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BY JEAN STARR
Times Correspondent | Tuesday, October 10, 2006 | (No comments posted.)
When veterinarian Randi Olson agreed to co-host "All About Animals" on WVLP 98.3 FM radio, her goal was to help people and their pets. Now, almost a year after starting on the weekly show, Olson takes on all topics, including those introduced by co-host Shannon Wirick.
It's obvious Wirick is a fan of "Animal Stories," the popular radio show dreamed up in the 1970s by Larry Lujack and Tom "Little Tommy" Edwards.
Wirick's shock jock intro on the one-hour program often takes listeners for a dip into the sometimes chilling world of animals.
On a recent show, Wirick reported on the problems incurred in the Florida Everglades when former pet pythons are released by ignorant reptile fans. The report took a turn for the gross when she described how one of the huge snakes exploded mid-meal while attempting to snack on an adult alligator.
Olson segued into weight-loss methods for pets and the variety of health options for pets such as chiropractic, acupuncture and acupressure treatments.
"It's important for veterinary chiropractors to be licensed and certified," Olson said. Her research took her to veterinary Web sites where she is able to learn about the latest offerings in alternative therapies.
She told listeners that her clinic, Vale Park Animal Hospital offers some of the therapies.
Special guest on the show was Sweetie, Olson's 6-year-old French bulldog who panted, snuffled and grunted throughout the show as only a short-nosed breed can.
Olson and Wirick discuss anything related to pets, including the recent discovery in Peru of a pre-Columbian culture of dog lovers who had buried their pets with blankets and treats for the afterlife.
"It's wonderful to hear how far back the love of pets goes," Olson said. "It's heartwarming."
The show offers opportunities for pet owners to learn more about their pets just by listening, or calling in while the show airs at noon each Monday. Most of all, said Olson, the two hosts have fun.
Wirick announces that her dog, Diva, has a celebrity-sized wardrobe and enjoys dressing the miniature pinscher in the diminutive duds. Olson responded that, although she doesn't put clothing on her own pets, she isn't critical of those who do.
"I think it increases the human animal bond," she said.
The two got together when Olson appeared on Wirick's other WVLP radio show, "Spiritual Expressions." The subject of animals came up, and they learned that they each share the view that animals improve people's lives.
Volunteer engineer Josh McAfee arrives before the show each week to take care of the technical end, and often participates in the on-air discussion.
"He's working two part-time jobs instead of taking one that would have prevented him from volunteering at the station," Wirick said about McAfee.
Others in the studio are equally dedicated to the low frequency station.
What: "All About Animals"
When: Noon to 1 p.m. Mondays on WVLP FM 98.3.
FYI: Listeners can call in at (219) 476-9000, or e-mail questions to info@wvlp.org.
What: "All About Animals"
When: Noon to 1 p.m. Mondays on WVLP FM 98.3.
FYI: Listeners can call in at (219) 476-9000, or e-mail questions to info@wvlp.org.
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