The Marty & Laura Show

By Marty Greer DVM & Laura Reeves | Expert Veterinary Advice & Pet HealthKids & Family Pets & Animals

The Marty & Laura Show episodes

July 2284 — Unmasking Pet Cancer: The Surprising Truth About Genetics, Toxins and Hormone Trade-offs
Unmasking Pet Cancer: The Surprising Truth About Genetics, Toxins and Hormone Trade-offs
Hosts Dr. Marty Greer and Laura Reeves discuss the environmental, genetic and hormonal factors of pet cancer to help owners make informed health decisions for their dogs and cats.
Key Takeaways
Environmental Factors:Pesticide drift, groundwater chemicals and secondhand smoke are notable hazards. Cats are particularly vulnerable to oral squamous cell carcinoma from grooming smoke particles off their coats. Additionally, a high parathyroid cancer rate is observed in dogs near Fox Valley paper mills in Wisconsin.
Spay/Neuter Hormonal Trade-Offs:Early spaying or neutering increases the risk of lymphoma, hemangiosarcoma, osteosarcoma and mast cell tumors. While spaying before age two protects against mammary cancer, these other cancers are far more common and deadly. Ovaries and testicles produce protective hormones, making ovary-sparing spays and vasectomies valuable alternatives.
Genetics and Breed Risks:Many cancers have strong genetic links, such as lymphoma in Golden Retrievers, hemangiosarcoma in Spinoni, and transitional cell carcinoma in Scotties and Westies. However, after 25 years of research, veterinary geneticists still have not identified specific DNA markers for these common cancers, making complete screening impossible.
Supporting Research:Pet owners can support cancer studies and clinical trials through organizations like the AKC Canine Health Foundation, Morris Animal Foundation and the Pink Paw Fund.
33 min
July 1583 — Dog Seasonal Allergies: Apoquel, Cytopoint, Zenrelia & New Numelvi Meds Explained! 🐾
Dog Seasonal Allergies: Apoquel, Cytopoint, Zenrelia & New Numelvi Meds Explained! 🐾
Dr. Marty Greer and Laura Reeves move past food allergies to dive deep into the itchy world of seasonal pet allergies. From Marty’s hectic week and scenic family getaway to South Dakota to the latest medical breakthroughs, this episode is packed with essential advice to keep your pets comfortable.
Key Episode Takeaways
Understanding "Phenology": Nature’s calendar (like tracking the first robin or mosquito of the year) is incredibly consistent. If you track when your pet’s allergies flare up each year, you can start their medicationsone week earlyto stay ahead of the scratching.
The Allergy Treatment Toolkit:
Cytopoint: A targeted, monoclonal antibody injection that blocks the allergic reaction for 3 to 5 weeks.
Apoquel: The original JAK inhibitor, now available in a hypoallergenic chewable form.
Zenrelia: A newer option that carries a strictFDA black box warning—never vaccinate your dog within 30 daysof being on this medication.
Numelvi: The newest second-generation JAK inhibitor on the block. It works in as little as 45 minutes, costs slightly less, and features a highly entertaining"Resting Itch Face"ad campaign starring a crinkly-faced French Bulldog.
Is Prednisone Still Good?: Yes! While newer medications are great for smaller dogs, cheap and classic prednisone is still an effective anti-inflammatory choice for larger dogs or the very end of the allergy season. However, Marty warns that long-acting steroid injections are highly dangerous and can lead to diabetes or Addison's disease.

At-Home Environmental Hacks: Bathing your allergic pet as often as once a week is a safe way to physically wash away contact pollens. Also, be aware that the cozy "fall smell" of raked leaves is actually mold, which can trigger allergic dogs right up until a full snow cover blankets the ground.

A Warning for Cat Owners: Cats rarely experience seasonal allergies. If your cat is chewing or licking its paws, it could actually point to liver problems that require blood work and a liver ultrasound.

