Watching an animal in pain and not being able to explain it to them is one of the hardest parts of owning one. They whimper standing up. They stop meeting you at the door. Painkillers help for a few hours and then it comes back, because the medication is managing the symptom while the underlying problem carries on.
RehabVet is Singapore's first dedicated veterinary rehabilitation clinic, and pain is what most of our patients arrive with. We treat it the way pain is treated properly in both human and veterinary medicine: multimodally — several approaches layered together, targeting the source as well as the sensation, and reassessed as things change. No referral is needed to book an assessment.
Get your pet's pain properly assessed
A rehabilitation veterinarian will identify where the pain is coming from and build a treatment plan around it.
Dogs and cats conceal pain — it is instinct, not stoicism, and it means owners routinely underestimate how long a problem has been building. Vocalising is a late sign. What tends to come first is a quiet narrowing of what your pet is willing to do.
Cats almost never limp visibly, which is why feline pain is so badly under-diagnosed. Look instead for a cat who has stopped jumping to their usual spots, takes the stairs in stages, has become scruffy because grooming hurts, is toileting outside the litter tray because climbing in is difficult, sleeps in new low-access places, or has quietly withdrawn from the household. See osteoarthritis in cats.
Sudden non-weight-bearing lameness, an inability to stand, sudden paralysis, or severe distress needs urgent veterinary attention, not a rehabilitation appointment. Contact your vet or the nearest emergency hospital first.
Pain is not one mechanism, so it does not respond well to one tool. Inflammation, mechanical overload from weak muscle, nerve irritation, muscle guarding and — in long-standing cases — a nervous system that has become sensitised and is amplifying the signal can all be running at once. Treating only one of them is why single-approach plans so often plateau.
A plan here is assembled from examination findings rather than sold as a fixed package. The components we draw on:
| Approach | How it contributes to pain relief |
|---|---|
| Class 4 laser therapy | Reduces inflammation and supports tissue repair at depth — often the fastest route to noticeable comfort in an arthritic or injured joint. |
| Veterinary acupuncture & TCVM | Modulates how pain is processed and eases muscle guarding; useful in chronic and senior cases where drug options are constrained. |
| Manual therapy | Releases the secondary muscle tension and trigger points that build up around a painful area and become a pain source of their own. |
| Hydrotherapy | Lets a painful animal move and build muscle with much of their bodyweight supported by water — movement without the usual load penalty. |
| Physiotherapy & therapeutic exercise | Rebuilds the muscle that supports a painful joint, which reduces the mechanical component of pain rather than masking it. |
| Shockwave therapy | Targets stubborn, chronic tendon and ligament pain that has not settled with more conservative treatment. |
| Electrotherapy (TENS / NMES) | TENS for pain modulation, particularly nerve-related pain; NMES to reactivate muscle that has shut down around a painful region. |
| Thermotherapy & cryotherapy | Simple, effective adjuncts for acute flares and post-session comfort, including as part of a home routine. |
More detail on each: Class 4 laser · acupuncture · TCVM · manual therapy · hydrotherapy · physiotherapy · shockwave therapy · electrotherapy · thermotherapy & cryotherapy
Joints are the single most common source of pain we see. The pattern is familiar: stiffness that eases a little once they warm up, reluctance to jump or climb, a shortened stride, and muscle quietly wasting over the affected limb because the animal has stopped using it properly.
Joint pain is also where rehabilitation has the most to offer, because so much of it is mechanical. A joint with weak muscle around it is loaded badly, which hurts, which causes further disuse — and that loop is something training can interrupt. Warm-water work is particularly useful here: buoyancy lets a sore joint move through range and build supporting muscle without carrying full bodyweight.
Common joint pain diagnoses we manage:
Plenty of dogs with joint pain are managed without surgery — mild ligament injury, early and moderate arthritis, and post-surgical stiffness often respond well to conservative care. Where surgery genuinely is the better option, we will tell you, and rehabilitation then supports the recovery either side of it.
Spinal and disc-related pain
IVDD, lumbosacral stenosis and spondylosis can produce severe back pain and nerve root irritation. Plans focus on comfort, core stability and avoiding provocative positions, alongside veterinary medical management. See IVDD and lumbosacral stenosis.
Nerve pain
Sudden yelping at light touch, obsessive licking of one limb, or pain out of proportion to the orthopaedic findings suggests a neuropathic component. It needs careful, low-provocation handling rather than aggressive deep work. See neuropathic pain.
Post-surgical pain
Structured rehabilitation reduces pain after orthopaedic and spinal surgery while preventing the muscle loss and gait compensations that create new pain later. Timing is coordinated with your surgeon.
