Unlucky in love but lucky with dogs, Susan Hartzler talks openly about her life in “I’m Not Single, I Have A Dog: Dating Tales from the Bark Side.” She explains that she’s fine and content today and accepting that she may from now on only have partners with four legs. And why in many ways, that is a good thing. 

Hartzler also talks about her book “The Peace Puppy: A Memoir of Caregiving and Canine Solace,” about how dogs can in some ways guide or at least take some stress of caregivers. And as dogs age, we become their caregivers.

Steve offers the hot ‘n trendy dog breeds according to American Kennel Club numbers, and also the top cat breeds from the Cat Fanciers’ Association.

Legendary Dr. Sheldon Rubin has been a guest on WGN radio dating back to Wally Phillips, when he was among the first veterinarians to talk regularly about pets in the media. Dr. Rubin is passionate about informing people of the dangers of heartworm disease which is nearly always preventable. He also recalls odd animals he’s dealt with, including a forlorn kinkajou. And how Anti-Cruelty has saved countless animals because of their open-admission policy, which only one other Chicago facility has.

The trendiest pet names are linked to Wicked.

With over 300 million views on his Simon the Cat’s YouTube page, and several books published, Simon Tofield explains the origin of Simon and why he think his animated cat became an international sensation. With countless interviews under his belt this is the first time he explains why he feels he is so innately in touch with cat behavior.  His latest book is Simon’s Cat vs. The World. 

Vetique is indeed a unique Chicago veterinary practice, which Dr. Jessica Trice is a co-owner. She explains how her practice is all about dealing with fear, anxiety and stress of humans as well as their pets. They even serve wine to support relaxing (for people) and offer treats to people and to pets. Also, they make special efforts to accommodate cats.

Steve reveals the most popular and trendy dog breeds.

Pretty much everything we know about cats was once funded by the non-profit – EveryCat Health Foundation. Jackie Ott Jaakola, Executive Director, explains further and how recently treatments have been found for feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) and feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (the most common heart disease in cats). In fact, anyone can attend virtually or in person, Health Breakthroughs for EveryCat: Focusing on Future Therapies for Feline Heart Disease and Beyond at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, April 26-27,

Susan Burrows, Program Coordinator of Rainbow Animal Assisted Therapy, discusses the largest organization of its kind in the Chicago area, interacting with nearly 40,000 individuals each year. She explains what these dogs do, and how they change lives (sometimes even save lives). In fact, there’s a need for more dogs, and Susan explains how your dog may become accepted into a program.

Steve says, enrichment is vital for all pets, including senior pets.

Oh rats! It’s a real dog sport, and now available in Evanston from City Sniffers. Megan Renner is a Certified Canine Sports Training Professional and Certified Canine Training & Behavior Specialist. Currently she is a judge for Happy Ratters and Rat Games. What the heck is that all about?

Who will win the Windy City Sweets cookie contest, which benefits Anti Cruelty? Anti Cruelty President Darlene Duggan offers her odds as to whether Steve Dale or WGN-TV’s Paul Lisnek will crumble and become Chicago’s biggest fool on April 1. Also, why are animals being relinquished to animal shelters in 2025? And how Anti Cruelty’s free behavior hotline plays a significant role to prevent pets to be given up. Also, an exciting podcast announcement from Anti Cruelty.

The top dog names of 2025.

Funny lady JoAnne Worley from TV’s Laugh In and countless TV shows and stage work also happens to be President of Actors and Others for Animals. She talks about the mission and work of the non-profit, including a continued focus on spay/neuter and supporting the wildfire’s animal victims. The big question? Will she gift Steve Dale and WGN listeners with her iconic laugh?

Certified dog trainer Kathy Callahan offers unexpected advice to new puppy parents. She ought to know as she has had countless dozens of puppies in her home as a foster mom, and also is the author of Welcoming Your Puppy from Planet Dog: How to Go Beyond Training and Raise Your Best Friend.

WGN Radio’s pet expert and host of Steve Dale’s Pet World and Steve Dale’s Other World joins Wendy Snyder, in for John Landecker, to discuss what you can do if your dog will not stop eating its own waste.

Dr. Sally Haddock, Board President of the North American Veterinary Community discusses the massive continuing education available to veterinarians and how this all trickles down to pet parents. Discussed is how intense the human animal bond is today, compared to how it was years ago. Though affording veterinary medicine is more challenging than ever, which is also discussed. 

Arwinder Kaur, author of Living While Human talks about her award-winning book which describes what’s happening in real time to our environment. She also describes how her dog has detected cancer in one of her friends and has also learned to eliminate in her stand-up shower.

Also, information on upcoming symposium on heart disease in cats.

He admits he has a problem. Dr. Matthew McGlasson says, “I’m obsessed with cats.” As a result he’s authored How to Rate a Cat. Discussed are serious misconceptions many have about cats, topics such as declaw and why he’s opposed, and more. 

A secret way to communicate with your cat – blink.

They are the underdogs of veterinary medicine, and at the same time the backbone of the profession – they are veterinary technicians. A conversation with Beckie Mossor, president of the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America. Also, she a founder of the non-profit Veterinary Industry Giving Tree.

Drew Lynch is arguably one of the hottest stand-up comedians around. America’s Got Talent launched his career, and so did his Vizsla. He explains the difference his dog, who was a self-trained service dog, made to change his life. 

Results of a new study demonstrate that seniors who walk their dogs are less likely to be a fall risk.