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Steve Dale Pet Expert | Certified Animal Behavior Consultant | Public Speaker Book Steve About Steve Dale Steve Dale is a certified animal behavior specialist who has been a trusted voice in the world of pet health for over 20 years. You have likely heard him on the radio, seen him on TV, read him…
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Listen HERE to this WGN Radio recorded Mother’s Day interview with Dionne Warwick from Steve Dale’s Other World. She discusses her two favorite productions, her sons. One is a music producer and the other is both a singer and deep-sea diving instructor. Despite sounds issues with connectivity I aired and posted this because I won’t… The post A Final Conversation with Dionne Warwick appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Veterinary cardiologist Dr. Chris Brennan offers the 4-1-1 on heart disease in dogs and in cats, and the latest on new treatments HERE on Steve Dale’s Pet World, WGN Radio. Heart disease in dogs is different than in cats. Certain breeds are more likely to be predisposed, as Dr. Brennan explains. Dr. Brennan notes common signs (or… The post New Hope for Dogs and Cats with Heart Disease; Dog Trainer Zak George Takes Aim at the AKC appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
New World screwworm isn’t actually a worm. It’s the larval stage (maggot) of the fly Cochliomyia hominivorax. Unlike ordinary maggots that feed on dead tissue, screwworm larvae invade living tissue, burrowing deeper into even small wounds as they feed. Untreated infestations can cause severe tissue destruction, secondary infections, and even death. The parasite can infect… The post New World Screwworm Returns to the U.S.: What It Means for Dogs, Cats and Horses appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
The world’s oldest living land animal, a tortoise named Jonathan, extended his record to 194 years and was officially named a Guinness World Records Icon. The record-keeping organization said Jonathan, a Seychelles Giant Tortoise living on the island of St. Helena, was a full-grown adult of at least 50 years of age when he arrived… The post World’s Oldest Romeo Wears a Shell appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
A strain of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) linked to a devastating outbreak in Cyprus that killed thousands of cats may not be confined to that island in the eastern Mediterranean Sea after all. Researchers at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine have discovered evidence that a similar form of feline coronavirus has likely been present… The post New Science on Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
According to Global Vet Link,, roughly 35 percent of dog and cat owners are expected to hit the road with their pets on upcoming trips this summer. Whether those pets are equally enthusiastic about the vacation plans is another question altogether. No matter, this is an all-time number who plan to hit the road this… The post Millions of Pets Will Hit the Road This Summer: How to Keep Them Safe and Stress-Free appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
OG Anunoby helped the New York Knicks win the NBA Championship. He’s now paid it forward to find homes for five shelter cats called “OG’s Starting Five.” Even a 11-year old cat, named Damu, with medical concerns was adopted. The NBA superstar has officially partnered with industry and local organizations to help rescue shelter cats… The post OG, Oh My A ‘Starting Five’ Homes for Shelter Cats appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-California) has introduced the Keeping Pets and Families Together Act; Legislation that would establish a grant program within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help animal shelters microchip dogs and cats before they are adopted or transferred. The goal is simple: increase reunifications between lost pets and their families. “When… The post New Federal Bill Aims to Reunite More Lost Pets with Their Families appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Listen HERE to Steve Dale’s Pet World, WGN Radio to Dr. Leilani Alvarez, director of the Tina Santi Flaherty Rehabilitation & Fitness Service and leads the Integrative and Rehabilitative Medicine Department at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center in New York City. She happens to be one of only a select group of veterinarians worldwide board-certified… The post Canine Rehab Goes Mainstream: Dr. Leilani Alvarez on Exercise, Arthritis and Recovery for Dogs appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
For decades, the debate over New York City’s horse-drawn carriage industry has been fueled primarily by concerns for the horses and now the general public On June 17 Romanch Mahajan, an 18-year-old tourist visiting New York City from India with his family, died after a horse-drawn carriage horse was spooked and bolted in Central Park.… The post Should This Tragedy Finally Halt Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides? appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
If your pet has previously been fearful of fireworks, it’s a good bet your pet will be at least equally – even likely more fearful this coming July Fourth. Now is the time to begin dealing with the issue by implementing behavior modification (described below). All you need for this behavior modification is either YouTube,… The post Countdown For Fireworks Fear in Pets Begins Now appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
