The Marty & Laura Show

Spring Gardening Hazards Your Pets Will Definitely FindSpring 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 EpisodeThe 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 generally low-risk for dogs, but insecticides can affect the nervous system immediately. Always keep product packaging — the label often has an 800 number that connects you to free poison control support.Marty makes a strong case for keeping Clevor on hand if you have a dog that eats everything. One eye drop, three minutes, done — no risky hydrogen peroxide needed.And yes, skunk season is here. The de-skunking formula (peroxide + baking soda + dish soap) only works if you apply it to a dry dog first. Don't skip that step.Key TakeawaysBookmark aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plantsSave the ASPCA Poison Control number with a credit card nearbyStock your garage: Clevor, baking soda, peroxide, dish soapBaby wildlife? Leave it. Put it back. Move on.Brought to you by Veterinary Village — enhancing the quality of animal and human lives throughout Wisconsin and Dogg!t - find your new puppy now!The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

When You Can't Get Into the Vet: Safe Home Remedies for Dogs — and What to Never TryGetting 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 fast.Never use these:Xylitol in any form, ibuprofen, Tylenol (especially in cats), Sudafed and decongestants, and any prescription medication without veterinary guidanceSafe for kennel cough:Robitussin DM (guaifenesin + dextromethorphan) and saline nasal spray for congested brachycephalic breedsSafe for allergies and skin:Benadryl, Claritin (loratadine), Dawn dish soap, hydrocortisone cream, lidocaine gel, and diaper rash ointment for sore hindquartersSafe for GI upset:Famotidine (Pepcid), meclizine (Bonine) for nausea and vestibular syndrome, simethicone (Gas-X) for bloat prevention, Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate with caveats, and canned spinach to help pass small sharp objectsSafe for wounds:Saran wrap, socks, duct-taped bandaging, and Epsom salt soaks for foxtails in the feetFoxtail warning:Feet are manageable at home — but foxtails in the nose, ears, or eyes need same-day veterinary care, and in the lungs they are a life-threatening emergencyBottom line: These are stopgap measures, not substitutes for veterinary care. Use them to buy time, keep notes on what you tried and always be kind to your veterinary team — they're doing their very best.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

Pancreatitis in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and TreatmentPancreatitis 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 severe cases can be fatalHow it's diagnosed— CBC, chemistry panel, and the more accurate cPLI test (80–90% accurate), plus why x-rays won't help but ultrasound canTreatment— why this is a hospitalization situation: IV fluids, nothing by mouth for 72+ hours, pain management, anti-nausea medication, and supportive careBreeds at higher risk— miniature schnauzers, dachshunds, miniature poodles, Cavaliers, Cocker Spaniels, and othersChronic pancreatitis and diabetes— how repeated flare-ups can scar the pancreas and eventually lead to Type 1-equivalent diabetes requiring twice-daily insulin injectionsInsulinoma— the rare pancreatic tumor that causes blood sugar to crash and can trigger seizures, and what treatment looks likeExocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)— most common in young German Shepherds, the TLI blood test to ask for, and how it's managed with pancreatic enzyme supplementsKey takeaway: High-fat meals are a well-known trigger, but pancreatitis can strike without an obvious cause — especially in middle-aged, overweight females of susceptible breeds. If your dog is vomiting and seems painful, don't wait. This is not a condition that resolves on its own.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

Neck Lumps, Ear Hematomas & “Happy Tail”: What That Sudden Swelling Might MeanYou 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 shouldn’t be there” checklist—what’s benign, what’s serious and what needs a same-day call to your veterinarian.You’ll learn:Common culprits behind jaw/neck lumps:abscesses,hematomas, andsalivary cysts—often after chewing sticks or bonesWhen swelling is an emergency:fever + not eating/drinking= get seen fastWhy recurrent abscesses may mean aforeign bodyis still hiding (hello, plant material)Foxtails and other “mean seeds”: where they lodge, why they’re risky, and how tools like theOutFoxed hoodcan helpHow enlargedlymph nodescan be reactive…or signal something systemic likelymphomaPuppy strangles (juvenile cellulitis):what it looks like and why early treatment mattersEar hematomas: what causes “cauliflower ear,” treatment options and why dogs may never have a totally “normal” ear again“Happy tail/crate tail” injuries: why they’re such a bloody mess and how vets try to manage themPro tips mentioned: keep a dedicated pet thermometer at home, and don’t panic—get the swelling checked and let diagnostics guide the next step.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

