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I talked to Dr. Broussard yesterday, to follow up on the test results from earlier in the week. She said what I suspected: it's very good news that the swelling in Thirteen's leg is arthritis rather than bone cancer, but it's also frustrating news because there's not a lot we can do about arthritis.

We're already doing all the obvious things: rimadyl, glucosamine and fish oil twice a day, and trying to reduce Thirteen's weight. Also I had made an appointment with a pet acupuncturist, which Dr. Broussard seemed very positive about. (And yes, in case you hadn't guessed already, I am insane over my dog.)

I asked if we should try to keep Thirteen active or not. Dr. Broussard said that mild activity might help to keep the joint lubricated, but we should avoid anything too strenuous and also keep an eye on whether she seems more lame the morning after exercise. Thirteen wasn't exactly a frisbee-chaser anyway, so I doubt overdoing it will be a problem. I think we should keep doing things like the lure chase, where Jane gets a good workout and Thirteen gets her own exercise just coming along to watch.

Also Dr. Broussard suggested that we might look into herbal remedies. Like alfalfa, which supposedly reduces pain from arthritis. Coincidentally I happened to meet the people who do the People's Pharmacy recently. I think I'll hit them up for advice next time I talk to them.