The Marty & Laura Show
Dr. Marty Greer and Laura Reeves deliver unique, fun, fact based conversations about pet health. Greer is the 2023 Westminster Kennel Club Veterinarian of the Year and author of “Your Pandemic Puppy.” Reeves is the host of the wildly popular, award-winning Pure Dog Talk podcast. From pro tips on selecting your new dog to what your dog’s runny eyes or your cat’s runny nose mean and what you should do about it, Marty and Laura will meet you where you are (in the car, on the treadmill, walking the dog) and bring you a good laugh, a great story and a br...
79 -- Canine Heart Disease Guide: Managing Mitral Valve Disease and DCM in Dogs
Canine Heart Disease Guide: Managing Mitral Valve Disease and DCM in Dogs
Marty and Laura dive into canine cardiac health, breaking down the causes, symptoms and life-extending treatments for the two most common acquired heart diseases in dogs: mitral valve disease in small breeds and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in large breeds. Mitral Valve Disease (Small Breed Dogs):Who it affects:Small breeds like Shih Tzus, Schnauzers and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.The Cause:Genetic factors lead to "knobby" protrusions on the left-side mitral valve, preventing a proper seal and causing blood to leak backward into the...78 -- Canine Eye Health: Navigating Cataracts, Glaucoma and the Third Eyelid
Canine Eye Health: Navigating Cataracts, Glaucoma and the Third Eyelid
In this final installment of our eye anatomy series, Marty and Laura break down the critical differences between common canine eye conditions, exploring the causes and treatments for cataracts, glaucoma, uveitis and issues affecting the third eyelid. Episode Highlights: Cataracts vs. Nuclear Sclerosis: We explain how rapid-onset cataracts are frequently linked to diabetes in dogs, while the harmless, cloudy-looking eyes seen in older pets are a natural aging change called nuclear sclerosis that does not lead to blindness. The Emergency of Glaucoma: Learn why high intraocular pressure is...77 -- Unlocking Canine Retina Health: Blindness, Detachments and Genetics in Dogs
Unlocking Canine Retina Health: Blindness, Detachments and Genetics in Dogs
Join Marty and Laura as they dive into the complex world of the canine retina, exploring common eye diseases, the dangers of retinal detachment and essential genetic health screenings. Our hosts focus on the canine retina, an essential part of the back of the eye that acts like the "film" in a camera to interpret light, images and motion. Because the retina is a highly complex structure, diagnosing retinal issues often requires the specialized equipment and training of a veterinary ophthalmologist. Key Topics Discussed: Retinal Detachment:This is...76 — Dog Eyelid Health Guide: Entropion, Dry Eye and Puppy Eye Emergencies
Dog Eyelid Health Guide: Entropion, Dry Eye and Puppy Eye Emergencies
Welcome back to the Marty and Laura Show! In this episode, we are continuing our deep dive into the fascinating world of canine eye care. You might think an eyelid is simple, but as Marty explains, there are six main categories of eyelid issues to watch out for: swellings, tumors, infections, allergies, immune-mediated diseases, and conformation. Key Topics in This Episode: Entropion vs. Ectropion:Learn the crucial difference betweenentropion(where the eyelid painfully rolls inward and scratches the eye) andectropion(the loose, droopy eyelids commonly seen in...75 — Canine Corneal Health: A Guide to Dog Eye Problems, Ulcers and Care
Join Marty and Laura as they "scratch the surface" of dog eye health, breaking down everything from painful corneal ulcers to the right way to safely wrestle your pup for their eye drops! We might be a little punch-drunk from a busy weekend of seminaring, but we are absolutely thrilled to kick off our new mini-series all about your dog's eyeballs! Today, we are keeping things focused on the cornea—that beautifully clear window at the very front of the eye. In this episode, we dive into: Eye Anatomy 101:Why the cornea needs to stay perfectly clear and why sudden cl...
