Pets and Animals
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Not just pups this time: ‘Puppy Bowl’ embraces older dogs
Feb 05, 2026 12:21 pm - This year, Sunday’s Puppy Bowl isn’t just about puppies. Older dogs are getting some attention, too.
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Geneva pet rescue van crashed in Indiana with 63 animals on board. Here’s how locals came to the rescue
Feb 04, 2026 7:59 am - Starfish Animal Rescue travels to southeast Kentucky every other weekend to collect dogs and cats that would otherwise be abandoned or euthanized. But during a recent trip, it was the rescue that needed rescuing.
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Elgin High School hosts annual National Biodiversity Teach-InFeb 03, 2026 11:14 pm - The annual National Biodiversity Teach-In on Feb. 6-20, organized by environmental science students at Elgin High School, features webinars on various topics related to biodiversity and environmental protection.
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Cook County offering spay, neuter discounts for pets this monthFeb 02, 2026 1:51 pm - Cook County pet owners can bring their dogs and cats to participating veterinarians to receive up to a $40 discount on spay or neuter services this month.
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Groundhog Day in Woodstock: Willie predicts early spring, rest of region hopes he’s right
Feb 02, 2026 9:24 am - Woodstock Willie has had his say. He did not see his shadow on Monday morning, meaning an early spring.
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Hoffman Estates police dog back on duty after injuryFeb 01, 2026 4:32 pm - Hoffman Estates police dog Ajax is back on duty thanks to some skilled veterinarians and help from a national organization that assists law enforcement canines.
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‘Wily and Wild Animal Invaders’ webinar explores environmental impact of invasive wildlifeJan 29, 2026 1:31 pm - The University of Illinois Extension is hosting a free webinar, "Wild and Wily Animal Invaders," on March 19 to explore the history of non-native wildlife species in Illinois and efforts to protect local ecosystems and economy.
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Local wildlife groups team up for ‘In Search of Eagles’ on Feb. 7 along the Fox River ValleyJan 28, 2026 10:38 pm - Winter is one of the best times to observe bald eagles in the wild as they congregate to feed near open waters. “In Search of Eagles,” an outdoor event. will be held at four sites in the Fox River Valley on Saturday, Feb. 7.
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To clear ice and snow, there are rock salt alternatives that are safer for your pets and yard
Jan 27, 2026 4:13 pm - Rock salt is the cheapest and most commonly used product for melting ice and snow. But it's not great for the environment and it's not the most effective option out there.
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A groundhog robot? Woodstock won’t bow to PETA pressure to replace its woodchuck mascot
Jan 27, 2026 7:41 am - Woodstock Willie is set to make his annual prognostication on the next six weeks of weather early on Groundhog Day morning. However, the national animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is calling for the furry forecaster to be replaced by a 3D holographic projection, the costumed mascot, a stuffed toy, or even an AI-powered robot groundhog.