Early Life & Education
Dr Jean-Paul Ly began his veterinary journey at the University of Sydney, earning a Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc) and building a foundation that would shape a long, inventive career in animal health. Over the years he added training in education, clinical nutrition, counselling, and microsurgery — a broad skillset that underpins his integrative approach to care.
Professional Milestones & Leadership
After surgical training and a period teaching in Australia, Dr Ly moved to Singapore in the 1980s, where he helped modernise clinical practice and later founded major referral services.
- He established the Animal Recovery Centre (ARC) and the Animal Recovery Veterinary Centre (ARVC), facilities that introduced advanced imaging and specialist surgery to the region.
- Today, he leads the Animal Wellness Referral Centre (AWRC) — a 24-hour emergency and referral centre combining conventional and complementary medicine.
Areas of Expertise (Including Pet Cloning)
Dr Ly’s core strengths are a blend of conventional surgery and integrative medicine, including:
- Microsurgery & Advanced Surgery — decades of operative experience.
- Veterinary Acupuncture & Integrative Therapies — one of the early adopters of acupuncture for animals in Australia and Singapore.
- Clinical Nutrition & Nutraceuticals — building dietary programs and supplements for chronic disease support.
- Regenerative Medicine — stem cells, immune-modulating therapies, and biologics for degenerative or chronic conditions.
- Pet Cloning — AWRC provides pet cloning services (DNA harvesting and coordination with specialist laboratories). Dr Ly has personal experience with the process, having had his own dog cloned, and now offers this service to owners seeking genetic replicas of their companions.
Pet Cloning — What It Means at AWRC (and Dr Ly’s Experience)
What cloning involves: Pet cloning typically begins with the collection of somatic cells (a DNA sample) from the donor animal. These cells are used in a laboratory process called somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) to create an embryo genetically identical to the donor. The cloned embryo is carried to term by a surrogate. The resulting animal is a genetic match, though behaviour and development are also shaped by environment.
Dr Ly’s personal story: He arranged for his own beloved cattle dog, Khan, to be cloned. The cloned pup was produced overseas and later returned to Singapore. This personal experience has informed how AWRC advises clients on cloning, balancing science with compassion.
How AWRC positions the service: AWRC frames cloning as one advanced option within a broad suite of wellness services. They provide DNA harvesting and guide owners on what cloning is — and isn’t (genetic copy, not identical personality). They coordinate with specialist labs abroad to perform the cloning.
Ethics, Expectations & Practical Notes
- Not a personality copy: Cloning produces a genetic twin; personality, behaviour, and health are also influenced by upbringing and environment.
- Cost & logistics: Cloning is an advanced and costly procedure requiring overseas specialist labs.
- Counselling & informed consent: Given the emotional nature of cloning decisions, Dr Ly and his team provide counselling to ensure owners understand scientific realities, welfare considerations, and possible alternatives.
AWRC Today — Services & Mission
Under Dr Ly’s leadership, AWRC is an integrative referral hospital that combines:
- Conventional medicine and surgery
- Complementary therapies (acupuncture, hydrotherapy, laser therapy)
- Advanced diagnostics and imaging
- Regenerative medicine (stem cells, immune cell therapy, platelet-rich plasma)
- Nutritional and wellness programs
The centre’s mission is to emphasise long-term wellness, evidence-informed innovation, and compassionate care for animals and their families.
Personal Philosophy & Legacy
Known for a “never give up” approach, Dr Jean-Paul Ly takes on cases that others may deem hopeless. His counselling and educational background shape how he communicates with pet owners and trains younger veterinarians.
The inclusion of pet cloning in AWRC’s suite of services reflects a consistent theme throughout his career: exploring advanced, sometimes unconventional tools that can safely offer meaningful options to pet owners.
With more than 40 years of experience, Dr Ly’s legacy is built on innovation, compassion, and the thousands of animal lives he has helped improve across Asia-Pacific.