74 -- Dog Training Schedules & Tips: Structuring Success for Puppies to Senior Dogs
Dog Training Schedules & Tips: Structuring Success for Puppies to Senior Dogs
Join experts Marty and Laura as they share practical scheduling tips, socialization hacks and communication strategies for training dogs of any age, from baby puppies to older rescues. Episode Highlights: The "3-3-3" Training Method:Discover how practicing three simple things, three times a day, for just three minutes can build a highly effective training routine for young dogs.100 Experiences in 100 Days:Learn how to easily socialize your puppy even with a busy schedule, using simple items around the house like different textured bath mats or new...73 — Managing Pet Allergies: Flea Control, Hair vs. Fur & Safe Preventatives
Managing Pet Allergies: Flea Control, Hair vs. Fur & Safe Preventatives
Discover the surprising hidden causes of pet allergies, the critical difference between hair and fur and why modern flea and tick preventatives are safer and more essential than ever for your pet's health. In this episode of The Marty and Laura Show, the hosts tackle a listener request to explore the root causes of pet allergies. Marty and Laura reveal that humans are frequently allergic to what their pets carry—such as cat litter, wool blankets, carpet powder or flea bites—rather than the animals themselves. To help mana...72 — Why Is My Dog Vomiting? Complete Guide to Causes, Red Flags and Home Remedies
Why Is My Dog Vomiting? Complete Guide to Causes, Red Flags and Home Remedies
Dr. Marty and Laura tackle one of the most common (and alarming) pet owner concerns: why is my dog throwing up? Topics covered include:
Foreign bodies— what dogs swallow, why it's dangerous and how to respond. Plus: the Outfoxed hood as a prevention toolClevor— a prescription eye-drop that safely induces vomiting (and why to avoid hydrogen peroxide)Canned spinach— a surprisingly effective home remedy for dogs that swallow small sharp objectsCerenia (maropitant)— the go-to anti-nausea drug, including its use for surgical recovery and car...71 — Tummy Trouble: Pet Owner’s Guide to GI Upset and Diarrhea
Tummy Trouble: Pet Owner's Guide to GI Upset and Diarrhea
Top Causes, Home Remedies and When to Call the Vet
In this episode of the Marty and Laura Show, we dive into one of the messiest and most urgent reasons pet owners rush to the clinic: doggie diarrhea. Veterinarian Dr. Marty Greer and host Laura Reeves explore the top triggers of GI upset, from the dreaded "dietary indiscretion" (eating garbage, scraps or wildlife droppings) to internal parasites and sudden food changes. We discuss the realities of managing "bad potty" and when it's safe to treat it...70 — The Complete Guide to Pet Dental Health: Anesthesia Safety & At-Home Care
The Complete Guide to Pet Dental Health: Anesthesia Safety & At-Home Care
Join hosts Laura and Marty to learn why anesthesia is absolutely necessary for your pet's dental cleanings, how to advocate for their surgical safety and the best strategies for brushing their teeth at home.
The Truth About Pet Dentistry:Laura and Marty discuss why anesthesia is required for a safe and effective dental cleaning. Scraping teeth while a pet is awake actually accelerates tartar build-up and prevents veterinarians from x-raying teeth or cleaning under the gum line.Advocating for Surgical Safety:Learn how to advocate...69 — Why Is My Cat’s Nose Running? Feline Upper Respiratory Infections Explained
Why Is My Cat's Nose Running? Feline Upper Respiratory Infections Explained
Marty and Laura tackle a listener question about runny noses in cats and kittens — and it turns into a deep dive on feline health essentials every cat owner needs to know.
Topics covered:
Common causes of feline upper respiratory infections (herpesvirus, calicivirus, chlamydia, Bordetella) and why herpes virus is a lifelong condition that flares under stressWhat FVRCP means and why keeping up with your cat's vaccines matters — even for indoor catsWhy cats "fall off the veterinary radar" after kittenhood and why that's dangerousThe risk...68 — Canine Good Citizen: How to Train Your Dog to Go Anywhere With You
Canine Good Citizen: How to Train Your Dog to Go Anywhere With You
Marty and Laura dig into what it really means to have a well-behaved dog in public and why good manners don't happen by magic.
Help your dog become a welcome guest anywhere — from brew pubs to barbecues — with expert guidance on the AKC Canine Good Citizen program, basic obedience fundamentals, service dog distinctions and therapy dog opportunities.