Behind the Scenes: Marty breaks down a hilarious "color-matching" marketing trick in TV drug ads and shares a story about spotting a massive "Skin Vet" sign painted on a rooftop in New Zealand.
33 min
July 0882 — Pet Allergies & Prevention: Treating Contact Allergies, Bug Bites and Vaccine Reactions
Pet Allergies & Prevention: Treating Contact Allergies, Bug Bites and Vaccine Reactions
Marty and Laura break down how to identify and manage contact allergies, insect bites and vaccine reactions in pets, while sharing why choosing an individualized veterinary care plan is vital for your pet's long-term health.
This deep dive shifts focus from food allergies, tackling the lesser-known triggers of pet discomfort -- ranging from contact allergies on a pet’s belly to dangerous spider bites and sudden vaccine reactions. Marty shares crucial safety tips on using over-the-counter medications like Benadryl, demystifies oral vs. topical pest preventatives and closes with a passionate look at why pet owners must advocate for individualized veterinary medicine over "cookie-cutter" clinic protocols.
Spotting and Managing Contact Allergies
Where They Appear:Unlike food or environmental allergies, contact allergies almost always present exclusively on the underside of a pet, typically their bellies, feet, groin/scrotum or mammary glands.
Common Triggers:Household items like new wool or knitted blankets, carpet powder and color/scent-filled laundry detergents are frequent culprits.
Practical Solutions:Wash pet bedding in dye- and scent-free "free" detergents. If a dog is sensitive to couch fabrics or sprays, cover their favorite spot with a clean white sheet washed in safe detergent.
Breed Sensitivities:White-coated dogs (such as West Highland White Terriers, Dalmatians and Setters) often have more sensitive skin than darker-colored dogs.
Spicy Bites & Spider Bites: Emergency Care at Home
Dogs vs. Cats:Dogs are highly susceptible to severe reactions from bee stings (including facial and airway swelling), whereas cats rarely have these issues.
The Danger of Spiders:Marty notes that she treats far more severe reactions from spider bites (such as brown recluse or black widows) than bee stings. These bites can cause aggressive, necrotic skin lesions that are difficult to diagnose because pets can’t tell us what bit them.
Using Benadryl Safely:Benadryl is safe to use at home for acute insect-bite facial swelling.
Dosage:The proper dosage is2 to 4 milligrams per kilogram(calculated by dividing your dog's weight in pounds by two, and then multiplying by two to four).
Safety Warning:Only use straight Benadryl. Never administer products mixed with Tylenol, other pain medications, or liquid formulations containingxylitol(which is toxic to dogs).
Flea Allergies: Sensitive pets can experience severe flea-bite dermatitis from just one single flea bite a week.
Oral vs. Topical Pest Preventatives
Oral Preventatives:Modern oral medications (like Bravecto, Credelio, NexGard, and Simparica) offer fantastic protection against fleas and ticks, but theydo notrepel mosquitoes or biting flies.
Topical Preventatives:High-quality prescription topicals (such as Vectra 3D) provide excellent repellency, acting like a "shield" that keeps biting bugs off your pet entirely.
The Seizure Risk:Oral flea and tick medications of this class can lower the seizure threshold in seizure-prone dogs. Injectable long-lasting preventatives (like the one-year Bravecto Quantum) are convenient but should only be started once a dog has safely tolerated the oral class first.
Natural Products Myth:Marty cautions that natural repellents (like Wondercide or home remedies like Guinness Beer) are not reliably effective at preventing tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease.
28 min
July 0181 — Pet Food Allergies in Dogs and Cats: Myths, Symptoms and Elimination Diets
Pet Food Allergies in Dogs and Cats: Myths, Symptoms and Elimination Diets
Dr. Marty Greer and Laura debunk common pet food myths about corn and wheat while sharing step-by-step veterinary strategies for diagnosing genuine food allergies and sensitivities in dogs and cats.
Symptoms & Presentation: Unlike human food allergies, pet food allergies primarily manifest as skin issues—such as intense scratching, chewing, biting and ear infections—rather than digestive upset. Only about 20% of allergic dogs show signs of vomiting and diarrhea. In cats, symptoms are heavily concentrated as intense scratching around the head and neck.
Debunking the Corn Myth: Despite the popularity of "no corn, wheat, or soy" marketing, the most common food allergens for dogs are actually beef, chicken, lamb, wheat and dairy. For cats, the top allergens are beef, chicken and fish.
The Inefficacy of Retail Allergy Tests: Blood, saliva and skin test kits sold online are unreliable. Veterinary dermatologists do not recommend them.
How to Run a Strict Food Trial: The only reliable diagnostic method is a provocative food trial lasting up to 12 weeks. This involves feeding the pet either a prescription hydrolyzed protein diet (where proteins are broken down so small that the immune system doesn't detect them) or a carefully prepared homemade diet. During the trial, the pet must consumeonlythis food and water—no treats, rawhides or table scraps.
