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.

1. Saddle thrombus in cats(often tied to underlying heart disease): sudden rear-leg paralysis/pain, cold paws, absent pulses—an emergency scenario.
2. 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.

1. Toxoplasmosis/Neospora-like neurologic syndrome in puppies: can mimic birth trauma/oxygen deprivation; may respond dramatically to appropriate antibiotics (as in Laura’s story).
2. FCE (fibrocartilaginous embolism): sudden paralysis (often rear legs) that can resemble a slipped disc; recovery often depends on intensive nursing/rehab support.
3. Coonhound paralysis: immune-mediated paralysis often followingraccoon bite/scratch; may progress from rear legs forward; requires dedicated supportive care over weeks.

1. Masticatory 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).
2. 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.

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.

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.

1. The difference betweenitch (sensation)andscratching/licking (action)
2. Why dogs lick their feet — and why it often gets worse over time
3. Whatrust-colored saliva stainingreally means
4. “Closet lickers”: why you may not see the behavior happening
5. Environmental allergies vs.food allergies/sensitivities
6. Why winter is often the best time to diagnose food allergies
7. How to do a true12-week elimination diet(and what can ruin it)
8. Why switching foods randomly can make diagnosis harder
9. Prescription allergy options includingApoquel, Zenrelia, and Cytopoint
10. A surprising crossover:Demodex mites in people and dogs

The Marty & Laura Show is produced by Pure Dog Talk Inc., with sound design and editing by Premium Audio Services.