On my Sunday afternoon WGN Radio show I interview all sorts of folks Listen here with Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson on Steve Dale’s Other World, WGN Radio. Is it finally time to throw the towel in regarding the Chicago Bears coming to Chicago? Is it time for a Hail Mary from the City or State?… The post Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Chicago Mayoral Candidate Susana Mendoza appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
A Canoga Park, CA woman says her dog, Jamison, was shot and killed by an LAPD officer at her condominium complex Saturday night (june 13). Neighbors heard two women screaming and were concerned about domestic violence. It’s true, they were screaming but at the New York Knicks win. The dog’s owner is Marie Marseille, a… The post A Celebration Ends in Tragedy: Family Dog Shot Dead by Police appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
This bridesmaid stole the show at a wedding in Barcelona, Spain of an American couple. Evidence this dog is very much a part of their family! The post Bridesmaid of Another Type appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Journalist, Radio Hall of Famer, Emmy and Peabody Award winner Scott Simon, also CBS News Sunday Morning contributor Scott Simon joins the show to discuss his book, Ulysses S. Cat and Other Animals I Have Known. Simon shares heartfelt and humorous stories about the pets that became part of his family over the years, delivering the… The post Scott Simon on Pets He’s Known; Ice-Cream Social to Raise Money for Cat Health appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
John Manchester of Windy City Sweets and Virginia Rud of EveryCat Health Foundation join me HERE on Steve Dale’s Other World about Getting the Scoop on the Cat Health Ice Cream Social on June 16 at 7 p.m. at Windy City Sweets, 3308 N Broadway in Chicago (just north of Belmont Ave). John explains how it all began… The post EveryCat Health Foundation Ice-Cream Social appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
What sounds good isn’t always except for a quick PR/fundraising stunt. On June 5 at the U.S. Conference of Mayors in Long Beach, CA a resolution was passed to Support No-Kill Animal Shelters and Community-Wide Strategies to Save Dogs and Cats in U.S. Shelters forwarded by Best Friends Animal Society. Taken at face value –… The post Saving More Pets Requires More Than a Resolution appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
For years, dog owners have been bombarded with alarming headlines suggesting that most dogs suffer from significant behavioral problems, including aggression (reactivity), and separation anxiety. But a new study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior challenges those claims, arguing that previous estimates may have dramatically overstated the prevalence of serious behavior issues in dogs.… The post New Analysis Finds Dog Behavior Problems Less Common Than Previously Reported appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Have you heard about the screwworm outbreak in Southern United states? This is no joke. A parasite eradicated from the United States nearly six decades ago has returned, prompting an aggressive response from Federal and state animal health/veterinary officials. The New World screwworm is not actually a worm but the larval stage of a fly.… The post What The Screwworm Threat Is Really About appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
From the Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine, GO Raw LLC. Expands Voluntary Recall to Include One Lot of Steve’s Real Food Freeze-Dried Chicken Recipe Due to Low Thiamine (Vitamin B1) Levels. Here’s the info: Cottonwood Heights, Utah (June 8, 2026) Go Raw LLC is expanding its February 17, 2026 recall to include an… The post Voluntary Recall One Lot of Steve’s Real Food Freeze-Dried Chicken Recipe Due to Low Thiamine (Vitamin B1) Levels appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) pr chronic kidney insufficiency is one of the most common illnesses affecting older cats. Studies suggest that as many as 30 to 40 percent of senior cats develop some degree of kidney disease. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent CKD, cat owners can take steps to support kidney health,… The post Protecting Cats From Chronic Kidney Disease appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
I discuss my most recent book Ask the Dog on Smart Pet Talk. I explain what I think we’re doing wrong as we meet dogs we don’t know (putting out hands in dogs’ faces) and why that is wrong. Also, what it means to Ask the Dog, as in a sense, they are talking with… The post Ask the Dog: What We Do Wrong When Greeting Dogs appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
More than half of U.S. dogs and cats are overweight or obese—but the reasons go beyond table scraps and too many treats. On WGN Radio’s Steve Dale’s Pet World listen HERE as Dr. Ernie Ward, founder and president of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, says the issue is far more complex. Interestingly, this issue isn’t… The post Explanation for Overweight/Obese Pets Not What You Think, Dr. Ernie Ward on WGN appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Many dog owners assume that if a tick falls off their pet inside the house, the tick will quickly dry out and die. New research suggests that assumption may be wrong. A study published in March in the Journal of Vector Ecology found that at least some tick species commonly picked up by dogs can… The post Ticked Off? New Study Suggests Ticks Can Live Inside Our Homes appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Listen HERE to this special edition of WGN radio’s Booth 46 