Episodes
Dr. Robin Downing on the bioethics in veterinary medicine and primary principles of ascent dog training
April 28, 2024 11:36Dr. Robin Downing is a polymath (that means she knows A LOT) of veterinary medicine, a well-respected, albeit outspoken, expert on many topics. Discussed are a wide range of subjects from bioethics in veterinary medicine to the Fear Free initiative and principles to consent dog training (ascent is actually a better term) to declaw in […]
The most popular dog breeds in the U.S., tips for your pet’s safety from the Pet Poison Helpline, and more
April 21, 2024 11:36Dr. Renee Schmid is Senior Toxicologist at Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 pet animal poison control center. A wide range of concerns including rodenticides to insecticides; and what you can do if your pet ingests some. The truth about garlic in cats and dogs. Also discussed is Xylitol or Birch Sugar which can quickly kill, and […]
Canine separation anxiety and how to treat it
April 14, 2024 11:35Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Chris Pachel talks about canine separation anxiety – what it IS and what it IS NOT. What can people do to deal with dogs who have separation anxiety? Are dogs really guilty after having an accident indoors or tearing up a pillow because of separation anxiety. Why are psycho-pharmaceuticals may be required or […]
Dog Bite Prevention Week and Dr. Mikel Delgado on why playtime is essential to your cat’s mental and physical health
April 07, 2024 11:35Play with Your Cat! – That is both the name of the book and the message from Dr. Mikel Delgado. She discusses how to play with your cat, what are the best toys to play with your cat, when are the best times to play with your cat and most important why play is ESSENTIAL to your […]
Lessons on dogs suffering from cancer, the importance of demonstrating competence in the dog training field, and more
March 31, 2024 17:59Bradley Phifer, Director of Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers , explains what this organization is and what to look for if you happen to be sniffing out a dog trainer. And dog training is not a licensed profession, and some trainers use methods that can do more harm than good. That’s why demonstrating competence in the field […]
Dr. Ernie Ward talks pet obesity and prevention; Jackie Ott Jaakola on the benefits of cat health studies; and more
March 24, 2024 11:40Founder and President of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, Dr. Ernie Ward, says the issue is far more complex than people merely offering too much table food. So, what exactly has been going on? And why with every passing year are there more and more obese dogs/cats? And it’s not only about weight, but […]
Animal Planet’s Victoria Stilwell shares details about her upcoming 11th Annual Dog Behavior Conference
March 17, 2024 11:34From IT’S ME OR THE DOG on Animal Planet, a very wide-ranging conversation with superstar dog trainer Victoria Stilwell. She announces that the virtual Victoria Stilwell Academy 11th Annual Dog Behavior Conference is April 19-21 and discloses who some of the speakers are and what some of the topics are. The hope is that San Francisco – working […]
Anti-Cruelty Society of Chicago celebrates 125 years!
March 10, 2024 11:35Dr. Sheilah Robertson, who received the Animal Welfare for the American Veterinary Medical Association, is as expert anesthesia and analgesia. She points out that people (and pets too) can truly die directly due to pain and offers the history of what we know about this. And answers at what point do you not put a […]
Upcoming symposium covering feline pain, how to know if your dog or cat loves you, and more
March 03, 2024 12:35Kara Burns is a Credentialed Veterinary Technician with a specialty in nutrition, dentistry, and internal medicine. To acknowledge the difference she’s made in veterinary medicine, she was just honored with the Icon Award from the Bridge Club. Burns is on the Board of Directors of the EveryCat Health Foundation, and talks about an upcoming symposium, “Health Breakthroughs for […]
How to not be fooled by third party telehealth providers for your pet
February 25, 2024 12:35Virtual care or telehealth is available and it’s tempting – but might not be in your best interest or your pets’ interest, according to Dr. Gail Golab, Associate Executive Vice President and Chief Veterinary Officer of the American Veterinary Medical Association. Actually, Dr. Golab loves the idea of telehealth, noting “it can be amazing” IF and […]
Most popular dog names of 2023, upcoming Feline Health Symposium, and more
February 18, 2024 12:04Gene O’Neill is CEO of North American Veterinary Community and the VMX veterinary meeting – the largest continuing education event for veterinary professionals. He explains how this matters to you as a pet parent. Dr. Tammy Grubb, President of the International Academy of Veterinary Pain Management and adjunct professor at Washington State University, discusss a Feline Health Symposium, Health Breakthroughs […]
Pet Dental Health Month, Barb’s Precious Rescue celebrates 10 years of saving cats, and more
February 11, 2024 12:10Veterinary dentist Dr. Jan Bellows celebrates Pet Dental Health Month. He discusses preventive care (including several surprise answers). Indeed it’s all about prevention, like dental diets and treats, wipes and water additives like Oratene. Dr. Michael Lappin, Professor at Colorado State University, has been investigating that mystery dog respiratory infection. He reveals what experts know and […]
Veterinary Behaviorist Dr. Lisa Radosta talks common but sometimes life-threatening behavior problems in dogs and cats
February 04, 2024 12:33Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Lisa Radosta discusses common but truly sometimes life-threatening behavior problems in dogs and cats. She is co-author of Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat. Topics include separation anxiety and cats who have accidents outside of their litter boxes.