How Much Does a Well-Bred Puppy Really Cost? Breaking Down Smart Puppy BuyingWhat 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.Dr. Marty outlines the three major categories of pre-breeding health screening: genetic (DNA) testing, comprehensive veterinary exams, and phenotype testing such as OFA hips, elbows, cardiac and eye clearances. These tests—along with brucellosis screening, infectious disease panels, and breed-specific evaluations—can easily total thousands of dollars before breeding even begins.From there, the costs stack up: progesterone timing, stud fees, shipped semen, artificial insemination, pregnancy confirmation, C-sections, puppy care, microchipping, vaccinations, and health certificates. And that’s assuming everything goes right.Laura and Marty also discuss the long-term value of purpose-bred dogs: predictable temperament, early socialization, breeder support for the life of the dog, and often fewer behavioral surprises.A puppy isn’t a toaster—it’s a 10–15 year commitment. This episode helps you make that investment wisely.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

Health-Tested Parents Increase the Odds of Healthy PuppiesIn 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 should provide — including contracts and documentationWhy a “cheap” puppy can cost far more in the long runBottom line:Health-tested parents don’t guarantee perfection — but they significantly increase the likelihood of a healthy puppy. Educated decisions stack the deck in your favor.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

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 NotesIntroducing a new Kids’ Corner initiative, including downloadable coloring pagesWhat veterinarians really do—and why it’s one of the most versatile careers in animal scienceHow kids (and teens) can start preparing now for veterinary school and STEM careersScholarships, education paths and the real return on investment in veterinary medicineThe importance of people skills, business knowledge and self-determination in vet careersWhy veterinary medicine remains a high-demand, future-proof professionPerfect for parents, kids, breeders, and anyone curious about animal careers, this episode blends education, encouragement, and plenty of heart. 🐾The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

Arctic Blast Survival: Safety Tips for Dogs, Cats, and LivestockWhen 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 the Midwest tundra or the southern states facing unexpected freezes, this conversation covers how to protect pets, prevent frostbite, maintain hydration and plan ahead when temperatures plunge.Key Topics CoveredWhy extreme cold is dangerous—even for double-coated breedsWhen dogs need coats, booties or heated gearHow freezing temperatures affect paws, digestion and behaviorSafe options for outdoor cats and livestock in subzero weatherHeated water bowls, shelters and DIY emergency solutionsWhat to do when power grids fail during winter stormsSimple steps to keep pets safe when letting them outsideTakeawayCold weather isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be life-threatening. Planning ahead, limiting exposure, ensuring access to unfrozen water, and keeping pets close can make all the difference. Stay warm, stay prepared and keep your animals safe through winter’s worst.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

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 just as important as bloodworkThe danger of restricting water without a full veterinary workupHow leptospirosis affects dogs (and people) and why it’s now considered a core vaccineEarly kidney disease, protein loss, and why prescription kidney diets matterPractical management tips for “water-obsessed” dogs—after medical causes are ruled outA must-listen for dog owners dealing with excessive drinking, chronic kidney concerns, or confusing diagnostic results—and for anyone who wants to better advocate for their dog’s health at the vet.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

When You Hear Hoofbeats… Think Zebras: Rare Dog & Cat DiagnosesMarty 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 episodeCat “zebras” (unusual but real)Saddle thrombus in cats(often tied to underlying heart disease): sudden rear-leg paralysis/pain, cold paws, absent pulses—an emergency scenario.Rodent ulcer(part of the eosinophilic granuloma complex): a distinctive upper-lip ulcer/swelling linked to immune/allergic processes; often responds to anti-inflammatory treatment.Dog “zebras” and misdiagnosis look-alikesToxoplasmosis/Neospora-like neurologic syndrome in puppies: can mimic birth trauma/oxygen deprivation; may respond dramatically to appropriate antibiotics (as in Laura’s story).FCE (fibrocartilaginous embolism): sudden paralysis (often rear legs) that can resemble a slipped disc; recovery often depends on intensive nursing/rehab support.Coonhound paralysis: immune-mediated paralysis often followingraccoon bite/scratch; may progress from rear legs forward; requires dedicated supportive care over weeks.Head, mouth, and eye conditions owners notice fastMasticatory muscle myositis (MMM): painful jaw, difficulty opening mouth; can lead to muscle wasting and a “sunken” head appearance; a specific blood test exists (2M test).Retrobulbar abscess: often from chewing sticks/bones—painful swelling behind the eye causing bulging.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