celebrating 25 years of Petterino’s . The visionary to transformed this restaurant and led it through the pandemic as others surrounding Petterino’s shuttered, is Mr. Al Friedman, sometimes called the Mayor of River North for all he’s done not only in that community to… The post Celebrating 25 of Petterino’s with Special Guests; Booth 46 appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Japanese researchers are reporting findings which lend some optimism to finally treating chronic feline kidney disease (CKD) or kidney insufficiency. If these efforts prove successful, it’s a potential game changer to improve quality of life and to extend lifespans of cats. Currently, veterinarians can help slow the progression of disease with prescription diets, fluid therapy,… The post For Cats With Chronic Kidney Disease, Hope May Be on the Horizon appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Colorado Becomes Latest State to Ban Pet Store Sales of dogs and cats. Despite opposition from the American Kennel Club and big dollars money they’ve spent to oppose. The problems? For starters, primarily dogs that are sold at pet stores are sold from puppy mills or mass production facilities. Once sold brokers send dogs (more… The post Colorado Is the Latest State to Limit Pet Store Sales Ending a Puppy Mill Pipeline appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Urban rats do spread disease but it’s not the very rare strain hantavirus which has been in the news that is of greatest concern, it’s a relatively common bacterial infection called leptospirosis. A recent outbreak of leptospirosis in the Los Angeles area is putting veterinarians, dog daycare operators, and pet owners on alert. Thus Far,… The post Los Angeles Leptospirosis Outbreak Offers a Critical Lesson for Pet Owners Everywhere appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Veterinarians in Kentucky are reporting a noticeable increase in cases of often fatal bobcat fever, also called cytauxzoonosis, in domestic cats. Multiple Kentucky news outlets have quoted veterinarians who say they are seeing more cases than in previous years, particularly in outdoor cats. But any cat going outdoors is at risk if that cat is… The post Kentucky and Other States Experiencing Increase in Serious Tick Disease in Cats appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
He may have been generous with his money. Ernie Dosio, a 75-year-old Lodi businessman and longtime big-game hunter, was killed April 17 during a hunting trip in Gabon, Africa after a herd of African elephants reportedly charged him and his guide in the rainforest. However, I suggest – heartless as it may sound – when you… The post The Hunted Receives the Trophy: Elephant Kills Big Game Hunter appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Listen HERE to Steve Dale’s Pet World WGN Radio, as renowned veterinary dentist Dr. Jan Bellows offers some surprising views. For example, he’s more or less given up on telling pet parents to brush their pets’ teeth. He explains only two percent brush their pets’ teeth. For dogs: Consider dental wipes, if you do it… The post Open-Wide Veterinary Dentist Dr. Jan Bellows on Dog and Cat Dental Care appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Ice-Cream social and cats – Hear John Landecker, WGN Radio, try try to understand how ice-cream and cats may be connected with John Manchester of Windy City Sweets. I explain how during the pandemic when I was in the vaccine trial for the MRNA vaccine for COVID-19, I was paid a stipend, which I turns… The post Cats, Cones, and Calico Crunch: EveryCat’s Sweet Chicago Ice-Cream Social appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
It was a pleasure and honor to be interviewed by Canadian companion animal psychologist and award-winning author of dogs and cat books, Zazie Todd and Kristi Benson, a Canadian professional dog trainer, behavior consultant, writer. We talk about my latest book, called Ask the Dog, and how it came to be. When we encounter dogs… The post Ask the Dog: Steve Dale Talks Consent, Dog Bitees, and EveryCat Cat Health Advances with Zazie Todd and Kristi Benson appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
A very special PetCast – as I’ve wanted to meet Deborah Cribbs for some time. You can see and hear our WGN radio Petcast conversation HERE about spay/neuter in cats and what Give Them Ten is all about. The initiatives/campaigns, which they’ve created a more than fun – they’re also incredibly meaningful. There shouldn’t be… The post Petcast: Give Them Ten is About Giving Cats an Extra Life appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
I wrote about remembering those who have served our military on Memorial Day, including military working dogs. I joked in a video about there being no military working cats – but it turns out – as viewers suggested – I am wrong about that. True enough – so far, no bomb-sniffing cats, cats guarding military… The post There ARE Military Working Cats appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
HEAR on Steve Dale’s Pet World, actor Joey Luthman on WGN Radio, as he explains why he traveled from California to Maine on a one-wheel to raise money for cat health research benefiting the EveryCat Health Foundation. His one-of-a-kind journey inspired the documentary film CAT MAN, which is now appearing at film festivals across the country. Luthman truly believes… The post CAT MAN on Cat Health; Inside the Rescue of 1,500 Beagles appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Listen HERE to this Booth 46 Podcast with Anti-Cruelty president Darlene Duggan recorded LIVE from Petterino’s, the heart of Chicago’s Loop. A funny thing happened to Darlene on the way to medical school. She talks about why today most households have at least one pet. Why it seems more pets are being relinquished – she… The post Booth 46 for Petterino’s: If Only Every City Had Chicago’s Anti Cruelty appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
