Chicago River Canine Cruise, Raising Money for Homeless Dogs and Cats


September 7, 2026 • • • •

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Charlie Propsom is the founder of Friends of Chicago Animal Care & Control (FCACC).

HERE on Steve Dale’s Other World listen as Propsom explains what this non-profit does to support the City’s municipal facility, and why that is so important for homeless animals. FCACC has over the years provided equipment otherwise not budgeted for (such as washers/dryers for the shelter when unexpectedly some broke down) to providing emergency veterinary care overnight and much more.

FCACC is dependent on dollars via donations. On September 23 FCACC and Chicago’s First Lady are hosting a dog-friendly Chicago River ride, which includes some architecture narration and an opportunity for social dogs to meet new friends.  The vessel docks on the Southeast corner of Michigan Ave and Wacker Dr. Admission is $50 for people, and social dogs are $10 each. Boards at 5:30 PM. Departs at 6 PM. Returns to the dock at 7:30 PM. Light snacks will be served and some entertainment as well. and I will auction off a few copies of my latest book, Ask the Dog, which I can sign. Tickets purchased HERE.

We also discuss the Canine Cruise, which all began on my WGN Radio program, around 20 years ago.

Also discussed is the PAWS Chicago diversion program, which helps out – so many pets aren’t being given up.

Adopt-a-Pet Week

Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) is excited to once again celebrate Adopt Local: Adopt Local Week, September 8–13, with adoption fees waived for all pets throughout the week and a special Adopt Local adoption event on Sunday, September 13, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Chicago Animal Care & Control, 2741 S. Western Ave.
Launched last year following recognition by the Chicago City Council, Adopt Local Week shines a spotlight on the dogs and cats waiting at Chicago’s municipal shelter and encourages Chicagoans to consider adopting locally.
Of course, all adopted animals are spay/neutered, “Adopt Local Week is an opportunity to remind Chicagoans that their next family member may be waiting right here at their city shelter,” said Susan Cappello, Executive Director of CACC. “Every adoption changes two lives; the animal going home and the animal who now has a space available when they need us.”