For many children, dressing up, going door to door and yelling 'trick or treat!' until the pillow sack is filled to the brim with candy is one of the highlights of year. But for kids who are battling serious illnesses, like the guests at Ronald McDonald House on East 73rd Street in Manhattan, Halloween is one of those rare days when they can put their illness to the side and concentrate on the important business of being a kid.

"Pets In the City" spoke with Chaplain Cherilyn Frei, director of family support at Ronald Mc Donald House New York City, as she was preparing for a special Halloween celebration with the kids and the therapy dogs that frequent RMD House, including many dogs that have retired from life in the purebred dog show ring. This year, the kids and the dogs will be having a 'mini-parade' up First Avenue from 73rd Street to 80th Street--come out and cheer them on! Tune in to this week's show to find out more, including Chaplain Frei's thoughts on why some healthcare and other facilities may use purebred therapy dogs versus mixed-breed therapy dogs--all of which, she says, are equally wonderful.
 
This Week’s “Pets In the City” Giveaway:  The city never sleeps, and neither do ‘Pets In the City’ listeners! The first  three lucky listeners who contact us with a photo of their city pet will win  a Pat Bay International  Reflective Collar and Leash Sleeve set. Wear these at night and the Space Station will see you! (http://www.patbayreflective.com)

Questions or Comments? Send them to: diane@petliferadio.com.