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Canine Hydrotherapy · Serangoon Road, Singapore

Hydrotherapy for Dogs

Warm-water rehabilitation on a purpose-built underwater treadmill — and supervised fitness swimming — at RehabVet, Singapore’s first dedicated veterinary rehab clinic on Serangoon Road.
Excellent
Based on 230 reviews
What It Is

Water that takes the load off sore joints

Canine hydrotherapy — sometimes called dog water therapy or aquatic rehabilitation — uses buoyancy, resistance, and warmth so dogs can move with less joint stress than on land, while still building strength and retraining gait.
  • Buoyancy

    Water supports body weight so dogs can walk or swim with less load on painful or healing joints. Depth is adjusted to the session goal.

  • Resistance

    Moving through water works muscles harder than the same motion in air — useful for rebuilding strength after injury or surgery.

  • Warmth

    Warm water helps muscles relax and joints feel freer before and during guided exercise — especially helpful for arthritic and senior dogs.

Who It’s For

Dogs who need movement without the land impact

Hydrotherapy is commonly part of rehabilitation plans for orthopaedic recovery, chronic joint disease, neurological weakness, and senior mobility — always after a clinical assessment.
  • Post-surgical recovery

    TPLO, cruciate repair, fracture fixation, FHO, and spinal surgery — once the wound is closed and your vet clears aquatic work.

  • Osteoarthritis & joint disease

    Low-impact exercise that maintains muscle around stiff, painful joints without pounding on land.

  • Hip & elbow dysplasia

    Supported walking and swimming to build supporting muscle while reducing load on dysplastic joints.

  • IVDD & neurological weakness

    Guided, supported movement for dogs rebuilding coordination and hind-limb strength.

  • Weight management

    Fitness swimming and treadmill work for dogs who need calorie-burning exercise that is kinder on overloaded joints.

  • Senior mobility & conditioning

    Ongoing maintenance sessions to keep older dogs moving comfortably between land-based rehab visits.

How It Works Here

Three aquatic pathways in one clinic

In the RehabVet clinic app, aquatic visits are booked as Hydrotherapy, UWTM (underwater treadmill), or Fitness Swim — each with its own session length and package structure.

Hydrotherapy (within rehab)

60 min · weight-tiered Rehab packages

Often delivered inside a 60-minute Rehabilitation session alongside land therapies such as manual work, pain relief, or Tui-na. Rehab packages are the most common way owners book ongoing hydro-inclusive care.

Underwater treadmill (UWTM)

45 min · UWTM 5- and 10-session packages

A dedicated 45-minute treadmill pathway with adjustable water depth and belt speed for controlled, weight-bearing gait work — ideal when precise walking patterns matter more than free swimming.

Fitness Swim

45 min · Fitness Swim singles & packages

Supervised swimming in our saltwater pool for conditioning and cardiovascular work when non-weight-bearing exercise is the better fit.

A typical session flow

  1. Step 1

    Assessment

    We review history, gait, and goals, then decide whether treadmill, swim, or a multimodal rehab session is appropriate.

  2. Step 2

    Gentle introduction

    Dogs meet the water at their own pace — dry belt first when needed, then shallow fill, then working depth.

  3. Step 3

    Guided session

    A therapist controls depth, speed, and duration in real time and stays with your dog throughout.

  4. Step 4

    Dry-down & notes

    Aquatic packages include showering and drying time within the booked duration. Session notes feed the next visit.

UWTM vs Pool

Underwater treadmill vs fitness swim

Not all hydrotherapy is the same. Walking in an underwater treadmill and swimming in a pool produce different movement patterns — we choose based on your dog’s condition, not a one-size-fits-all pool session.
FeatureUnderwater treadmillFitness swim (pool)
Movement patternControlled walking / gait retraining on a beltNon-weight-bearing swimming / paddling
Weight-bearingAdjustable via water depthMinimal to none while swimming
Therapist controlDepth, belt speed, and duration set in real timeSupervision and swim structure; less gait precision
Best suited forPost-surgical gait work, arthritis, IVDD, neurological rehabFitness, conditioning, buoyancy-dominant exercise
Nervous non-swimmersOften easier — chamber fills gradually while standingCan feel more intimidating for water-anxious dogs
Many medical rehab cases favour the underwater treadmill because it practises normal walking patterns. Fitness Swim suits dogs who need buoyancy-dominant exercise or general conditioning. Your therapist recommends the pathway after assessment.
Benefits