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—whether the stress is occasional (holiday visitors, grooming, thunderstorms) or constant (dogs who live under a “black cloud”).This is a must-listen for anyone dealing with separation anxiety, vet visit meltdowns, noise sensitivity, or a dog who simply isn’t comfortable in their own skin.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

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/licking (action)Why dogs lick their feet — and why it often gets worse over timeWhatrust-colored saliva stainingreally means“Closet lickers”: why you may not see the behavior happeningEnvironmental allergies vs.food allergies/sensitivitiesWhy winter is often the best time to diagnose food allergiesHow to do a true12-week elimination diet(and what can ruin it)Why switching foods randomly can make diagnosis harderPrescription allergy options includingApoquel, Zenrelia, and CytopointA surprising crossover:Demodex mites in people and dogs✅ Key TakeawayDogs don’t lick their feet for fun — they lick because they’re uncomfortable. Early veterinary guidance and careful tracking of foods and treats can save you months of frustration and help your dog get relief faster.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

Kitty Litter Box 101: The Real Reason Cats “Miss” (and How to Fix It)The Marty and Laura Show with Dr. Marty Greer + Laura ReevesIf 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 owner needs to know about litter box success: the right litter, the right box, the right location… and when a “behavior problem” is actually a medical emergency.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

Too LITTLE or Too MUCH: Addison’s vs. Cushing’s Disease in DogsIn 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 genetics and breeding, emphasizing that even dogs from excellent breeding programs can develop these conditions. With real-world examples, including Laura’s own dogs, the episode highlights symptoms to watch for, diagnostic challenges, treatment options, long-term prognosis, and why careful veterinary monitoring is essential.The discussion expands into related conditions like diabetes and kidney disease, underscoring an important message: similar symptoms can point to very different underlying problems, and accurate diagnosis matters.5 Key Takeaways1. Addison’s and Cushing’s Are Opposites — But Equally SeriousAddison’s disease occurs when the adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones, often causing sudden, severe illness. Cushing’s disease is caused by excess cortisol and develops slowly over months or even years. Despite affecting the same body system, they look and behave very differently.2. You Can’t Always “Breed Away” From These DiseasesWhile some breeds (like Poodles and Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers) show higher incidence, there is no universal genetic test for Addison’s or Cushing’s. Even carefully bred dogs from responsible programs can develop them, making transparency and education more important than blame.3. Symptoms Can Be Subtle — Until They Aren’tAddison’s often presents as waxing-and-waning illness, GI upset, lethargy, or sudden collapse. Cushing’s is more insidious, with signs like excessive drinking and urination, pot-bellied appearance, and gradual decline. Early signs are easy to miss or mistake for aging or other diseases.4. Diagnosis and Management Are Tricky and OngoingTesting for both conditions can be complex and sometimes inconclusive. Management requires lifelong medication, frequent blood work, and close veterinary supervision. While both diseases are treatable, they demand commitment from owners and strong communication with the veterinary team.5. PU/PD Isn’t Just One DiseaseExcessive drinking and urination (PU/PD) can signal many different conditions, including diabetes, kidney disease, infections, or adrenal disorders. Similar symptoms don’t mean the same diagnosis — which is why thorough diagnostics are critical to getting treatment right.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

Enjoying a Winter Wonderland with Your PetMarty 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 is right at that freezing slushy temperature. Because if it's colder, they actually do better than if it's slushy. Now, once it gets about 10 below zero, the dogs try to stand on two feet, and dogs cannot walk on two legs very well. So that gets a little tricky. The trips outside are pretty short, and a lot of dogs decide to use the indoor bathroom instead of the outdoor bathroom. So that becomes a a problem. “But the slushy temperatures are risky because if they lay in the snow or they spend too much time in the snow, their feet or their underparts, they tend to frostbite at that slushy temperature.”“Speaking of ice,” Laura says, “there's a couple things with ice and super cold temperatures in our dogs particularly, and that’s snowballs in their feet. The first time I encountered this and my dog just kind of like flopped down on the ground and wouldn't walk. And I'm like, oh my God, what's wrong with him?” Marty recommends trimming between the dog’s pads to help eliminate issues with snowballs. She also has recommendations for pet safe deicer, so be sure to listen in for that tip of the day.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

