Boarded Surgeon Dr. Aaron Jackson of Midwest Veterinary Surgical Services on dealing with the cost issue for non-vital surgeries, and that there may be other options instead of the knife to dispel myths regarding anesthesia. Dr. Jackson is so prolific that countless Chicago-area families have met him. 

Joe Roetheli calls dental disease in dogs an “epidemic.” The result of dental disease is bacteria coursing through the body, potentially causing other issues, not to mention painful gums, tooth loss, and more. Roetheli created Greenies, and now Yummy Combs.

‘Tis the season for more coyote sightings – but that’s nothing to worry about as long as your dog is not left unsupervised in the backyard. 

 A “sit-down” discussion about Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) with the newly named Executive Director, Sue Cappello. Discussed are the realities and challenges of running any city’s municipal animal shelter, as well as why so many people are currently relinquishing animals. CACC is always seeking new volunteers. And there are various other new programs which Cappello discusses. 

Steve talks about the passing of his friend, the great primatologist Dr. Birute Galdikas. Her final interview aired on WGN with Steve.

Certified Animal Behavior Consultant and dog trainer Mikkel Becker has a fascinating take on shock collar use in dogs compared to how people with psychiatric issues were once routinely treated similarly with shock therapy. She offers personal anecdotes and also the best solution for desperate dog parents as an alternative to using shock. Becker, who is also a co-founder of Fear Free, discusses a new initiative to lower the costs of veterinary medicine, called Help A Pet. 

Veterinary technician Kara Burns announces a fund she’s launching to support studies for improved treatment for diabetic cats and other endocrine issues with the EveryCat Health Foundation. The fund is named for one her beloved cats, named O’Malley, and is the center EveryCat Springing into Action Campaign.  

Burns also offers details about the upcoming April 11-12 Symposium at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine – which you can attend virtually or in person. Register HERE for Heath Breakthroughs for EveryCat: Healthy Aging.

Dr. Rustin Moore Dean of the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine on his most recent book, Unlocking the Bond: The Power and Paradox of Human-Animal Interactions. He explains what people mean by this, “I rescued the dog but the dog actually rescued me.” Also discussed is the bond we have with horses. Loneliness – according to our government – is an epidemic. Can pets be a prescription? He answers but adds more on that is coming in his next book. Turns out pets might be the best motivator there is to support our health. 

Steve Dale suggests the is never a reason to use a shock collar as a “last resort.” He offers a better idea.

Dr. Sara Ruane, Associate Curator of Herpetology, Director of Core Laboratories on their reptile exhibit at the Field Museum called Reptiles Alive! And many are indeed alive! You can enjoy seeing everything from a rare iguana to a crocodile. And there is tackling of the forever question, “Are birds reptiles?”. Dr. Ruane also offers advice on what reptiles might make for the best pets. 

Steve Weaver, Senior Director of Community Impact at Anti Cruelty, talks about the free pet loss support group offered by the shelter which meets via Zoom. Totally, this support group must help – as people all over the world participate in this. You can participate if you are inclined. Learn more Here.

What to do with your dog who might be going stir crazy due to inclement weather.

Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Nicholas Dodman is the author of several best-selling dog/cat behavior books and  co-founder of the Center for Canine Behavior Studies. And a great part of the focus of this organization is about creating citizen science projects and revealing the validated results. Also, Be Bite Smart which is all about dog bite prevention, and the week to enhance awareness is April 13 to 19. Joining the Center is free and you receive a free quarterly newsletter. Dr. Dodman explains in detail what Be Bite Smart is all about. We also discuss my idea to Ask the Dog, which is what my most recent book as Dr. Dodman says, I am “cross-pollinating” with the Center for Canine Behavior Studies.

The GOAT of training and behavior is Dr. Patricia McConnell, and she has an all new and very different book out, a novel called Away to Me. This is a switch compared to her previous non-fiction top-selling and renowned dog training and behavior books, and she explains why she authored a fiction murder mystery. 

When cats feel pain (including from declaw) it adversely impacts their quality of life, no matter what anyone says. 

The one and only Victoria Stilwell from It’s Me or the Dog and positively.com offers a new way to think about reactive dogs. And what to never think about (using a shock collar, as just one example).  She explains how often we not-so-intentionally make matters worse by pulling the dog in opposite direction. Does a shock collar ever work as a last resort? And how can you help reactive dogs? Stilwell explains a new approach. Also, with upcoming Dog Bite Prevention Week, we discuss preventing dog bites and why to Ask the Dog, which is my most recent book is all about. 

The not so romantic frog croaking story.

Why dogs, cats and other animals get the zoomies.

Mags Roemer a Co-founder and Young Professional Board Co-Chair of Paws for Patrick explains in detail what this unique non-profit does to support mental health of young people nationally through the comfort and connection of animals. Yes, dogs can serve as support and even suicide prevention. 

Dog trainer Julie Oskerka, founder of a Sound Beginning Program and Founder Positive Solutions for a Sound Beginning, on dog training methods and offer her strong viewpoint and concerns about board and train. On March 1, a benefit for DuPage County Animal Services, 2255 Manchester Rd, Steve presents A New Thought on Preventing Dog Bites: ASK THE DOG! regarding the uptick of dog bites across the country, and how to better prevent and what the repercussions are., $40 per person includes a copy of Ask the Dog. Registration (and further details) HERE. 

No cats allowed here.

The  Lincoln State Cat Club Cat Show is at the Kane County Fairgrounds, 25 S Randall Road, St. Charles, Feb. 21 -22. Show President Jeremy Basterash explains what cat shows are about. On Feb. 21st, Steve Dale will talk from 1 to 2:15 p.m, about a new Secure feline pheromone product and offer updates on cat health, specifically heart disease and FIP. 

Laura Flamion is the Administrator at DuPage County Animal Control. This facility is fairly new but doesn’t get much well-deserved press for the terrific job they are doing at a difficult time for all municipal shelters. On March 1, a benefit for DuPage County Animal Services,2255 Manchester Rd, Steve presents A New Thought on Preventing Dog Bites: ASK THE DOG! regarding the uptick of dog bites across the country, and how to better prevent and what the repercussions are., $40 per person includes a copy of Ask the Dog. Registration (and further details) HERE. 

No more dolphin shows in Mexico