Diet

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  An overweight or obese dog must lose excess weight to ease joint strain. This is often the easiest way to treat arthritis.
  
  

Exercise

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  Light to moderate exercise such as walking or swimming keeps stiff joints moving and helps the range of motion.
  
  

Surgery

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  When a dog has been injured, surgery may repair damaged or torn tissue causing pain in a joint.
  
  

Medication

• Aspirin helps some dogs. Others benefit from anti-inflammatory drugs that relieve arthritis pain and swelling.
  
  

Supplements

• Dietary joint supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin or herbs used for long-term treatment help ease pain and support the joints in many arthritic dogs.
  
  

Holistic

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  Massage or acupuncture is effective for some dogs, as it relaxes the dog and eases pain and inflammation.