological conditions and severe pain.
Injection of small amounts of vitamin B12 or saline at acupoints for prolonged stimulation. Useful for patients who won't tolerate needles for the full session duration.
Application of heat from burning dried mugwort near acupoints. Used in TCVM to warm cold-deficient conditions, particularly beneficial for senior pets in air-conditioned environments.
How an Acupuncture Session Works at RehabVet
Your pet is assessed by our veterinary team using both Western diagnostics and TCVM evaluation. We review medical history, current medications, pain points, gait, range of motion, and tongue/pulse diagnosis (a TCVM technique). This takes 30–45 minutes for new patients.
Based on the assessment, we create a personalised treatment plan. This outlines which acupoints to target, whether electroacupuncture or moxibustion would benefit your pet, how many sessions to expect, and which additional modalities (laser, hydro, physio) to combine.
Fine, sterile, single-use needles are gently inserted at the prescribed acupoints. Most dogs barely notice — the needles are thinner than a strand of hair. Your pet is allowed to rest in a comfortable position throughout.
Needles remain in place for 15–30 minutes while your pet relaxes. Many dogs fall asleep. If electroacupuncture is used, gentle electrical stimulation is applied — most pets tolerate this extremely well.
After needle removal, we assess your pet's immediate response and update the treatment plan. We provide at-home care instructions and schedule the next session. Progress is documented at every visit.
Conditions We Treat With Acupuncture
Osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease, chronic musculoskeletal pain — acupuncture reduces inflammation and triggers endorphin release for natural, drug-free pain management.
One of the most common conditions we treat. Acupuncture reduces spinal inflammation, manages pain, and promotes nerve regeneration — often combined with laser therapy and physiotherapy.
Acupuncture relieves the chronic pain and muscle tension associated with dysplasia, improving mobility and quality of life without relying solely on long-term medication.
Cruciate ligament repair, spinal surgery, fracture fixation — acupuncture accelerates healing, manages post-operative pain, and reduces swelling after surgical procedures.
vVestibular disease, degenerative myelopathy, facial nerve paralysis — acupuncture stimulates nerve function and supports neurological recovery.
Ageing dogs benefit enormously from regular acupuncture. It helps manage the aches of old age, supports cognitive function, improves appetite, and enhances overall quality of life.
Acupuncture has a calming effect on the nervous system. It can help dogs with anxiety, storm phobia, and stress-related behaviours by regulating neurotransmitter balance.
TCVM acupuncture supports organ function in dogs with chronic kidney disease, liver issues, or gastrointestinal problems — helping manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
Acupuncture vs Other Pain Management Options
| Factor | Acupuncture | NSAIDs / Medication | Surgery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side effects | Minimal to none | GI upset, liver/kidney strain | Anaesthesia risk, long recovery |
| Invasiveness | Non-invasive | Oral / injectable | Highly invasive |
| Long-term use | Safe indefinitely | Risk increases over time | One-time (usually) |
| Addresses root cause | Yes — promotes healing | No — masks symptoms | Depends on condition |
| Cost per session | $90–$250 | $30–$80/month | $3,000–$10,000+ |
Note: Acupuncture often works best alongside other treatments, not as a replacement. At RehabVet, we create integrated plans.
Dog Acupuncture Pricing in Singapore
Acupuncture pricing at RehabVet depends on your pet’s condition and the type of treatment recommended. An initial consultation is required for new patients. Exact pricing is discussed at your first visit.
Why Choose RehabVet for Dog Acupuncture?
We are not a general practice vet that offers acupuncture on the side. Every therapist, piece of equipment, and treatment room at RehabVet exists for one purpose: rehabilitation and recovery. This focus means deeper expertise, better equipment, and more consistent outcomes than clinics where acupuncture is one of many general services.
What sets RehabVet apart is our integrative approach. Acupuncture works best as part of a comprehensive plan. We combine it with Class 4 laser therapy, underwater treadmill hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, and herbal medicine. This multimodal approach delivers better outcomes than acupuncture alone — and it's how the world's best veterinary rehabilitation centres operate.
Our team are trained in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) — not weekend-certified. Led by Dr. Sara Lam, 2025 Bright Minds Wellness Champion, our practitioners understand both the ancient art and modern science of veterinary acupuncture. This dual expertise means better diagnoses and more effective treatment.
Results speak. Our reviews come from real pet owners who've seen real improvements — dogs walking again after IVDD, senior pets with renewed energy, post-surgery patients recovering faster than expected. We don't cherry-pick testimonials; you can read every review on our Google Business Profile.