In recent years, there’s been a movement to remember what Memorial Day is supposed to be about: Remembering those who have valiantly served our country, and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. According to various sources including statista.com, about 700,000 Americans have lost their lives since World War I, which is when… The post Remembering the Fallen: Including America’s Military Working Dogs appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Before appearing on Stephen Colbert (for one of his final programs), David Byrne sat next to me at Booth 46 at Petterino’s Restaurant. David Byrne fans can listen to the WGN Radio Booth 46 podcast HERE, Our conversation covered a lot of ground, including his theatrical immersive Chicago show Theatre of the Mind (333 N. LaSalle)… The post Recently Spoke To David Byrne, A Part of Colbert’s Farewell Shows appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
The American pet industry continues to break records, and the newest data from the American Pet Products Association (APPA) paints a picture of a nation overall more devoted to companion animals than ever. According to APPA’s 2026 State of the Industry Report 95 million U.S. households now own at least one pet, representing nearly three-quarters… The post Despite the Economy: More Pets, More Spending: APPA’s Latest Report Tracks America’s Pet Boom appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Fred Winston is widely regarded as one of the most influential and entertaining radio personalities in America and he may be and should be inducted into the Broadcast Communications Radio Hall of Fame. Early early early in my career I was Fred’s producer, and I learned so much from him at WCFL radio, though he… The post Induct Fred Winston in the Radio Hall of Fame appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
The approval of a new anti-anxiety medication for dogs by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is drawing attention from veterinarians and pet owners alike, as behavioral problems in dogs continue to rise nationwide. Separation anxiety happens to be at the top of the list, now considered the most reported canine behavior disorder appearing in… The post New Drug for Separation Anxiety in Dogs appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
I was nervous about the talking with legendary journalist Bill Kurtis. Listen HERE from Steve Dale’s Other World, WGN Radio, as we talk about his early career, and how his legal background helped him to cover various court cases. And how an oncoming tornado in Kansas may have been what was a turning point in… The post Bill Kurtis: Whirlwind Of a Career appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Listen HERE on Steve Dale’s Pet World, WGN radio as Dr. Debra Horwitz and Dr. Amy Pike, veterinary behaviorists and co-authors of Blackwell’s Five-Minute Veterinary Consult Clinical Companion: Canine and Feline Behavior, 3rd Edition, explore topics in pet behavior. We launch right into questions about shock collars. Many who generally don’t like shock collar suggest… The post What Your Dog and Cat Wish You Understood with Two Veterinary Behaviorists appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Listen HERE as I had lot to talk about with legendary John Records Landecker on WGN Radio, including whether or not centenarian Dick Van Dyke is alive today because a school porpoises (or dolphins) saved his life. In his book In his book Dick Van Dyke: An Optimist’s Guide to a Happy Life he tells the… The post From Dolphins Saving Dick Van Dyke’s Life to Can Dogs Be Addicted to Toys to Bark Walk to Raise Money for Anti Cruelty appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Hollywood legend Ruta Lee recalls the Golden Age of Hollywood, as I talk with her HERE on Steve Dale’s Other World, WGN Radio We begin with her comments on WGN radio newscaster Ron Brown – “It’s one of the sexiest (voices).” Of all the men she ever worked with, she talks about the two that… The post Ruta Lee And the Golden Age of Hollywood appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
I spoke to Lucie Arnaz on Steve Dale’s Other World, WGN Radio on Mother’s Day. Listen HERE as you never ever know what she will have to say. Yes, she does kind of have a famous mom, but she is herself a mom and she talks about how lucky she that all her kids live… The post Lucie Arnaz: From Her Parents to Her Parenting appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Video evidence is proof of what happened, not to mention his – up until now – arrogant responses to local authorities that “I can afford to pay the fine.” I wonder if he can afford the time to spend in jail? He should also be banned from all Hawaii beaches (if that is possible). Not… The post Man Charged After Throwing a Giant Rock at an Endangered Monk Seal appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Anti-Cruelty’s BARK walk for Chicago pets returns on May 30 this year which I spoke about with Terrell Brown and Val Warner on WLS-TV this morning with Titan, who is a social butterfly and available for adoption. Watch the segments: Here’s the streaming segment Here’s the on-air segment The goal is to fundraise $150,000 for… The post Adopting Terrific Titan and Bark Is Back appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Best I can tell Bark in the Park (now simply called BARK) is likely one of the first events of its kind in the nation, dating to 1995, when it was first held in Lincoln Park. Thousands of people with their dogs turned out year after year for a lovely and picturesque walk along Chicago’s… The post Anti Cruelty BARK appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Researchers in Hungary continue to uncover just how deeply dogs are connected to human emotions — and their findings strongly suggest that when we laugh, our dogs may experience it as a positive social signal. Much of the groundbreaking work comes from the Family Dog Project at Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) in Budapest, one of… The post Laugh and Your Dog Laughs With You appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