What owners come for

We describe benefits in clinic-accurate language — no invented success rates. Your therapist sets goals after assessing your dog.
  • Move earlier, with less joint load

    Buoyancy lets many dogs practise walking patterns before full land exercise is comfortable or safe.

  • Rebuild muscle with controlled effort

    Water resistance strengthens without the impact of pavement or stairs.

  • Support chronic pain management

    Warm water and guided movement are a core part of many arthritis and dysplasia plans at RehabVet.

  • Fit into a multimodal plan

    Hydrotherapy often sits alongside laser, manual therapy, acupuncture, or land exercises in the same care pathway.

  • Clear package options

    Singles and 5- or 10-session packages are priced by weight tier in the clinic catalogue — your team will quote the right pathway after assessment.

What To Expect

Before, during, and after a session

First visit? Here’s the practical flow most owners ask about — from what to bring to how tired your dog may feel afterwards.
  1. 01

    Before you arrive

    Bring recent medical history and imaging if you have them. Avoid a large meal within about two hours of the session. Tell us about open wounds, skin issues, diarrhoea, or recent illness before you come — we may reschedule aquatic work for safety.

  2. 02

    During the session

    Dedicated UWTM and Fitness Swim visits are booked as 45 minutes; hydrotherapy inside a Rehabilitation visit is typically 60 minutes (including land work when planned). First sessions often emphasise calm acclimatisation more than hard exercise — that is intentional.

  3. 03

    Aftercare at home

    Your dog is showered and dried before leaving. Mild tiredness after early sessions is common. Offer fresh water, keep the first evening calm, and follow any home-exercise notes your therapist gives. Contact us if you notice unusual lameness, distress, or skin irritation.

Pricing

Transparent, weight-tiered pathways

Hydrotherapy pricing at RehabVet depends on whether your dog is on a multimodal Rehab plan, a dedicated UWTM package, or Fitness Swim — and on weight tier. Exact quotes are confirmed at assessment.
  • Rehab singles (may include hydrotherapy): from $310 / $350 by weight tier
  • UWTM packages: 5-session from $649.50; 10-session from $1,299 (<15 kg tiers)
  • Fitness Swim: singles from $130; 5-session packages from $499.50 (<15 kg)
Figures reflect our clinic catalogue as of mid-2026 and may change. Heavier tiers and peak consultation fees differ. See the FAQ below for the fuller breakdown, or WhatsApp us for a personalised quote.
Safety

When hydrotherapy may not be appropriate

Every dog is screened before aquatic work. Hydrotherapy is powerful — and not the right tool for every medical situation.
  • Open, draining, or infected wounds; surgical incisions before appropriate healing
  • Uncontrolled infectious disease, or certain active skin conditions
  • Severe uncontrolled cardiac or respiratory disease
  • Uncontrolled seizures
  • Extreme water fear that cannot be managed safely with gradual desensitisation
If aquatic work is unsuitable, we plan land-based rehabilitation instead — physiotherapy, laser, manual therapy, and other modalities as indicated. Treating a cat? Most cats are water-averse — start with our <a href="/services/cat-hydrotherapy/">cat hydrotherapy</a> suitability guide or the <a href="/services/cat-rehabilitation/">cat rehabilitation hub</a>.
Loved by Pet Parents

Rated Excellent by 230+ families

5.0 average on Google
Google

My family and I would like to thank RehabVet team for the care,…

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.

Sherman Lau

Google

Clean environment and knowledgeable people who loves pets.

Clean environment and knowledgeable people who loves pets. Highly recommended.

Jane Alexis

Google

Great place for rehab and therapist

Great place for rehab and therapist

Zhen Bin

Google

The only place that Aiko loves so wholeheartedly, greeting all…

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!