Topics include:
The core skills every dog should have: loose leash walking, settling, recall and reliable housetrainingWhy consistency, fairness and repetition are the...67 — Pet Grooming for Health: Toenails, Ears, Hot Spots & More
Spring shedding season is here — and that means it's time to talk about one of the most overlooked aspects of pet health: grooming. In this episode, Dr. Marty and Laura are back together (yes, Marty finally returned from New Zealand and Fiji) to break down why regular grooming is so much more than a cosmetic luxury. It is a genuine health necessity for your dog or cat.
First up, coats and bathing. Marty and Laura explain why getting all the way down to the skin matters — whether you're shampooing, blow-drying or brushing. They share tips on diluting your...
66 — Spring Gardening Hazards Your Pets Will Definitely Find
Spring Gardening Hazards Your Pets Will Definitely Find
Spring means gardens, chemicals and curious pets — a combination that can turn dangerous fast. Veterinarian Marty and host Laura break down what every pet owner needs to know before heading outside this season.
In This Episode
The ASPCA's toxic plant database is your first stop before planting anything new — it's free, searchable and includes photos. Not all "toxic" plants are equally dangerous: some cause a numb tongue, others can be fatal. Knowing the difference saves you money and panic.
For chemical hazards, herbicides are...
65 — When You Can’t Get Into the Vet: Safe Home Remedies for Dogs — and What to Never Try
When You Can't Get Into the Vet: Safe Home Remedies for Dogs — and What to Never Try
Getting a veterinary appointment can feel impossible right now — but that doesn't mean you're out of options. Dr. Marty Greer joins Laura Reeves to walk pet owners through the everyday products that are genuinely safe to use at home, and the ones that could land your dog in a serious emergency.
In this episode:
Dr. Marty covers the full medicine cabinet — what helps, what harms, and when to stop treating at home and get to a clinic...
64 — Pancreatitis in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Explained by a Vet Who’s Had It
Pancreatitis in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Pancreatitis is one of the most painful and misunderstood conditions affecting dogs — and one of the most common reasons pets end up hospitalized. Dr. Marty Greer, who has personally survived four bouts of pancreatitis, joins Laura Reeves to walk pet owners through everything they need to know, from early warning signs to long-term management.
What the pancreas actually does— and why problems with it affect everything from digestion to blood sugarAcute pancreatitis— warning signs to watch for (vomiting, severe abdominal pain, loss of appetite, dehydration) and why up to 30% of sev...63 — Neck Lumps, Ear Hematomas & “Happy Tail”: What That Sudden Swelling Might Mean
Neck Lumps, Ear Hematomas & “Happy Tail”: What That Sudden Swelling Might Mean
You wake up, look at your dog, and—boom—there’s a new lump on the jaw or neck. Before you spiral to “it’s cancer” or shrug it off as “no big deal,” Marty and Laura break down the most common causes of sudden swellings (from abscesses to salivary cysts), when it’s urgent, and what your vet can do to get answers fast.
On this episode of The Marty & Laura Show (brought to you by Doggit), Laura and Marty walk through the “lumps that should...
62 — How Much Does a Well-Bred Puppy Really Cost? Breaking Down Smart Puppy Buying
How Much Does a Well-Bred Puppy Really Cost? Breaking Down Smart Puppy Buying
What does it really cost to responsibly breed a litter of puppies—and why does that matter to you as a buyer? In this episode of The Marty and Laura Show, Laura and Dr. Marty walk through the real numbers behind well-bred dogs and explain why “you get what you pay for” is more than just a saying.
If you’re contemplating a new puppy, this episode is your behind-the-scenes look at what responsible breeders invest long before a puppy ever goes home.
61 — Health-Tested Parents Increase the Odds of Healthy Puppies
Health-Tested Parents Increase the Odds of Healthy Puppies
In this episode of The Marty and Laura Show, Laura and Marty explain why choosing a puppy from health-tested parents gives you the best chance at a long, healthy life together.
They break down what “health tested” really means — and why a simple vet check is not the same as proper genetic and structural screening.