It’s all about heartworm disease – listen HERE to Steve Dale’s Pet World, WGN Radio to veterinary cardiologist Dr. Marisa Ames, Associate Professor at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and President of the American Heartworm Society, explains what heartworm disease is and why prevention is critical. She emphasizes that heartworm is completely preventable, yet still… The post All You Need to Know about Heartworm Disease appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
No lamb chops: These shoppers went straight for the chips. Shepherd Dieter Michler had no real answers for why 50 members of his flock split from the 500-sheep herd and made their way into a Penny supermarket in Burgsinn, Lower Franconia, Germany. The sheep wandered up and down the aisles. Sadly for the store, in… The post Runaway Sheep Cause Supermarket Stampede in Germany appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
I don’t honestly know much about this new option, but the prospects are incredibly important, as separation anxiety may (according to some data) be the most common behavior problem in dogs. What’s more, many dogs with separation anxiety concurrently have a fear of loud noises (and potentially thunderstorm anxiety may play into this as well).… The post New FDA Approved Drug for Separation Anxiety in Dogs appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
If you’ve ever suspected your dog might be a super-spy, new research suggests you may be right—at least if your dog happens to be exceptionally gifted. A recent study published in the journal Science found that a rare subset of highly intelligent dogs can learn the names of new objects simply by overhearing human conversations,… The post Some Dogs Are Super Spies appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
This is a problem in Oklahoma City – some porch pirates are cat burglars, or actually pooch pirates. Turns out the package swiped by the canine crooks was quickly recovered. The dogs wanted nothing to do with what they found inside, drill bits. Local police did investigate but did couldn’t pin down the motivation for… The post Pooch Pirates appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
A tail wag from a dog doesn’t necessarily mean what you think it means. When you really take a deep dive into wagging, it’s far more complex than you might think. What’s more the wag itself means FAR more when the context and additional signaling is factored in. Most often a wag indicates excitement, particularly… The post Learning Tail Wag Literacy appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Should there a Betty Ford Center for dogs? Many dogs love tennis balls, squeaky toys, or an endless game of fetch. According to new research, published in Scientific Reports, some dogs may take that enthusiasm to an extreme—displaying behavior that resembles toy addiction. A subset of highly play-motivated dogs may exhibit “addictive-like” behavior toward toys,… The post Addicted to Dog Toys appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
The Buddy Foundation in Arlington Heights is an amazing animal shelter on many levels, guiding homeless pets toward loving homes while operating entirely with volunteer support. Listen HERE to WGN radio Steve Dale’s Pet World, as longtime volunteer Louise Basgall shares details about their most important fundraiser, which I will host on May 28 at… The post Buddy Foundation Celebration; Anti Cruelty Traditional Walk in the Park is Bark appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Did the Belgian Malinois actually alert to danger? This is unclear when watching the video, though definitely the dog did express unusual interest in the gunman. Watch the video for yourself, but it appears the dog’s handler, from local law enforcement, didn’t realize that his dog was expressing an extra level of attention in Cole… The post Did Dog Alert to Warn of Danger at Correspondents Dinner? appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Do you have problem with wild boars (Am not talking about hear some politicians speak). This Polish city has a novel means to do with these potentially dangerous animals as Edward doesn’t much care if they animals he’s chasing turns on him. The post Novel Way to Deal with Urban Wildlife appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Pet owners are doing more than just feeding their dogs and cats—they’re increasingly looking for ways to boost their pets’ health, prevent disease, and even extend their lives – as a result nutraceutical market projected to double by 2033 according to a story in PETFOOD Industry. That shift is helping fuel rapid growth in the… The post The New Pet Menu: Probiotics, Supplements and a Side of Longevity appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Keeping cats indoors may be one of the simplest decisions owners can make to improve both feline health and wildlife conservation—and the benefits can be dramatic. Though I understand that for some cats keeping them indoors only can be challenging as they’ve been outdoors for their entire lives. But when there’s a choice the argument… The post The Case for Keeping Cats Indoors Has Never Been Stronger appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