Jasper Tay

Google

This clinic combines effective treatment, compassionate handling,…

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. 👍🏻

CT Tan

Google

We visited Rehabvet as Bruno was having some mobility issues with…

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.

Delwin Singh

Google

This is the best rehab clinic for my dog.

This is the best rehab clinic for my dog.

banleng ho

Google

We've been bringing Kuma to RehabVet for physiotherapy and the…

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.

Christine Fan

Google

Had a very positive experience at the rehab vet.

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.

G Tey

Google

We're truly grateful to Dr.

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!

Jas Sim

Google

Haru has been going to rehabvet since Nov 2025 to manage his…

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.

Cherly K

Google

I can't recommend RehabVet highly enough!

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!

JC Lim

Google

We've been taking our dog to Rehab Vet Singapore for about 6–7…

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!

Denise Lui

Google

Went to RehabVet for a second opinion on a serious limp my husky had…

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.

Ross

Google

As a fur mummy, finding people who genuinely care for and love our…

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.

Lynn Wong

Google

My Shih Tzu, August, has osteoarthritis and he was unable to walk.

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!

Angeline Lee

Google

Bubble has been with Rehab Vet for years as he grows older and…

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

Joanne

Google

Great 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 :)

Choy Yu Chan

Google

Rehabvet was recommended to us by our vet because our dog dislocated…

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)!!

Joyce Tan

Google

Having been to several vets and rehabs with my senior Shih Tzu, my…

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!

Isabel Chong

Google

I can't thank Xan and his team at RehabVet enough for the incredible…

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.

YT Ng

Google

Always a pleasant experience here at RehabVet- clean area, calm…

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!

Henrietta Tan

Google

Sean is an incredibly caring and skilled rehab therapist.

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!

Eunice Lai

Google

Have a wonderful experience with the team at Rehab Vet.

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.

Jan Chua

Google

My senior dog has been with rehabvet since Sept 2025 after her leg…

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!

jy ng

Google

Newly renovated place, more conducive for therapy sessions.

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.

Gladys Woon

Google

The therapists are patient and helped improved my dog's arthritis…

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.

Annie Lau

Google

My dog has been coming to rehabs for hips dysplasia at a young age…

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.

SHIRLEY YEO

Google

Mochi enjoys his physio sessions with Rehabvet.

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.

ST Chua

Google

We've sent both our dogs to RehabVet for some years now.

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.

Aylwin Jean

Our People

Meet the RehabVet Team

Qualified rehabilitation and hydrotherapy specialists, dedicated to your pet's recovery.
Founder

Dr. Sara Lam

Founder & Lead Veterinarian

BVSc (Sydney), CCRT, CVA

Dr Sara founded RehabVet with a vision to give Singapore's pets comprehensive rehabilitation care. She holds a Bachelor of Veterinary Science from the University of Sydney, is a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) and a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA) — and has built RehabVet into Singapore's leading animal rehabilitation clinic.

Xan Chuah Yee Chien, Senior Therapist
Xan Chuah Yee Chien

Senior Therapist

Xan graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine from National Chiayi University and has four years of experience working as a small

Sean Tan, Senior Therapist
Sean Tan

Senior Therapist

Having been in the equestrian sector with Way Of The Horse since 2012, Sean is an experienced horse trainer and manager.

Joyce Ho, Senior Therapist
Joyce Ho

Senior Therapist

Joyce came from a pet grooming background where she has learnt valuable tips in being able to handle an animal with patience and care.

Hazel Lim in peach scrubs smiling and hugging a fluffy golden curly dog at the RehabVet clinic counter
Hazel Lim

Therapist

Hazel holds a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from AIMST University in Malaysia.

Claire, Client Relations, Marketing & Business Development Manager
Claire

Client Relations, Marketing & Business Development Manager

Claire supports the clinic's daily operations, social media, marketing, events, partnerships and client relations, aiming to make every

FAQs

Questions owners ask before the first session

Answers reflect how RehabVet actually books and prices aquatic care in clinic — pathways, session lengths, packages, and house policies.