How cats are so adept at masking pain, how to introduce a new cat into your home, and more
January 28, 2024 12:34Dr. Tammy Grubb reveals how cats are so adept at masking pain. Dr. Grubb is president of the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Managementand adjunct professor Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine. And now there’s a new way to treat arthritis in cats. Famed cat book author Gwen Cooper has done it again. Her latest […]
Veterinary cardiologist Dr. Brian Scansen on all things heart disease in dogs
January 21, 2024 12:35While some dog behaviors are perfectly normal if you happen to be a dog, like jumping on people who arrive at the house or digging at the garden, these are not acceptable behaviors to live with. Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Valli Parthasarathy offers solutions about what to do. Veterinary cardiologist Dr. Brian Scansen on all things […]
Tips on keeping pets safe in cold weather
January 14, 2024 12:37Baby, it’s cold out there and getting colder. Dr. Natalie Marks offers tips on keeping pets safe in very cold weather, from which pets benefit by wearing coats or sweaters to how it is true that pets can get frostbite, and what those warning signs are. Also, a discussion about antifreeze and other winter hazards. […]
Dr. Ian Dunbar on his latest book ‘Barking Up the Right Tree: The Science of Positive Dog Training’
January 07, 2024 12:38Legendary dog trainer Dr. Ian Dunbar is a ground-breaking source of so much of what we take for granted today regarding dog training. His books are “bibles” in the world of dog training, and his most recent one is Barking Up the Right Tree: The Science of Positive Dog Training. Dr. Dunbar is not without strongly […]
New Year Resolutions for pets from the President of the American Veterinary Medical Association
December 31, 2023 12:38It’s a Steve Dale’s Pet World tradition, talking with the President of the American Veterinary Medical Association about resolutions for the New Year for pets. Dr. Rena Carlson talks about regular twice a year for life checkups, virtual or telehealth care, dealing with how the majority of U.S. dogs/cats are overweight or obese and teaching dogs new tricks, even […]
Highlights of 2023 in Veterinary Medicine and the Howliday reading of ‘A Pet’s Night Before Christmas’
December 24, 2023 12:35Talking with Dr. Mark Goldstein has become a Steve Dale’s Pet World howliday tradition. No one embodies howliday positivity as Dr. Goldstein. And he’s done it all in vet medicine, nowadays telling stories about his wonderful life. He also offers highlights of the year 2023 in vet medicine and looks into his crystal ball for next year. […]
Christmas safety tips for keeping your pets out of the emergency room
December 17, 2023 12:30Dr. Adam Christman (sometimes called Dr. Christmas) is a secret Santa, and Chief Veterinary Officer at DVM360. Discussed is safety at Christmas – tips for keeping pets out of the emergency room. For example, kiss under the mistletoe, but keep pets away and warns about dangers of tinsel. Dr. Wendy Hauser of Peak Veterinary Consulting […]
Zen by Cat is raising funds to further treatment for kittens with FIP in honor of Dr. Elizabeth Colleran
December 10, 2023 12:30Wayne Pacelle, President Animal Wellness Action and Center for Humane Economy, weighs in on how Oklahoma Governor Keven Stit is supporting cockfighting, which is a felony. Pacelle explains exactly what goes on at these gruesomely violent events. Here is the Governor himself supporting cockfighting. Pacelle points out cockfighting occurs in Illinois far more than you may think. Zen by Cat Co-founder […]
Guidelines for animal shelters, National Link Coalition, and more
December 03, 2023 17:46Dr. Jeanette O’Quinn, Associate Professor of Shelter Medicine at the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine notes that shelter medicine is in many ways very different compared to small animal private practice, and is now a specialty. O’Quinn notes there are Guidelines for shelters from the Journal of Shelter Medicine and Community Animal Health. Also, discussed […]
Understanding cats and how they became domesticated