It was about 30 years ago when French veterinarian and animal behavior specialist Dr. Patrick Pageat introduced a then-transformational idea: using synthetic versions of animals’ naturally occurring pheromones to help reduce fear, anxiety, and stress—and ultimately help pets feel more secure. That concept has since become an important tool in veterinary behavioral medicine. After all,… The post A Scent of Security: How New Pheromone Products Help Pets Cope appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Dr, Niels Pedersen, professor emeritus University California, Davis who has contributed to so much to veterinary medicine, and therefore to the health of our dogs and cats. Listen HERE to Steve Dale’s Pet World, and my discussion of how things really came about with the one man who was there for it all, Dr. Pedersen… The post FIP Breakthrough: The Science, the Struggle, Hear Dr. Niels Pedersen’s on FIP and His Legacy appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
A survey of 6,500 pet owners found that 43 percent reported their pets had been infected with parasites, and one in five cases occurred within the past year. Nearly all these pet owner experiences would likely have been preventable, and people aren’t happy about that as 75 percent of respondents said they would like clearer… The post Parasite Protection Can Be Accomplished But It’s Not Happening appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Pets may be beloved members of the family, but a new survey suggests they are also responsible for a surprising amount of household chaos. According to the Omni Calculator Pet Mishaps 2026 Survey, to celebrate National Pet Owners’ Day, April 26, most pet owners report their dogs or cats cause two to three mishaps per… The post Lucky They’re Cute: Survey Finds Pets Cause Chaos appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Listen HERE to WGN Radio’s Booth 46 live from Petterino’s Chicago native and distinguished actor of the stage not to mention TV and in the movies, Harry Lennix returns to his hometown as associate director and music director of The Goodman Theatre’s production of Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (extended through May 3rd). He says this is the best… The post Booth 46: Distinguished Actor Harry Lennix appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Earth Day (April 22) is meant to focus attention on the health of our planet. Yet somehow, acknowledging that the very world we depend on is in trouble has become politicized. No matter what Donald Trump and a few others (who are decidedly not scientists) contend, the evidence is overwhelming and measurable: the planet is… The post Protecting Our Planet is No Hoax appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
You don’t care about rainforests around the globe disappearing or our oceans’ coral reefs dying? It turns out that you or your pets may have used a pharmaceutical product discovered in rain forests or derived from ocean plants in the past 10 years alone. This drug is from the Amazon rainforest, the sap of the… The post The World’s Hidden Pharmacies Are Disappearing appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
For years, opossums have enjoyed a glowing reputation on social media as nature’s tick-vacuum cleaners, often credited with eating thousands of ticks each season. But while these North America marsupials may provide ecological benefits, scientists say the story is more complicated than the viral myth suggests. Opossums, the only marsupials native to North America, are… The post Opossums Are Tick Terminators (Though Not As Much As Advertised) appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Listen HERE on Steve Dale’s Other World, WGN Radio, to Joan Colletta, founder of The Creative Conservancy and from the Commission of Chicago Animal Care and Control, but also has lent her expertise and muscle to saving the rhinoceros, and now just prior to Earth Day the right time to hear this. She explains why the… The post She Defended Rhinoceros Up Close and Personal appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
It’s not a topic not often written about but one lots pet owners want to discuss—anal sac problems. This is common and can potential become serious or at least stinky if ignored. Veterinarians say what often begins as a minor issue—such as a dog scooting across the floor—can develop into painful inflammation or even infection… The post Anal Sac Secrets Revealed appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