STINKY! Holiday Grooming Prevents an Embarrassing ProblemMarty 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 should normally empty when the dog or cat passes a stool and so a firm stool will cause them to empty and just that little bit of material will come out,” Marty said.Routine exercise, additional fiber in the dog’s diet and regular expression of the glands at home, at the vet or at the groomer will keep your dog healthy and comfortable while preventing noxious fumes and embarrassing behavior!The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

Five Tips for Fun, Safe Holidays with PetsMarty 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.Tip 3 … The microwave is a GREAT food locker to keep the four-legged family out of the food when you turn your back.Tip 4 … Save a few bucks on fun pet food toppers by looking for “windfall” apples for homemade applesauce, inquiring with your grocery store for bruised produce or checking out online delivery resources like Imperfect Foods.Tip 5 … Make a batch of *dog* cookies with your holiday baking.Ingredients2 cups whole wheat flour (regular white flour will work as well) 1 cup canned pureed pumpkin (don’t use pumpkin pie filling, as it includes additional sugar, fats, and spices like cinnamon that are dangerous to your dog)1/2 cup peanut butter (make sure it doesn’t contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol)DirectionsPreheat your oven to 375°F.Add the pumpkin and peanut butter to a large mixing bowl and stir to combine.Stir in the flour until the mixture creates a dough.Roll out the dough about ½ inch thick on a lightly floured surface.Cut out fall shapes using a small cookie cutter or knife. Bonus points if you use a fall-themed cookie cutter in a pumpkin shape. Place the treats about half an inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.Bake for 12 minutes.Let cool completely before giving to your dog to enjoy.Bone-Appetit!Recipe inspired by the American Kennel Club. This article contains recipe information that is considered suitable for pets. However, not all pets can tolerate different foods — it depends on their age, health history, and health conditions. It is important to consult with your veterinarian before feeding your pet any new foods or offering your pet any of the ingredients contained in this recipe.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

Shout Out to Our Heroes: Responsible Pet OwnersMarty 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 resources to keep beloved pets with the people who love them, no matter the circumstances. Together, we can ensure that financial hardship never means losing a furry family member.”“Responsible pet owners means feeding our pets, taking our pets and doing preventative (veterinary) work, training even if you're doing trick. Our responsible pet owners are working with their pets every day some little bit, right? Maybe you've taught your pet to retrieve the slipper. Maybe you've taught your cat to retrieve a ball. Who knows?“Our responsible pet owners are doing great work socializing their pets so that if they come visit you at the clinic, they're not terrified because they've been other places and seen things and done stuff. You can teach them some basic skills. You can teach them to have their mouth looked at, you can teach them to have their ears touched and their toenails touched.”The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

Giving Thanks: Science Helps Pets Live Longer, HealthierMarty 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 us is going to be fascinating to see where this takes us,” Marty said. “There's so much that has the potential to happen here, and it may not all be good, but a lot of it really is.”Canine genome sequencing gave us genetic testing which has helped dog breeders select for healthier animals in hundreds of diseases. The BOAS testing recently developed in the UK is enabling veterinarians to test brachycephalic dogs’ ability to breath, which again allows dog breeders to select for healthy dogs in their matings.Tap in to catch up on more sciency conversation from Marty and Laura.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.

Giving Thanks for Our VeterinariansMarty 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 veterinary clinic is the CSR, the customer service representative, the person that answers the phone, because they're in the squeeze. They're in the squeeze between you as the client calling with a crisis and needing help and the veterinary staff that's already booked full.“It’s 10 pounds of you know what in a 5 pound bag. And it becomes really a challenge for that receptionist to try and balance the needs of the client versus what the rest of the staff needs are so that we can still provide the quality of care that you want. Because getting you through the door isn't going to help you if the quality of care isn't there.”This week’s giving opportunity is Not One More Vet which supports veterinarians and staff struggling with mental health crises.The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.