November 26, 2023 13:35All about cats – this show features Dr. Sarah Brown, Author of The Hidden Language of Cats: How They Have Us At Meow. Understanding cats, no easy task, begins with understanding how cats became domesticated. However, some feel they aren’t domesticated – so are they or not? Cats do communicate with us all time. How do you […]
A conversation with broadcasters David Frei and John O’Hurley ahead of the Thanksgiving Day National Dog Show Presented by Purina
November 19, 2023 13:35With the National Dog Show Presented by Purina on Thanksgiving Day, NBC at noon (all time zones), a conversation with broadcasters David Frei and John O’Hurley. As always, trying to nail Frei down to who he thinks might win the show. Very few TV programs last 22 years, what is it about the dog show? Social media […]
New drug that helps control pain associated with canine osteoarthritis, how to find a pet sitter, and more
November 12, 2023 13:35Dr. Kristin Shaw, a pain specialist at Zoetis, has an exciting announcement about a new drug called Librela, a monoclonal antibody which controls pain associated with canine osteoarthritis. SO many dogs suffer from arthritis, many old dogs (and dogs are living longer so that number is on the rise); overweight/obese dogs (another number unfortunately on […]
Dr. Patrick Flynn discusses arthritis treatments for cats and dogs
November 05, 2023 12:34Dr. Patrick Flynn, professional services veterinarian at Zoetis discusses two monoclonal antibody treatments for arthritis, one for cats called Solensia and for dogs, the newly released Librela. Also, veterinary behaviorist Dr. Meghan Heron of Gigi ‘s, a shelter and adoption center for dogs on a new monoclonal antibody to treat canine parvovirus. Dr. Flynn, also […]
Dr. Marc Bekoff talks about his latest book ‘Dogs Demystified: An A to Z Guide of All Things Canine’
October 29, 2023 11:35Legendary ethologist Dr. Marc Bekoff, professor emeritus of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Colorado, Boulder; Fellow of the Animal Behavior Society, and a past Guggenheim Fellow. His latest (of his many books), Dogs Demystified: An A to Z Guide of All Things Canine with a foreword authored by his chum Dr. Jane Goodall. How people […]
Let’s Talk About Cancer virtual event is coming up, an organization is offering hope regarding canine cancers, and more
October 22, 2023 16:13Let’s Talk About Cancer is a virtual event on November, 7 p.m. It’s free, and you can register at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_DCJxOOFOQl-mKHNjAkRLyQ. Dr. Thomas Butera CEO of Volition Veterinary and Tricia Montgomery, founder of the non-profit Moose’s March and President of Pets are Family offer hope regarding canine cancers. On average, six million dogs are affected by cancer […]
Dr. Kurt Venator on National Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October 15, 2023 11:42October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which Dr. Kurt Venator, chief veterinary officer at Purina, talks about. A surprising number of families experience abuse in their lifetimes, but don’t want to flee out of fear of what may happen to the pet, and only very few domestic violence shelters allow pets. Purina has worked […]
Orphans of the Storm has their 95th Anniversary Gala quickly approaching and we also learn why shelters in the suburbs are filling up
October 08, 2023 17:52Head of development and community relations at Orphans of the Storm, Sandy DeLisle talks about their upcoming 95th Anniversary Gala October 13, at Independence Grove in Libertyville. DeLisle discusses why shelters are filling up in the ‘burbs, and her answers are surprising. DeLisle, in an effort to get a message across about the dogs most often in […]
Why pet lovers everywhere need to know about the Fear Free initiative
October 01, 2023 11:40Pet lovers everywhere need to know about an initiative called Fear Free, and corresponding website for pet parents, FearFreeHappyHomes. Fear Free’s creator Dr. Mary Becker explains why he was determined take the terror out of veterinary visits, and even in some cases dog training and boarding dogs in kennels. Dr. Becker’s initiative is changing the paradigm, […]
How production animals are raised for food, All Pets Wellness Center coming to Aurora, and more