In this episode:
The difference betweenDNA (genotype)andOFA/specialist exams (phenotype)How to verify results throughOFA and CHICWhy microchips matter in accurate reportingThe truth about “hybrid vigor”What responsible breeders s...60 — Dreams of Becoming a Veterinarian, Through the Eyes of a Child
In this episode, Laura Reeves and Dr. Marty Greer kick off an exciting new series focused on kids. From STEM education and scholarships to real-world advice about what it takes to become a veterinarian, this conversation is packed with insight for parents, educators and animal-loving kids dreaming of a future with animals.
Special guest Cora, a 10-year-old aspiring veterinarian and dog breeder, asks smart questions and steals the show.
Brief Show Notes
Introducing a new Kids’ Corner initiative, including downloadable coloring pagesWhat veterinarians really do—and why it’s one of the most versatile career...59 — Arctic Blast Survival: Safety Tips for Dogs, Cats and Livestock
Arctic Blast Survival: Safety Tips for Dogs, Cats, and Livestock
When brutal Arctic temperatures hit, our pets feel it just as much as we do—sometimes more. In this special cold-weather episode of The Marty and Laura Show, veterinarian Marty Greer and host Laura Reeves break down practical, real-world advice to keep dogs, cats, and outdoor animals safe during extreme cold snaps.
From frozen paws and vomiting show dogs to outdoor cats, heated water bowls, booties, jackets and emergency preparedness, this episode is packed with veterinarian-approved tips you can use immediately. Whether you live in th...
58 — Does My Dog Have a Drinking Problem?
Does My Dog Have a Drinking Problem?
Excessive drinking and urination in dogs can be alarming—and it’s rarely something to ignore. In this episode, Laura Reeves and veterinarian Dr. Marty Greer take a deep dive into polydipsia and polyuria (PD/PU), breaking down the most common causes, the less common “zebras,” and the critical diagnostic steps every dog owner should understand before restricting water.
Brief Show Notes:
Common causes of excessive thirst in dogs: kidney disease, diabetes, Cushing’sLess common (but serious) causes including lepto, hypercalcemia, Addison’s, and psychogenic polydipsiaWhy urine testing is j...57 — When You Hear Hoofbeats… Think Zebras: Rare Dog & Cat Diagnoses
When You Hear Hoofbeats… Think Zebras: Rare Dog & Cat Diagnoses
Marty and Laura dig into veterinary “zebras”—unusual or easily-misdiagnosed conditions in dogs and cats. Using the classic medical rule “when you hear hoofbeats, look for horses, not zebras,” they explain what these rare presentations can look like, when they’re urgent, and why a complete history (boarding exposure, wildlife encounters, travel, family/breed background) helps your veterinarian reach the right diagnosis faster.
What you’ll learn in this episode
Cat “zebras” (unusual but real)
Saddle thrombus in cats(often tied to underlying heart dis...56 — Helping Anxious Dogs (and Cats) Through Vet Visits & Holiday Chaos
Helping Anxious Dogs (and Cats) Through Vet Visits & Holiday Chaos
Holiday gatherings, noisy celebrations, and busy schedules can spike anxiety in dogs—and even cats. In this episode of The Marty and Laura Show, host Laura Reeves and veterinarian Dr. Marty Greer dig into the real-world challenges of anxiety, fear and stress-related behaviors in pets, especially during high-trigger seasons.
They cover what doesn’t work (spoiler: Benadryl and acepromazine aren’t true anxiety solutions) and explain what can help: structured training, “happy vet visits,” smart environmental choices, and medication plans that match the pet’s needs—whethe...
55 — Why Dogs Lick Their Feet (and What It Means)
Why Dogs Lick Their Feet (and What It Means)
If your dog is constantly licking, chewing, or biting their feet, it’s not “just a habit.” In this episode, Marty and Laura break down what foot licking really signals, why the red-colored staining happens, and how to sort out environmental allergies vs. food sensitivities.
You’ll learn why some dogs become “closet lickers,” why elimination diets must be strict for 12 full weeks and what modern prescription options may help itchy dogs feel better.