We run three aquatic pathways that appear in our clinic booking system: Hydrotherapy (often inside a multimodal Rehabilitation visit), dedicated UWTM underwater treadmill sessions, and Fitness Swim in our saltwater pool. After assessment, your therapist recommends which pathway fits your dog’s condition and goals.

Dedicated UWTM and Fitness Swim sessions are booked as 45 minutes. When hydrotherapy is part of a Rehabilitation visit, the appointment is typically 60 minutes and may include other modalities in the same slot. Our clinic terms note that packages with aquatic therapies include 15 minutes of showering and drying within the booked duration, and sessions end on time even if you arrive late.

Pricing follows our clinic catalogue and is weight-tiered. Examples (subject to change; confirmed at booking):

  • Rehab single session (may include hydrotherapy): from $310 (<15 kg) / $350 (>15 kg)
  • Rehab packages: 5-session from $1,049.50; 10-session from $2,099 (<15 kg tiers)
  • UWTM packages: 5-session from $649.50; 10-session from $1,299 (<15 kg)
  • Fitness Swim: singles from $130; 5-session packages from $499.50 (<15 kg)

Heavier weight tiers and peak consultation fees differ. We quote the exact pathway after your dog’s assessment. For owner-facing context on what influences cost, see what to expect from dog hydrotherapy.

Both are available. Many owners start with an assessment and a single rehab or swim visit, then move onto a 5- or 10-session package once the plan is clear. In our clinic records, Rehab 5- and 10-session packages are the most commonly purchased pathways that include hydrotherapy; dedicated UWTM and Fitness Swim packages are also available for dogs on a treadmill- or swim-focused plan.

New patients begin with a rehabilitation assessment so we can examine gait, joints, and medical history before any aquatic work. Consultation fees in our catalogue include peak and off-peak options; a reassessment is $139 when required (for example after a long gap or a new medical condition). We coordinate start timing with your primary vet after surgery — aquatic work only begins once wounds are appropriately healed. Book an assessment online or WhatsApp us.

Please arrive at least 15 minutes early so your dog can settle and prepare. Aquatic packages include showering and drying inside the session time. Cancellations or rescheduling need at least 24 hours’ notice, or the session is considered used. Packages are valid for 6 months (half package) or 1 year (full package) from the date of signing, per our clinic terms. Our clinic is at 513 Serangoon Road, #01-01, Singapore 218154.

The underwater treadmill keeps your dog walking on a belt with controlled water depth and speed — useful for gait retraining and adjustable weight-bearing. Fitness Swim is non-weight-bearing swimming for conditioning. Many medical rehab cases favour the treadmill because it practises normal walking patterns; swimming suits dogs who need buoyancy-dominant exercise or general fitness. See our underwater treadmill page for more detail, or jump to the comparison section above.

Often yes. The treadmill fills gradually while your dog is already standing on the belt, so many anxious dogs adapt over the first few visits with calm handling and short introductions. Extreme water fear that cannot be managed safely is a reason we may recommend land-based physiotherapy instead. We never force a dog into the water.

Hydrotherapy may be unsuitable for dogs with open or infected wounds, uncontrolled infectious disease, severe uncontrolled cardiac or respiratory disease, uncontrolled seizures, certain active skin conditions, or immediately after surgery before wound closure. We screen every dog at assessment. If aquatic work is not appropriate, we plan land-based rehabilitation instead. Read our fuller notes on rehab and hydrotherapy contraindications.

Sessions are delivered by RehabVet’s trained rehabilitation and hydrotherapy team under veterinary oversight led by Dr Sara Lam (BVSc, CCRT). Hydrotherapy is one of the modalities our therapists use inside personalised plans — not a drop-in swim class. Meet the wider team on our about page.

Start with an Assessment

Ready to see if hydrotherapy fits your dog?

Book online or WhatsApp us — we’ll assess gait and history before recommending treadmill, swim, or a multimodal rehab plan at our Serangoon Road clinic.
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