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 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 Covered

1. Why extreme cold is dangerous—even for double-coated breeds
2. When dogs need coats, booties or heated gear
3. How freezing temperatures affect paws, digestion and behavior
4. Safe options for outdoor cats and livestock in subzero weather
5. Heated water bowls, shelters and DIY emergency solutions
6. What to do when power grids fail during winter storms
7. Simple steps to keep pets safe when letting them outside

Takeaway

Cold 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.

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:

1. Common causes of excessive thirst in dogs: kidney disease, diabetes, Cushing’s
2. Less common (but serious) causes including lepto, hypercalcemia, Addison’s, and psychogenic polydipsia
3. Why urine testing is just as important as bloodwork
4. The danger of restricting water without a full veterinary workup
5. How leptospirosis affects dogs (and people) and why it’s now considered a core vaccine
6. Early kidney disease, protein loss, and why prescription kidney diets matter
7. Practical management tips for “water-obsessed” dogs—after medical causes are ruled out

A 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.

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.