This episode is sponsored in part by Humane Network and Doobert.com.

A few notes played on a toy piano by his showstopping cat Ricky, changed Steve Dale’s understanding of cat behaviour, forever. Steve Dale began to “clicker train” Ricky the Devon Rex and the two became an inseparable duo. They continued to work together and began dispelling myths about what cats can be through public appearances and media spots.

Steve discusses Ricky’s diagnosis of feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and shares the legacy he created for Ricky by establishing the Ricky Fund for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Research. Stacy and Steve chat about Trap Neuter Vaccinate Return (TNVR) for community cats and benefits to the emotional and physical health of Fear Free™ practices.

The Ricky Fund was established through Winn Feline Foundation, now Everycat.org and has raised over $200,000 for HCM research.

Research from the Ricky Fund for HCM Research has produced a simple cheek-swab test to determine genetic predisposition for HCM and has been vital in understanding this disease.

Steve recommends learning more by visiting fearfreehappyhomes.com, stevedale.tv, or following him on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Linked In and Twitter.

*A brief note from the production team: this episode features a fantastic interview, lots of interesting information...and unfortunately, some slightly dodgy audio quality. Despite the audio glitch, we decided to share it because we found the content both fun and incredibly valuable. We hope you do as well.