Soft tissue and muscle pain
Strains, tendinopathy, iliopsoas injury and myofascial trigger points — common in active dogs and often missed because the limp is intermittent. See muscle strain and sprain and myofascial pain.
Chronic and sensitised pain
When pain has run for months, the nervous system itself can amplify it, which is why imaging can look unchanged while the animal is clearly worse. Treatment addresses both the tissue and the pacing. See chronic musculoskeletal pain.
Senior and palliative comfort
For older animals, and for those where the underlying disease will not improve, the goal is comfort, dignity and function for as long as possible. See senior mobility decline and palliative mobility support.
Condition pages: IVDD · lumbosacral stenosis · neuropathic pain · post-surgical rehabilitation · muscle strain & sprain · myofascial pain · chronic musculoskeletal pain · senior mobility decline · palliative mobility support
This matters most for the animals on long-term NSAIDs — usually older dogs, sometimes for years — where owners are understandably uneasy about the cumulative burden on kidneys, liver and gut.
Rehabilitation is not an alternative to veterinary analgesia and we will not present it as one. Medication is frequently what makes rehabilitation possible in the first place. What non-drug treatment can do is take load off the pharmacological side of the plan, and in some cases that creates room for the prescribing veterinarian to reduce a dose or lengthen an interval. That decision belongs to your vet, not to us — never adjust your pet's medication yourself. What we do is report on function and comfort so your vet is deciding with good information.
Pain assessment
A rehabilitation veterinarian works out where the pain is actually coming from — joint, spine, soft tissue or nerve — through examination, gait and posture analysis, palpation, joint range of motion and pain scoring, plus review of any imaging you bring. Compensatory sites are mapped too, because they are often what the owner is noticing.
A plan matched to the pain type
Arthritic pain, nerve pain, post-surgical pain and soft-tissue pain need different combinations. You get the reasoning, the expected schedule, and what we will measure — not a package number.
Treatment sessions
One-to-one and vet-supervised, typically 30–60 minutes. Comfort-focused modalities usually come first so that the strengthening work is tolerable, and the therapist adjusts within each session to how your pet is responding on the day.
Reassessment and adjustment
Pain scores, function and muscle measurements are repeated at intervals. If something is not helping, it comes out of the plan. We also give you a home routine — pacing, surfaces, warm-ups, flare management — because most of the week happens outside the clinic.
Coordination with your vet
We write to your primary veterinarian with findings and progress so the medical and rehabilitation sides of the plan are working from the same picture.
Watch for what they have stopped doing rather than waiting for a cry. Slow to rise after rest, hesitating at stairs or the car, shorter walks, less play, licking at one area, panting at rest, flinching when touched, a hunched posture, or new irritability are all common. Muscle loss over one limb is a strong indicator that pain has been present for a while. A veterinary examination is what confirms it and locates the source.
Sometimes, and it is a reasonable goal to discuss — particularly for a senior dog on long-term NSAIDs. Multimodal rehabilitation can reduce how much work the medication has to do. Any change to the prescription is your primary veterinarian's decision, made with our reports on function and comfort. Never adjust doses yourself, and do not stop analgesia in order to start rehabilitation.
Often, yes. Many dogs with arthritis, mild ligament injury, or post-surgical stiffness do well on conservative management — targeted exercise, hydrotherapy, laser and manual therapy. Whether that is appropriate depends on the specific diagnosis and severity, and some cases genuinely do need surgery. We will give you a straight assessment either way rather than defaulting to whichever answer keeps you in the clinic.
It is one of the more useful options, because buoyancy lets a painful joint move and build supporting muscle without carrying full bodyweight, and warm water eases muscle tension. It is not universally suitable — skin disease, uncontrolled cardiac or respiratory disease, some neurological presentations, and genuine fear of water can all rule it out. Suitability is decided at assessment.
Comfort-focused treatments such as laser and manual therapy can produce a noticeable change within the first few sessions for some animals. Rebuilding strength and changing habits takes considerably longer — weeks, not days. We track function rather than publishing success percentages, and we would rather set a realistic expectation at the assessment than an appealing one.
Yes — senior animals are a large part of this caseload. Age is not a contraindication; what matters is screening for concurrent cardiac, respiratory, kidney or neurological disease so the programme is dosed safely. Sessions for older patients are gentler and shorter, and paced to what they tolerate on the day.
Yes, and feline pain is significantly under-treated because cats hide it so well. We use low-stress handling with gentle physiotherapy, laser and acupuncture. If your cat has stopped jumping to their usual places, is grooming less, or is missing the litter tray, that is worth assessing. See cat rehabilitation.
No. Book an assessment directly, and bring any imaging reports, surgical notes and a current medication list. We will keep your primary vet informed.
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.