🐾 In This Episode, We Cover:
The difference betweenitch (sensation)andscratching/l...54 — Kitty Litter Box 101: The Real Reason Cats “Miss” (and How to Fix It)
Kitty Litter Box 101: The Real Reason Cats “Miss” (and How to Fix It)
The Marty and Laura Show with Dr. Marty Greer + Laura Reeves
If you live with a cat, you already know the truth: litter boxes are not exactly glamorous. But as Marty Greer points out in this episode of The Marty and Laura Show, litter box issues are one of the most common reasons cats lose their homes — and that’s why this “un-fun” topic is actually incredibly important.
In today’s deep dive, Laura Reeves and veterinarian Marty Greer tackle what every cat...
53 – Too LITTLE or Too MUCH: Addison’s vs. Cushing’s Disease in Dogs
Too LITTLE or Too MUCH: Addison’s vs. Cushing’s Disease in Dogs
In this episode, Marty and Laura dive into two often-confused but fundamentally opposite adrenal diseases in dogs: Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism) and Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism). While both involve the adrenal glands, one is caused by too little hormone production and the other by too much.
Marty explains the anatomy and function of the adrenal glands, how these diseases present very differently in real life, and why they can be so challenging to diagnose and manage. The conversation also addresses common misconceptions around g...
52 – Enjoying a Winter Wonderland with Your Pet
Enjoying a Winter Wonderland with Your Pet
Marty and Laura share great ideas for enjoying a winter wonderland with your pet. From snow angels to snow mountains to skijoring, they walk you through all the fun activities with a few safety precautions.
Should your dog have outfits and boots for the cold weather? Marty and Laura have some pro tips and a few funny stories about outfit failures on their own dogs.
“There are some tricks and tips to this,” Marty says. “First of all, I think the most dangerous temperature for the dogs i...
51 – STINKY! Holiday Grooming Prevents an Embarrassing Problem
STINKY! Holiday Grooming Prevents an Embarrassing Problem
Marty and Laura tackle a stinky problem for pet owners, explaining why holiday grooming can prevent an embarrassing situation.
Anal glands are the dog’s version of the scent glands on a skunk. They also express those glands when they are nervous or afraid. The glands can also become impacted or infected. Pet owners can avoid the embarrassment of their dog scooting his bottom across the carpet during holiday parties with a simple but effective treatment at the vet or groomer.
“They're little glands and they shou...
50 – Five Tips for Fun, Safe Holidays with Pets
Five Tips for Fun, Safe Holidays with Pets
Marty and Laura offer up five pro tips for a fun and safe holiday with pets. Sidenote, keep your eyes peeled for Marty during the National Dog Show on NBC at noon Thanksgiving Day.
Tip 1… Canned pumpkin, which may well be not entirely pumpkin, is great for dogs and cats! Give them a tablespoon in their food *before* you make the pie.
Tip 2 … Making soup stock from the turkey carcass? Save the cooked veggies for the dog’s dinner so they can join the celebration.
T...
49 – Shout Out to Our Heroes: Responsible Pet Owners
Shout Out to Our Heroes: Responsible Pet Owners
Marty and Laura are giving thanks and a shout out to the heroes of the week, responsible pet owners. These are folks who make sure their pets are fed and trained and vetted even when times are tough.
This week’s giving thanks charity is No Pet Hungry America.
“Millions of families across the country face impossible choices every day between paying rent, buying groceries or feeding their pets. No Pet Hungry America is here to change that.
“We provide pet food, supplies, and re...
48 – Giving Thanks: Science Helps Pets Live Longer, Healthier
Giving Thanks: Science Helps Pets Live Longer, Healthier
Marty and Laura give thanks for recent science breakthroughs that help our pets live longer, healthier lives. From decoding the canine genome to Artificial Intelligence, our pets are benefitting from scientific research.
Organizations such as the AKC Canine Health Foundation support this research which benefits all dogs, purebred and mixed breed, as well as frequently providing information that expands knowledge for treating human diseases. During the month of giving, we’re suggesting groups to support our pets with your donations.
“The artificial intelligence that's barreling at u...
47 – Giving Thanks for Our Veterinarians
Giving Thanks for Our Veterinarians
Marty and Laura share their thanks for veterinarians and staff who sacrifice to care for our pets.