September 24, 2023 11:40Wayne Pacelle is President of Animal Wellness Action and Center for Humane Economy, and he shares how production animals are raised for food, and recent legal changes to protect those animals with appropriate welfare. And he explains a story you may never have heard about regarding how China impacts the way which we treat our farm animals. Certified […]
President of the Anti Cruelty Society provides an update on what’s happening with the Chicago animal shelters
September 17, 2023 11:35An update on what’s happening with the shelter scene like in Chicago, and it’s not all good news, says Tracy Elliott, president of the Anti Cruelty Society. Intake is up and adoption of dogs are down. And Tracy explains the real reasons why, which isn’t necessarily consistent with what’s been reported elsewhere. He also explains that oddly […]
Dr. Tammy Grubb offers exciting news for arthritic dogs and more
September 10, 2023 11:35Amy Shojai is the recipient of the American Veterinary Medical Association Steve Dale Excellence In Veterinary Communications Award. And, aside from authoring countless pet articles in blogs and magazines, she has authored well over 30 books. She discusses two of those books, one is about the necessarily of enrichment for dogs, and another is the need for enrichment for […]
News regarding fleas and ticks from Dr. Susan Little
September 03, 2023 11:35Dr. Susan Little, Professor Parasitology Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, might scare you with news she has regarding ticks – how numerous they are – and tick disease. She also talks about fleas, and why those buggers are more than merely gross. Kara Burns, licensed veterinary technician, reveals a new way your veterinarian […]
‘For the Love of DOG: The Ultimate Relationship Guide’ and how to tap into your pet’s potential
August 27, 2023 11:35How smart are dogs, really? Could we do much more to tap into their potential? Pilley Bianchi, who knows a little something about smart dogs (her dad John Pilley Jr. trained Chaser, the world’s smartest dog) has authored For the Love of DOG: The Ultimate Relationship Guide. It’s a fascinating discussion about who dogs really are. […]
Dr. Liz Brown and David Frei on The Great American Cat and Dog Shows
August 20, 2023 11:35Dr. Liz Brown and David Frei discuss the Great American Cat Show and the Great American Dog Show. What can people expect if you’ve never been to a cat show? What cats show judges look for? What are some activities that happen at the cat show beyond the beauty contest part of the program? At […]
The Ron and Vicki Santo Diabetic Alert Dog Foundation
August 13, 2023 11:35Vicki Santo discusses the Ron and Vicki Santo Diabetic Alert Dog Foundation, which was a dream of Ron’s. In some cases, the trained dogs have actually saved lives. Vicki explains how the dogs are trained, and how Steve Dale even had something to do with Ron and Vicki understanding how dogs are connected and can alert […]
Everything you need to know about heart disease in cats
August 06, 2023 11:30A very special conversation with Dr. Kate Meurs, Dean of Medicine at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, talks about heart disease in cats, which may be the most common cause of death among cats who are about 2 to 8 years old. Steve discusses a fund he created to support investigators like […]
Certified dog behavior consultant Peggy Morgan on positive reinforcement dog training and more
July 30, 2023 11:40Dog trainer and certified dog behavior consultant Peggy Moran goes into philosophical depth regarding positive reinforcement dog training. She knows, as she has lived through the evolution of dog training and she has evolved herself. Look for what you want and know how to reinforcement and be less concerned about punishing for what you don’t want. She […]
‘Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat’ with co-author Dr. Lisa Radosta, Fear Free, and more
July 23, 2023 13:24Renowned veterinary behaviorist Dr. Lisa Radosta co-authored the most recent edition of Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat (with Dr. Gary Landsberg and Dr. Lowell Ackerman). Anxiety or panic (such as in separation anxiety) does cause a physiological change in the body, which Dr. Radosta explains. She also talks about how important it is to be […]
“Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat” with co-author Dr. Lisa Radosta, Fear Free, and more
July 23, 2023 13:24Renowned veterinary behaviorist Dr. Lisa Radosta, co-authored the most recent edition of Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat (with Dr. Gary Landsberg and Dr. Lowell Ackerman). Anxiety or panic (such as in separation anxiety) does cause a physiological change in the body, which Dr. Radosta explains. She also talks about how important it is to be […]
Canine Cruise returns once again this year, keeping dogs safe in hot weather, and more
July 16, 2023 11:38Holly Agra of the Mercury Skyline Cruiseline talks about the Canine Cruise, which began as a result of a conversation 15 years ago with Steve on WGN Radio. It’s a novel dog-friendly cruise, kind of an architecture cruise for dogs, showing off the parks with the most squirrels and oldest fire hydrant. Also discussed is Architecture Cruise, […]
Why enrichment is so important for your pet’s well-being, alternative ideas to keep your dogs busy indoors, and more
July 09, 2023 11:40Veterinary behaviorist Katherine (Kat) Pankratz explains what enrichment is and why for dogs and cats it’s so important for their well-being. Physical exercise is certainly a good idea, but on walks, she says let dogs smell the world. Enrichment my vary depending on the breed. And there’s a better way to feed dogs and cats, and she explains […]
What you can do about fearful pets as fireworks continue to sound off
July 02, 2023 16:51Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Debbie Horwitz, a contributing editor of Decoding Your Dog (with Steve Dale and Dr. John Ciribassi) on what you can do now about pets fearful – sometimes downright panicked – about fireworks. Sometimes pets can deal with it on their own, and others do require help. Also discussed is traveling by car with pets, […]
Now is the time to prepare your dogs for fireworks and loud noises, Rainbow Animal Assisted Therapy to help children address their fear of dogs, and more
June 25, 2023 11:40Dr. Nikko Grossapoulos, professional services veterinarian at Zoetis on fleas, ticks and mosquitoes and how prevention of diseases spread by the buggers is a FAR better strategy than treating the diseases they cause. If you have a pet fearful of fireworks, now is the time to begin to get ahead of the problem. A fascinating discussion […]
Pet obesity prevention with Dr. Ernie Ward
June 18, 2023 11:35A detailed discussion with the President/Founder Association for Pet Obesity Prevention Dr. Ernie Ward. He offers an update on the latest data from the Association of Pet Obesity Prevention. Just as in human health, obesity is a disease regarding pets, and medical risks are significant and among pets. There’s a psychological impact as well. However, the […]
Shortage of veterinary professionals and how virtual care can make a huge difference, an intense discussion regarding banning sales at pet stores, and more
June 11, 2023 11:40Mark Cushing, president of the Animal Policy Group, discusses the hot topic of the shortage of veterinary professionals and why there is a shortage in first place, and how virtual care can make a huge difference for pets and pet parents. We also discuss the notion of a mid-level professional, like a physician’s assistant in veterinary medicine: […]
Loretta Swit’s latest book, unique jewelry to celebrate and honor your pets, and more
June 04, 2023 11:43Lead sales enthusiast at Canopy Chicago Sarah Becker talks about how this dog friendly property, 226 W. Jackson Blvd. Wayne Read, CEO/President Forged & Formed, Inc. explains unique jewelry artisan keepsakes and customizable pet pieces which are available to honor or to celebrate your current four-legged family or dogs and cats who were once in your life, and […]
Celebrating Memorial Day and understanding what canine soldiers do
May 28, 2023 17:32Celebrating Memorial Day week with Chris Willingham, president of U.S. War Dogs Association. This amazing non-profit sends care packages to currently working military dogs (MWD) but there’s a special focus on retired MWD, who ultimately do require veterinary care which they support. Also discussed is a history of MWD, and what the canine soldiers do, and […]