Systematically Identifying Allergens: After a successful trial, owners can systematically introduce one ingredient back into the diet per week (such as beef, chicken or wheat) and track reactions on a calendar to identify specific triggers.
Allergies vs. Sensitivities vs. Food Poisoning: Allergies prompt immune-mediated skin issues, whereas food sensitivities present as digestive discomfort, chronic diarrhea or picky eating. True food poisoning comes from spoiled foods, dead animals or unique toxins—such as a pink mold on soft cheeses (like cream cheese) that can cause seizures in dogs.
Predisposed Breeds: Food allergies are most frequently seen in Labradors, German Shepherds and West Highland White Terriers for dogs, and in Oriental breeds like Siamese, Persian and Burmese for cats.
Helpful Resources:
Homemade Diets
Balanceit
39 min
June 2480 — The 30,000-Foot View on Pet Allergies: A High-Level Overview for Pet Owners
The 30,000-Foot View on Pet Allergies: A High-Level Overview for Pet Owners
Marty and Laura break down how to identify environmental, food and contact allergies in your pets, explain why dogs react in their feet rather than sneeze and share essential, money-saving pro-tips to help you prepare for your next veterinary clinic visit.
Episode Highlights:
The "Rust-Colored Toes" Clue:Discover why dogs chew and lick at their feet when reacting to pollen, molds or dust mites. This biological quirk is actually due to allergy-sensitive mast cells being located in their paws.
Food vs. Environmental Allergies:Learn how to spot the difference between food-based allergies (which can cause GI issues or chronic ear infections) and environmental atopy, which typically doesn't flare up until a pet's second summer.
Don't "Wash the Crime Scene":Find out why bathing your pet or wiping out their gooey ears the night before a vet visit actually washes away the critical physical evidence your veterinarian needs to make an accurate diagnosis.
The Smartphone Vet Prep Checklist:Discover how taking videos of scratching behaviors, photographing food labels and placing a nickel or Bic pen next to skin lesions for scale can make your next vet visit faster, more efficient and cheaper.
The Veterinary "MyChart" Mystery:Learn why there is no universal patient portal for pets, why you need to keep your own consolidated records and why securing pet health insurance early on is a lifesaver.
34 min
June 1779 — 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 left atrium.
Proactive Monitoring:Owners should count their dog’s resting respiratory rate monthly while they are horizontally asleep. Normal is 26 to 32 breaths per minute; rates climbing past 38 to 40 require veterinary attention.
Symptoms:Look out for reduced exercise tolerance, weight loss (cardiac cachexia), and a persistent cough (often caused by an enlarged heart pressing on the trachea).
Prevention & Care:Excellent dental health and routine brushing can prevent bacteria from latching onto damaged heart valves.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy / DCM (Large Breed Dogs):
Who it affects:Primarily large breeds like Great Danes, Dobermans, Boxers and Newfoundlands, with rare exceptions in small terriers.
The Cause:The heart muscle becomes flabby and weak, impairing its ability to contract. DCM can stem from genetic factors, chemotherapy drugs or nutritional deficiencies (taurine and L-carnitine) linked to grain-free or legume-rich diets.
Symptoms & Risks:Unlike small dogs, large dogs with DCM are highly prone to dangerous arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), fainting and sudden acute heart failure.
Diagnosis and Modern Treatments:
Diagnosis is Accessible:Any primary care veterinarian can diagnose an enlarged heart using a standard chest X-ray and a Vertebral Heart Score (VHS) to normalize heart size against the spine.
Improved Lifespans:While dogs diagnosed with heart disease historically survived only six months, modern medications can give them two to three more high-quality years.
Primary Medications:Treatment frequently relies onPimobendan(a veterinary-only drug that strengthens heart contractions), ACE inhibitors (enalapril or benazepril), and diuretics like furosemide (Lasix) or spironolactone.
Cardiac Emergencies:Tears in the chordae tendineae (fibers holding the valve) can trigger sudden, severe failure. Advanced hospital care can include oxygen, sildenafil (Viagra) for pulmonary hypertension, nitroglycerin, and amlodipine. Note that canine CPR is rarely successful in chronic cardiac arrest, so owners should not harbor guilt if they cannot revive an arresting pet.
36 min
June 10 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 a major emergency in dogs. Unlike in humans, a dog's eye pressure can shoot up overnight, potentially causing permanent blindness within 24 hours if not treated immediately. Symptoms to watch for include a bulging eye, a "steamy" cornea, and a red sclera.
Uncovering Uveitis: We discuss uveitis, a condition characterized by low eye pressure and inflammation. Because "the eyes are the window to the brain," uveitis often signals a deeper underlying disease, such as a tick-borne illness or an infection, requiring a thorough veterinary workup.
Third Eyelid Troubles: Discover the mysteries of the canine third eyelid. We demystify "cherry eye" (a prolapsed gland that looks scary but isn't painful) and discuss follicular conjunctivitis, a common and easily treatable inflammation caused by environmental irritants like pollen and dust.
