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Treatment

Treatment will depend on the underlying cause. If your dog is overweight, you will need to make changes in the dog's daily diet. Your veterinarian will assist you in creating a food plan that will best work for your dog according to its breed, size and age. There are several medications that can be used to treat the symptoms and underlying causes your dog is suffering from. For example, pain relievers may be prescribed, along with steroids that can be used help to reduce inflammation in the muscles and nerves, allowing healing to take place.

Living and Management

Your role and that of your veterinarian in the period following treatment will vary according to the diagnosis.

Prevention

If you have a large breed dog, you will need to be on guard against allowing your dog to gain excess weight. Conversely, if your dog is a very rambunctious and energetic breed, you will want to observe the dog, and take note of any changes in movement or behavior after exercising, as some highly energetic dogs have a tendency to overdo it.