If your cat allergies seem to flare up in May and June, you’re not imagining it. Allergies are cumulative. That means even if your reaction to cats is usually mild, the added burden of seasonal triggers—like tree pollen and mold spores—can push your immune system past its threshold. The result: sneezing, wheezing, itchy eyes, and… The post Living Clear of Cat Allergies appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Adrian Galante arranger, orchestrator and music director of Going Bacharach at the Apollo Theater, 2450 N. Lincoln Ave., from April 21st to May 17th. Of all the Bacharach (typically with lyricist Hal David) songs – including Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head, What the World Needs Now Is Love, I Say a Little Prayer, Walk… The post Going Bacharach appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Listen here on Steve Dale’s Other World, an interview with Jason Alexander, who directs the wickedly dark new comedy stars leading film and television actor Enrico Colantoni (English Teacher, Galaxy Quest, Veronica Mars), Chicago’s own Rebecca Spence (Jeff Award winner; now starring in The Madison, opposite Michelle Pfeiffer), and Nick Marini (Netflix’s Cobra Kai, Dropout TV). Emmy and Tony Award… The post Whose Fault Is It? Jason Alexander Talks Dark Comedy appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Listen HERE Steve Dale’s Pet World, WGN Radio to Boarded Surgeon Dr. Aaron Jackson of Midwest Veterinary Surgical Services on the most concern for pets when considering surgery, which is anesthesia Dr. Jackson has operated all sorts of surgeries over the years – but what is the most common one? We also discuss spectrum of care or… The post Secrets of a Veterinary Surgeon; Revealing a New Product for Dog Dental Health appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
If not for a school of porpoises, Dick Van Dyke might never have made it to 100. In his book Dick Van Dyke: An Optimist’s Guide to a Happy Life, the beloved entertainer recounts how he was surfing on a 10-foot board off Virginia Beach in the 1940s when calm seas and gentle swells lulled… The post Porpoise Pushes Saved Dick Van Dyke’s Life appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Be careful what you say around your dog. It turns out that they do have an ability to eavesdrop. At least some dogs have this superpower, according to this study in Science. Takeaways from the study: Researchers studied 10 “Gifted Word Learner” dogs (dogs known to recognize many toy names). 7 of 10 dogs successfully… The post Is Your Dog a Sneaky Gifted Learner? appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
The world celebrated when the Atermis II astronauts splashed down safely….but few celebrated with the pure joy of Sadie, the four-legged member of mission specialists Christina Koch’s family. And I do think pure joy is the only way to describe this scene – on both sides. The post A Hero’s Canine Welcome appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
The FDA has granted full approval to verdinexor tablets (Laverdia; Anivive Lifesciences) for the treatment of dogs with lymphoma. The approval gives veterinarians a promising new oral avenue for managing the disease in dogs. Cancer cells can disable normal cellular growth regulation by driving tumor-suppressing proteins out of the nucleus. Verdinexor tablets target this system… The post New Medication for Lymphoma in Dogs appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Love doing radio with legendary John Landecker talking HERE on WGN Radio about Dog Bite Prevention Week. I talk about how dog bite numbers are on the rise. And why that is the case. Since dog bites are mostly preventable, what are we missing? I suggest that the answer is that we often forgete to… The post Talking Dog Bite Prevention to Co-Evolving with Dogs with John Landecker appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
A newly published review in Animals, The Use of Structured Professional Judgement: A New Way to Understand and Assess Bite Risk from Dogs offers guidance for a framework to assess potentially dangerous dogs. As dog bite numbers increase there’s a concern that breed bans might make a comeback. Researchers agree that breed doesn’t matter; breed-specific… The post Researchers Propose New Framework for Evaluating Potentially Dangerous Dogs appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Dog bites remain a common and often preventable injury among children, with new data from the National Institutes of Health underscoring both the frequency of these incidents and the gaps in prevention and treatment. Dog Bite Prevention Week is now through April 18. An analysis of pediatric emergency department cases found that while most dog… The post Children Are Victims in About Half of All Dog Bites: It’s All About Prevention appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Hear a “sit-down” discussion about Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) with Executive Director, Sue Cappello from Steve Dale’s Pet World, WGN Radio. It is a sad reality of today that all over the country municipal facilities are experiencing a shocking number of people seeking to relinquish their animals. We discuss the reasons for that which includes… The post Honest Sit Down Discussion with Executive Director Chicago Animal Care and Control appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
From the time we’re children, we’re taught a simple rule: If you see a dog you don’t know, ask the person, “Can I pet your dog?” That’s good advice. But it’s only half the conversation. We also need to ask the dog, which happens to be the name of my most recent book, called Ask… The post Dog Bite Prevention Week: Ask the Dog appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Award winning Community Cat Podcast host Stacy LaBaron calls this “a powerful and emotional episode of the Community Cats Podcast,” as I spoke with her about my own story with a cat named Ricky. As a result of losing him to feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy – which is incidentally very common – Over 20 years ago… The post Cat Health News: Community Cats Podcast appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
