Steve Dale's Pet World

Wayne Pacelle, founder and CEO of Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy, shares updates on the closure of Ridglan Farms near Madison, Wisconsin, where more than 1,000 beagles have been rescued. He discusses the conditions the dogs faced, why animal testing is becoming obsolete, and the effort to find alternatives while reducing costs.

Pacelle also talks about horses being removed from public lands, being sold by the federal government and, in some cases, finding their way into the slaughter pipeline.

And there’s growing concern that the Supporting America’s Ranchers presidential executive order could reduce protections for gray wolves and endangered Mexican wolves. While it is an attempt to appease ranchers and farmers, wolves are needed for the ecosystem.

Steve also shares how a specific cat food could help with seasonal allergies.

Andrea Dorn, president of the Cat Writer’s Association, joins Steve Dale to explain the organization’s mission and preview its upcoming awards conference and gala, taking place November 6-7 near Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. Steve will be attending to share the EveryCat Health Foundation and the latest developments in cat health. Dorn says she shares secrets with her cats, but will she share them?

Later, legendary comedian JoAnne Worley, best known for Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, joins Steve to discuss her longtime leadership role as president of Actors and Others for Animals. Worley explains how the organization supports spay and neuter programs, assists pet owners facing financial hardship, and helps ensure more animals receive the care they need.

According to guidelines published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, there is never a reason to routinely scruff cats.

Janis Bradley helped pioneer research showing that a dog’s breed is not a predictor of aggression. In this conversation, she explains why many behaviors we label as “aggressive” are often better understood as defensive responses. Bradley discusses the real motivations behind dog bites, and the insights from her latest book, Look Closer: Rethinking Dog Warning Signals. She also explains why growling is an important form of communication and why suppressing those signals can make interactions with dogs less safe, not more.

New science on how dogs and cats are natural stress buffers.

Susan Hartzler, author of Teaming Up with Therapy Dogs: Skills to Build Healing Partnerships, shares the incredible impact therapy dogs have on people’s lives. Today, therapy dogs can be found in hospitals, schools, and care facilities, but it wasn’t that long ago that many organizations were hesitant to welcome them. Susan talks about the growing demand for therapy dog teams, shares heartwarming stories about the difference her own dogs have made, and explains how the animal-assisted therapy movement all started with one remarkable dog.

Might blood markers in dogs hold secrets to their aging, and even our own?

Mark Buchanon launched Grover & Pals, an ambitious non-profit organization to save dogs and cats in various countries where animal welfare resources are scarce. The task seems overwhelming, but the organization is making a difference. 

Sculptor Susan Bahari, founder and chair of the National Service Animals Monument, joins David Frei to discuss the effort to create a lasting tribute to service, therapy, military, law enforcement, and other working animals. Frei will also preview the upcoming Purple Poppy Awards, taking place Sept. 17 at the National Law Enforcement Museum in Washington, D.C.

Going into debt for pet care? It’s happening.

Dr. Valerie Fadok, a board-certified veterinary dermatologist and nationally recognized expert, clears up common myths about allergies in cats and dogs. She explains why food allergies are often overdiagnosed, reveals the most common cause of allergy symptoms in pets, and discusses how new treatments are improving care. As a member of the Human Animal Bond Association, she also explores how skin disease can impact the bond between pets and their owners and why effective treatment benefits both.

Still more news about feline infectious peritonitis (FIP).

Inez Rose, membership chairperson for Rainbow Animal Assisted Therapy, shares how the organization’s therapy dog teams make a difference throughout the Chicago area. With more than 100 programs serving hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, libraries, senior living communities, and other facilities, Rainbow’s volunteers provide comfort, companionship, and support to people of all ages. Rose recounts firsthand stories of lives changed and, in some cases, even saved through these meaningful interactions. She also explains why the demand for therapy dog teams continues to grow, what qualities make a good therapy dog, and the process for becoming a Rainbow volunteer team dedicated to helping others.

Diabetes in cats is rampant, and the EveryCat Health Foundation seeks to make a difference with its newly created O’Malley Fund. 

New American Veterinary Medical Association President Dr. Jennifer Quammen tackles some of the biggest issues facing pet owners and veterinary professionals today, including why veterinary care costs continue to rise and whether corporate ownership and Wall Street are reshaping the profession.

A former veterinary technician, Dr. Quammen also discusses how credentialed vet techs can be utilized more effectively and whether veterinary medicine could benefit from a mid-level practitioner role. She also shares an important warning about the growing threat of toxic algal blooms and what pet owners need to know to keep their animals safe.

Therapy dogs aren’t merely tail-wagging miracles; science demonstrates how they are effective at changing and even saving lives.

Michael Schneider combined his love of dogs and passion for flying to found the nonprofit Pilots to the Rescue 10 years ago. Since then, volunteer pilots have helped save more than 9,000 animals by transporting them across the country. The organization’s missions extend beyond cats and dogs, with pilots also helping relocate endangered wildlife, including sea turtles, giving countless animals a second chance at life.

PAWS Chicago has broken ground on its new Rescue Ranch in Hawthorn Woods. Celene Mielcarek, Chief Program Officer, discusses the vision for the ranch and its impact on animal rescue. She also highlights the PAWS Chicago diversion program at Chicago Animal Care & Control, which helps keep pets with their families by connecting owners with resources and support.

A new early diagnosis for chronic kidney disease in cats may come from a surprising place.

Lost dog found at sea – yes, at sea and returned to family.

Everyone at the Buddy Foundation in Arlington Heights is a volunteer—there is no paid staff. That means donations go directly toward caring for the homeless pets they serve. Louise Basgall, Buddy Foundation’s community events planner, joins Steve to discuss the organization’s work and upcoming events.

Steve also previews his presentation, “Why Are Dog Bites on the Rise?” taking place on August 15 at 1 p.m. at the Friendship Park Conservatory, 395 W. Algonquin Road in Des Plaines. The discussion will explore factors behind the increase in dog bites and what pet owners can do to help prevent them. Register HERE.

Later, Darlene Duggan, president of Anti-Cruelty, talks about the organization’s new Pet Resource Center in Roseland on Chicago’s South Side and its expanded focus on providing low-cost spay/neuter services. She also previews the Petterino’s Restaurant Dog Party on August 8, where Steve will serve as emcee and Anti-Cruelty will feature dogs available for adoption.

Housing crisis includes dogs too.

Beware – dogs are still dying in hot cars – needlessly.