195+ reviews · Singapore's First Vet Rehab Clinic

Dog Acupuncture in Singapore —Drug-Free Pain Relief That Works

RehabVet is Singapore's first dedicated veterinary rehabilitation clinic. Our TCVM-trained team uses acupuncture to treat pain, arthritis, IVDD, and neurological conditions in dogs and cats — naturally, without heavy medication.

No referral needed · Dogs & cats welcome · $90–$250/session

As featured in

Straits TimesCNATODAYZaobaoRice Media

Your pet is in pain — and you've tried everything.

The painkillers help for a few hours, but the stiffness returns. Your dog struggles to get up in the morning, avoids the stairs, or can't play like they used to. Maybe they've been diagnosed with IVDD, arthritis, or hip dysplasia — and surgery isn't an option, or didn't solve everything.

Long-term medication worries you. The side effects — stomach issues, kidney strain, liver damage — are real risks, especially for older dogs. You want a treatment that addresses the root cause, not just the symptoms.

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?

The science behind the needles

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. Research published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine and the Journal of Small Animal Practice has demonstrated measurable improvements in pain scores, mobility, and quality of life in dogs receiving acupuncture.

At RehabVet, acupuncture is never a standalone afterthought — it's a core pillar of our multimodal rehabilitation approach. Depending on your pet's condition, we combine acupuncture with Class 4 laser therapy, underwater treadmill hydrotherapy, physiotherapy exercises, and herbal medicine to create a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.

Natural Pain Relief

Triggers endorphin release — your pet's own natural painkillers. Reduces reliance on NSAIDs and opioids.

Accelerated Healing

Increases blood flow to damaged tissue, promoting faster recovery from surgery, injury, and chronic conditions.

Reduced Inflammation

Modulates the immune response, decreasing inflammatory markers that contribute to pain and joint damage.

Improved Mobility

Relaxes muscle spasms, reduces nerve compression, and restores range of motion — especially in senior dogs.

Types of veterinary acupuncture we offer

Dry Needle Acupuncture
Traditional acupuncture using fine, sterile needles inserted at specific acupoints. The foundation of every treatment plan.
Electroacupuncture
Mild electrical stimulation applied through acupuncture needles for deeper, more sustained effect. Particularly effective for neurological conditions and severe pain.
Aquapuncture
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.
Moxibustion
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

What to expect at your first visit and every session after

1
Comprehensive Assessment
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.
2
Treatment Plan
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.
3
Needle Placement
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.
4
Treatment (15–30 minutes)
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.
5
Post-Session Review
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

From chronic pain to post-surgery recovery

Chronic Pain & Arthritis

Osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease, chronic musculoskeletal pain — acupuncture reduces inflammation and triggers endorphin release for natural, drug-free pain management.

IVDD (Slipped Disc)

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.

Hip & Elbow Dysplasia

Acupuncture relieves the chronic pain and muscle tension associated with dysplasia, improving mobility and quality of life without relying solely on long-term medication.

Post-Surgery Recovery

Cruciate ligament repair, spinal surgery, fracture fixation — acupuncture accelerates healing, manages post-operative pain, and reduces swelling after surgical procedures.

Neurological Conditions

Vestibular disease, degenerative myelopathy, facial nerve paralysis — acupuncture stimulates nerve function and supports neurological recovery.

Senior Dog Wellness

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.

Anxiety & Behavioural Issues

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.

Kidney & Organ Support

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

Why pet owners in Singapore choose acupuncture at RehabVet

FactorAcupunctureNSAIDs / MedicationSurgery
Side effectsMinimal to noneGI upset, liver/kidney strainAnaesthesia risk, infection, long recovery
InvasivenessNon-invasiveOral / injectableHighly invasive
Long-term useSafe indefinitelyRisk increases over timeOne-time (usually)
Addresses root causeYes — promotes healingNo — masks symptomsDepends 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 Cost in Singapore

Transparent pricing — no hidden fees

$90–$150
Standard Acupuncture
Dry needle acupuncture, 20–30 min session
$150–$250
Electroacupuncture / Combined
Electroacupuncture + additional modalities

An initial consultation is required for new patients. Exact pricing depends on the complexity of your pet's condition and the treatment modalities recommended. Contact us for a detailed quote.

Why Choose RehabVet for Dog Acupuncture?

Not all veterinary acupuncture is created equal

Singapore's first and only dedicated veterinary rehabilitation clinic

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.

Multimodal treatment — acupuncture + modern rehabilitation

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.

TCVM-trained veterinary professionals

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.

195+ verified 5-star Google reviews

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.

Featured in Straits Times, CNA, TODAY, and more

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

Singapore's veterinary acupuncture landscape

FeatureRehabVetGeneral Vet ClinicsMobile Acupuncture
Dedicated rehab facility✓ Purpose-built✗ General practice✗ Home visits
Multimodal treatment✓ Acu + laser + hydro + physioLimitedAcupuncture only
Specialist team✓ Full rehab team1–2 trained vets1 vet
Google reviews195+ (4.9★)VariesLimited
Equipment✓ Full rehab suiteBasicPortable only

Meet Your Rehabilitation Team

Qualified rehabilitation specialists — not general practice vets

Dr. Sara Lam
Dr. Sara Lam
Lead Veterinarian
Xan Chuah Yee Chien
Xan Chuah Yee Chien
Senior Therapist
Noelle Lim
Noelle Lim
Senior Therapist
Hazel Lim
Hazel Lim
Therapist
Joyce Ho
Joyce Ho
Hydrotherapist
Sean Tan
Sean Tan
Hydrotherapist
4.9 / 5

195+ verified Google reviews

What Pet Owners Say About Dog Acupuncture at RehabVet

C
Cherly K.

Haru has been going to RehabVet since Nov 2025. We witnessed huge improvements through ultrasound/laser therapy, land exercises and hydrotherapy. Exceptional care all round!

S
Shalene L.

After consulting RehabVet, Scotty went from constant limping to running again. The therapists are so detailed and patient — couldn't recommend them more highly.

J
Jas S.

Truly grateful to Dr. Sara, the entire team, and especially Xan. Milo was diagnosed with IVDD Grade 3. The whole team has shown such genuine care throughout his recovery journey.

M
Michelle W.

My senior Labrador had severe arthritis and could barely walk. After 6 acupuncture sessions at RehabVet, the improvement was remarkable. She is now able to go on short walks again.

D
David T.

Our French Bulldog had IVDD and was paralysed. The team at RehabVet combined acupuncture with hydro and physio. Within 2 months, he was walking. Genuine miracle workers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Acupuncture

Answers to what Singapore pet owners ask most

Getting Started Is Simple

No referral needed. Takes 2 minutes to book.

1
Book Online
Schedule a consultation via our booking system — takes 2 minutes
2
Assessment
Dr. Sara's team evaluates your pet and creates a tailored treatment plan
3
Begin Treatment
Start your pet's recovery with expert-guided acupuncture sessions
Book a Consultation

Related Rehabilitation Services

Visit RehabVet Clinic

513 Serangoon Road, #01-01
Singapore 218154 · Central location, easy parking
Mon–Wed & Fri: 11am–8pm
Thursday: 9am–6pm
Weekends: 10am–6pm

Give your pet natural, lasting relief.

Join 1,800+ pets who've found relief at Singapore's first dedicated rehabilitation clinic. Book a consultation today — no referral needed.

Book Now

Dogs & cats · 195+ 5-star reviews · $90–$250/session