David Byrne has done it does it all, including hearing him in this appearance on Booth 46, from Petterino’s Restaurant, talking abut his newly opened show Theatre of the Mind (333 N. LaSalle) produced by the The Goodman Theatre. Of course, Byrne is the co-founder of the Talking Heads, He’s an Academy, Tony and Grammy… The post Conversation with David Byrne Booth 46 appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
April 10 is National Hug Your Dog Day, but this is an awful message. In general dogs don’t love being hugged. – in fact, sometime dog hugs lead to dog bites. Instead of National Hug Your Dog Day, it ought to be changed to National Love Your Dog Day. Hugging dogs is not innocuous. It’s… The post End National Hug Your Dog Day appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Just because a cat ages doesn’t mean the need for enrichment dissipates. A 14-year-old cat’s prey drive isn’t different than a four-year old cat. I’ll be talking about this issue at the April 11-12, as a 2026 symposium, Health Breakthroughs for Every Cat: Healthy Feline Aging, presented by EveryCat Health Foundation and NC State College… The post Are Enriched Environments A Fountain of Youth for Aging Cats? appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Pet insurance in the U.S. now provides coverage for about 3.9 percent of dogs and cats per North American Pet Health Insurance Association 2025 State of the Industry report.. While over seven million pets are insured, I am less a proponent of pet insurance than I have been in the past. For our healthy now… The post Pet Insurance: Is That Safety Net Increasingly Unaffordable? appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Friday April 3 would have been Dr. Jane Goodall’s 92nd birthday, and to celebrate it was International Jane Goodall Day. From Steve Dale’s Other World, WGN Radio, listen HERE to my conversation with Anna Rathmann, executive director Jane Goodall Institute USA. Anna discusses behind-the-scenes of this intimate conversation, recorded before she passed away, but not… The post Celebrating Jane Goodall Day with Executive Director of Jane Goodall Institute appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
The cost of tuition for veterinary schools is not cheap. Having said that – depending on the school and whether in-state or out of state, the tuition average may have declined just a bit compared to last year. Depending on in-state or out-of-state, the tuition over four years is about $180,000 to over $300,000. That’s… The post Top Veterinary Schools in the U.S. and Costs appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Listen HERE to Steve Dale’s Pet World, WGN radio as Certified Animal Behavior Consultant and dog trainer Mikkel Becker, who also co-founded Fear Free, has a fascinating take on shock collar use in dogs compared to how people with psychiatric issues were once routinely treated similarly with electro-shock therapy like her grandpa Bob. Becker says that… The post Shock Collars vs. Shock Therapy: Mikkel Becker Challenges How Some Train Dogs and Takes on Affordability of Vet Care appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Animal control facilities, including Chicago’s, far too often get a bad rap. This little pup was missing for eight years! Luna was stolen nearly a decade ago from her family in Indianapolis, IN. But her family, although heartbroken, never gave up. Her microchip remained registered and flagged as missing all these years… just waiting for… The post Two Families Connected by One Dog (Warning, this reunion video might make you cry) appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
Chicago’s own Dr. Anne Beall, award-winning multi-book author, joins me on Steve Dale’s Other World, WGN Radio, to talk about her latest book titled The Compassionate Writer: Find Your Voice, Enhance Your Story, and Touch Lives. Beall says “everyone has a story” reminds listeners to write with courage, edit with kindness, and share their stories with… The post Anne Beall: The Compassionate Writer appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
It’s a wonder Dr. Jane Goodall was never awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, and she may still be named a patron Saint by Pope Leo. No one in my lifetime is more deserving. Today (April 3 – what would have been her 92nd birthday) is Jane Goodall Day. She passed away in October 2025. After… The post Celebrating Jane Goodall Day: “We Can Never Lose Hope” appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
April 2 is World Ferret Day. The idea is to highlight ferrets as companion animals, promote proper care and enrichment, and raise awareness about their behavior and welfare needs. Many shelters, rescue groups, and exotic-animal veterinarians also use the occasion to encourage adoption and education about responsible ownerships and as a reminder that California continues… The post Shocking That Ferrets Remain Illegal in California: April 2 is World Ferret Day appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) has released its latest list of the nation’s most popular dog breeds, and for the fourth consecutive year, the French Bulldog remains America’s top dog (all based on 2025 registration numbers). However, AKC numbers increasingly don’t come close to telling the real story. For one thing, even people who purchase… The post French Bulldogs Are Top Dog Again (Or Are They?) appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.
True pet stories that sound like April Fools but these are real. And the animals played April Fool’s joke on us: At about three in the morning the doorbell at their home kept ringing, night after night. This was before the days of doorbell cameras. And by the time family members made it to the… The post April Fools: Who’s Fooling Who? appeared first on Steve Dale Pet World.