RehabVet has been featured across Singapore's major media outlets for our innovative approach to veterinary rehabilitation. This recognition reflects our standing as Singapore's leading specialist rehabilitation clinic.
How RehabVet Compares
| Feature | RehabVet | General Vet Clinics | Mobile Acupuncture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dedicated rehab facility | ✓ Purpose-built | ✗ General practice | ✗ Home visits |
| Multimodal treatment | ✓ Acu + laser + hydro + physio | Limited | Acupuncture only |
| Specialist team | ✓ Full rehab team | 1–2 trained vets | 1 vet |
| Google reviews | 195+ (4.9★) | Varies | Limited |
| Equipment | ✓ Full rehab suite | Basic | Portable only |
Meet Your Rehabilitation Team
Qualified rehabilitation specialists
What Pet Owners Say About Dog Acupuncture at RehabVet
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Acupuncture
Does acupuncture really work on dogs?
Yes — veterinary acupuncture is supported by extensive clinical research. It works by stimulating specific points on the body to release endorphins (natural painkillers), improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and modulate the nervous system. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) recognises acupuncture as a valid complementary therapy. About 80% of animals respond positively to treatment, and at RehabVet, our 195+ 5-star Google reviews reflect real, measurable outcomes.
How long does it take for acupuncture to work on my dog?
Some dogs show improvement after the very first session — often appearing more relaxed, mobile, or energetic within 24–48 hours. However, most conditions require 3–4 sessions before a significant response is seen. Chronic conditions like osteoarthritis or IVDD may need 6–10 sessions for sustained improvement. Our team tracks progress at every visit and adjusts the treatment plan accordingly.
What are the side effects of acupuncture for dogs?
Veterinary acupuncture is extremely safe. The most common side effects are mild and temporary: slight soreness at needle insertion points, drowsiness or extra sleepiness for 12–24 hours after treatment, and occasionally a brief worsening of symptoms before improvement (known as a ‘healing crisis’). Serious side effects are exceptionally rare when performed by trained veterinary acupuncturists using sterile, single-use needles — as we do at RehabVet.
How often should my dog have acupuncture?
A typical initial treatment plan involves 1–2 sessions per week for the first 3–4 weeks. As your dog improves, sessions are tapered to fortnightly, then monthly maintenance. Each session lasts 20–30 minutes. We create a personalised schedule at your first consultation.
How much does dog acupuncture cost in Singapore?
At RehabVet, acupuncture sessions range from $90 to $250 per session depending on the complexity and whether it’s combined with other modalities (e.g., electroacupuncture, laser therapy). An initial consultation to assess your pet and create a treatment plan is required for new patients.
Is acupuncture safe for puppies and senior dogs?
Acupuncture is safe for dogs of all ages, from puppies (typically 6 months and older) to senior dogs. Senior dogs are among the most common patients — acupuncture is especially effective for age-related conditions like arthritis, muscle wasting, and cognitive decline.
Can acupuncture help my dog with IVDD (slipped disc)?
Absolutely. IVDD is one of the most common conditions we treat with acupuncture at RehabVet. Acupuncture helps manage pain, reduce inflammation around the spinal cord, and stimulate nerve regeneration. We typically combine it with laser therapy and physiotherapy for IVDD cases.
Does my dog need a referral for acupuncture at RehabVet?
No referral is needed. You can book directly through our online booking system or WhatsApp us at 8798 7554. At your first visit, our team will conduct a full assessment and create a tailored treatment plan.
Will my dog be scared of the needles?
Most dogs tolerate acupuncture surprisingly well. The needles used are extremely fine — much thinner than injection needles — and insertion is virtually painless. Many dogs relax so deeply during sessions that they fall asleep.
Can acupuncture be combined with other treatments?
Yes — acupuncture complements virtually all other treatments. It can be safely combined with Western medications, post-surgical rehabilitation, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and laser therapy. Many pet owners find that acupuncture allows them to reduce their dog’s medication dosage over time.
What conditions can veterinary acupuncture treat?
Veterinary acupuncture is effective for: chronic pain and osteoarthritis, IVDD and spinal conditions, hip and elbow dysplasia, cruciate ligament injuries, post-surgical recovery, neurological conditions, anxiety and behavioural issues, kidney disease, gastrointestinal problems, and general wellness for senior pets.
How is veterinary acupuncture different from human acupuncture?
The principles are the same — stimulating specific points to promote natural healing — but veterinary acupuncture requires specialised training in animal anatomy, physiology, and behaviour. At RehabVet, our practitioners are trained in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) and understand the unique acupoint maps for dogs and cats.