“We know you're stressed,” Marty said of veterinarians and staff. “Your pet is sick. You were up all night cleaning up whatever it is that you had to clean up. And it's really hard to be gracious and to be lovely on the phone or in person when you're in that stressful situation. But I can't even begin to emphasize how important that is.
“The hardest job that we have at the vete...
46 – Giving Thanks for the Pets in Our Lives
Giving Thanks for the Pets in Our Lives
Marty and Laura kick off a month of giving thanks for the pets in our lives. Our animals brighten our days, bring us together with friends, provide companionship and comfort year round. So we decided to celebrate that special connection throughout November.
Since November is the month of giving, we’re also highlighting a different organization dedicated to animals and the people who love them each week. This week Marty shares information about her own non-profit, Pink Paw, which seeks to raise awareness of breast cancer in ou...
45 – “Howloween”: Costumes and Doorbells and Chocolates, Oh MY!
“Howloween”: Costumes and Doorbells and Chocolates, Oh MY!
Marty and Laura are joined by Glinda the Good Witch to talk about Halloween and the fun, as well as potential pitfalls, for our pets.
“Everybody wants to address their pet up in a cute little costume,” Marty noted. “And you know, some of them are fine and the pets are comfortable in them and they're not scary and they're really cute. And sometimes we're expecting just a little too much of our pets, depending on the pet and what they like.
“We have to respect ther...
44 – Fear Free Handling for Vets and Groomers
Fear Free Handling for Vets and Groomers
Marty and Laura talk about the concept of fear free handling of pets by veterinarians and groomers. A concept popularized by veterinarian Dr. Sophia Yin, the reality of working with pets to lower their stress in new situations isn’t all that new, Marty noted.
“I think fear free and low stress handling are important techniques. But this isn't new. And that's part of the frustration that I have with this, is we've always done things this way. It didn't have a name back then, but we've always put...
43 — Diabetes is Manageable with Early Detection
Diabetes is Manageable with Early Detection
Marty and Laura discuss the challenges of diabetes in pets, how to prevent, diagnose and manage the disease.
"Dogs that develop multiple episodes of pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas, they will oftentimes then become diabetic because there's so much scarring of the pancreas from the pancreatitis," Marty said.
"If you have a dog that's diabetic, they're going on insulin or you're not going to be able to keep them going," Marty added. "So you have to make a hard decision in a day or two...
42 – Heart Healthy Ideas for Pets
Heart Healthy Ideas for Pets
Marty and Laura share heart healthy ideas for our pets from weight management to fitness to genetics.
“We can't really talk about prevention without talking about genetics,” Marty said, “because from the very inception of a puppy, we can control their genetics to a certain extent. There are DNA tests. And there are phenotype tests that we can do for cardiac disease.
“I think it's really important if you're buying a dog from a breed that tends to have cardiac disease, that we start off with the foundation of do th...
41 – ITCH! Ear Mites Cause Scratching and Permanent Damage
ITCH! Ear Mites Cause Scratching and Permanent Damage
Marty and Laura tackle the big itch of ear mites, how to prevent, diagnose and treat them in your cats (and even dogs.)
“There are hundreds of mites in these cats ears, so it's no question that they are intensely itchy,” Marty said, while Laura opined the image was the stuff of nightmares.
“When we see an ear infection in a cat,” Marty said, “it's ear mites or somehow related to ear mites. And in a dog it may start as ear mites, especially if it's a you...
40 – OUCH! Cruciate Ligament Rupture Prevention and Repair
OUCH! Cruciate Ligament Rupture Prevention and Repair
Marty and Laura tackle the painful topic of cruciate ligament ruptures in dogs. They talk causes, prevention, treatment and new research that’s giving hope to eradicating the painful condition specifically in Labrador Retrievers.
“Statistically, five to 10% of Labradors will end up with a cruciate tear,” Marty said, “although there's a lot of variables in that. Certain breeds like greyhounds and corgis, they don't tear cruciates. Sometimes it's the age of spaying or neutering, sometimes there's definitely differences within the line of dogs. So there's a lot of variable...