41 min
June 0377 — 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 a severe condition that usually results in blindness. In dogs, it can be triggered by trauma, tumors, immune-mediated diseases, uveitis, or high blood pressure linked to kidney failure or hyperthyroidism. While humans can often have their retinas reattached via laser, it is incredibly difficult and rare to successfully reattach a dog's retina.
Hidden Blindness in Pets:Dogs and cats are incredibly skilled at hiding their vision loss by memorizing their home's layout. Owners may not realize their pet is going blind until they rearrange the furniture or move to a new house.
SARD (Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration):A rare, irreversible condition of unknown cause where a dog suddenly goes blind.
The Dangers of Merle-to-Merle Breeding:Breeding two dogs with the Merle gene (such as Aussies or Collies) can produce puppies with severe visual and hearing impairments. It is crucial to DNA test for "cryptic Merles" to avoid accidentally crossing two Merle dogs.
The "Hybrid Vigor" Myth:Mixing two breeds, such as a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle to make a Bernadoodle, does not magically cure or filter out bad genetic traits. Sometimes, this combination actually doubles up on genetic issues.
Health Testing & Preventive Care:Responsible breeders and owners should utilize both DNA tests for conditions like Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and physical exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist. Breeders can visit the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) website to discover which specific eye diseases to test for based on their dog's breed.
Medication Toxicities:Giving a dog a massive, accidental mega-dose of ivermectin—such as using farm store variants instead of proper heartworm preventatives—can lead to temporary blindness.
33 min
May 2776 — 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 Bassets, Saint Bernards and Clumber Spaniels). If a young puppy suffers from entropion,getting their eyelids temporarily "tacked" is vital to break the cycle of squinting and prevent permanent corneal damage.
Breed Conformation:We discuss why sled dogs have almond-shaped eyes to protect against harsh snow, while brachycephalic breeds have large, round eyes for a more infant-like appearance.
The Secret of Tear Ducts:Did you know that tears actually drain into the nose? We explain how vets easily test for blocked tear ducts using glowing fluorescein dye.
Dry Eye & The Tear Film:A dog's tear film consists of a water layer, a mucus layer, and an oil layer. We issue a major warning: if your dog develops "cherry eye,"never allow the third eyelid gland to be surgically removed, as it produces the crucial watery layer of the tears and removing it will cause permanent dry eye later in life.
Eyelid Tumors and Mites:Discover why most eyelid margin tumors in older dogs are benign, whereas cats face a higher risk of cancer. Plus, we share a mind-blowing fact aboutDemodex mitesliving in the eyelid margins of dogs—and humans!
Neonatal Ophthalmia:A critical alert for dog breeders. If an infection develops behind a young puppy's closed eyelids before they naturally open,it is a genuine medical emergency. The eyelids must be opened immediately to prevent the puppy from going completely blind.
At-Home Care Tips: If your dog has a mild garden-variety eye discharge, you can try washing it with a little baby shampoo, using artificial tears, and applying a warm compress before your vet appointment. However, always get a proper diagnosis from a veterinarian before administering antibiotics or steroids.
35 min
May 2075 — 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 cloudiness, redness or brown pigment means you need to get to the vet yesterday.
Pigmentary Keratitis (PK):Why flat-faced cuties with protruding eyes (we're looking at you, Pugs and Frenchies!) are so prone to this dark pigmentation and how to manage it.
Corneal Ulcers:The super painful reality of grass seeds, bush scratches and even car airbag injuries (PSA: Please keep your dog out of the front seat!).
The Golden Rule of Eye Meds:Why you mustneveruse a leftover steroid eye drop on your dog without a vet checking for an ulcer first.
Vet Tests Demystified:What to expect at the clinic, including why that agonizingly long 60-second Schirmer tear test always has to be the very first step.
Pro-Tips for Meds:Marty’s expert advice for getting eye drops into a squirmy dog—hint: back them into a corner and straddle them.
Doggy Contact Lenses?Yes, you heard that right! Learn how vets use human soft contact lenses as a "bandage" to save your dog's vision while an ulcer heals.
A quick reminder: If your dog's eye is slammed shut, watering or looks "steamy" (like a bathroom mirror after a hot shower), treat it as an emergency and get to a vet or ophthalmologist immediately!
Sponsor Shoutouts: Check out Dogg!t to help find responsibly bred, health-verified puppies. Also, don't forget to head over to martyandlaurashow.com/kids-corner for our free weekly downloads and the fun Color Me Pets coloring packs!
35 min

About The Marty & Laura Show

From the publisher's feed

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.