As a holistically trained veterinarian for 35 years, I have seen so many dogs get to their ideal weight when put onto a great raw meaty bone diet. See my website for some articles and blogs on this. sometimes we find that the energy field/quantum field also needs help with homeopathy or acupuncture to best absorb the food. There are some great practitioners in Houston (see my links page). Check out my books page for the nutrition books so you can see the amazing improvements with a fresh food diet.
And, yes, lots and lots of exercise is super important, though begin slowly. Maybe get some local teens who need badges or just love animals to come over and play with/walk/run. Or hire a pet walker. Head for the dog parks!
I’m having a hard time factoring the licking of the legs into the picture, particularly if diabetes was ruled out because that can cause strange sensations or lack of sensation.
However, drinking and peeing a lot means there IS a problem. Diabetes is a top suspect but if that was ruled out, something else is to blame. Which diagnostics were done? Urinalysis? Blood work? No abnormalities on these tests at all? Is there any swelling of the legs? Where does she lick? Feet or elsewhere? Any other changes in appetite, stamina …?
http://dawgbusiness.blogspot.ca/2010/03/symptoms-to-watch-for-in-your-dog.html