Because we all could use a hero, the inspiration for this year’s Creature Comforts cover is the supercanine companion from the Superman franchise, in particular this summer’s Supergirl movie (“Krypto the Superdog,” pg. 12). When interviewing the folks at Saving Hope rescue for a story in this issue, we found the perfect coverboy and Krypto stunt double: Roger. This happy pup and Veronica, a beagle who survived a research lab (“Aledo 10,” pg. 9), are both looking for someone to take them up, up, and away from the kind caregivers at Saving Hope to a forever home.
Sweet Roger is a medium, mixed-bred almost-3-year-old looking for his forever best friend. This loyal snuggle lover is the best adventure buddy around! He loves going on long walks, runs, and hikes. He listens very well to commands, learns routines quickly, and has all the love to give. He prefers to be by your side as much as possible. Lauren Anton, Saving Hope director, says he’s high-energy and would do best in a family setting — he loves playing with dogs, cats, and kids. Roger is completely house-trained. He also has been neutered and is current with all his vaccines.
“He’s a heeler mix, so he loves to herd you or another dog,” she said. “He loves his people!”
Of course he does because pets represent love in its purist form: no judgment, no attitude, no holding back. Just 100% give, give, give. This kind of bond is just one of many reasons we do this special issue every year around this time. Other reasons? Well, there’s so many, like adding new furry, feathered, or scaly family members (“Creatures of the Night (and Day),” pg. 11), following one local woman making award-winning music while training and trick-riding horses (but not at the same time) (“Cowgirl Culture,” pg. 21), ensuring that our animals and ourselves are vaccinated against rabies (“Creature (Dis-)Comforts,” pg. 5), and so much more, including celebrating animals (real and mythical) that we all love but definitely do not want as pets (“Go-Go Gorillas,” pg. 8; “New African Fish Eagle,” pg. 7; “House of the Drag-On,” pg. 13).
We hope you enjoy our annual special issue and, more importantly, find it useful. — Anthony Mariani (Editor-in-Chief) and Jennifer Bovee (Special Projects)
INSIDE CREATURE COMFORTS
What’s what inside our annual animal-oriented issue? Glad you asked! A bit about that below:
COVER // Krypto the Superdog
From comics to movies, Krypto the Superdog has become a fan-favorite in DC’s universe. Explore his history, powers, and rising popularity on screen. Read how he’s stealing the spotlight again here.
FEATURE // African Fish Eagle
A rare African fish eagle chick has hatched at Fort Worth Zoo—the first in its history. Learn how keepers made this groundbreaking moment possible here.
FEATURE // The Aledo 10
Ten beagles rescued from a Wisconsin lab are finding new lives in North Texas. Meet the Aledo 10—and learn how to adopt Veronica, still waiting, here.
FEATURE 3 // Go Go Gorillas
Read about Gus and Bukavu, two young gorillas from the Fort Worth Zoo who relocated to the St. Louis Zoo to join a bachelor group, supporting long-term conservation efforts here.
STUFF // Becoming Superfrog
Go behind the scenes of TCU’s SuperFrog mascot. Discover what it takes to wear the suit, the secrets, and catch up with some of the former student mascots here.
SCREEN // House of the Drag-On
House of the Dragon Season 3 draws criticism for slow pacing and heavy dialogue. Here’s why some fans are losing interest despite its epic moments.
CALENDAR // Night & Day
Discover the top animal-themed events in Fort Worth, from zoo visits and dog-friendly festivals to pet adoptions and family attractions here.
CALENDAR // Big Ticket // The Cozy Catfe:
Read about visiting this spot in Arlington to meet adoptable cats while enjoying yoga, art nights, and live events here. A cozy, feel-good experience for animal lovers.
EATS & DRINKS // After ‘While Crocodile
A family trip to Rainforest Cafe Grapevine brings back childhood memories, but long waits and disappointing food make this animal-themed restaurant a mixed experience in this review.
MUSIC // Cowgirl Culture
Burleson’s Kristyn Harris blends Western Swing, ranching, and trick riding into a cinematic lifestyle. Discover her music, horses, and award-winning career here.
LAST CALL // Meet Miss Addie
Meet Acre Distilling Co.’s beloved distillery dog and the inspiration behind Miss Addie’s Blackberry Sage Tea Vodka here, and discover this unique Fort Worth spirit and cocktail recipes to try at home.
ICYMI // Cover-to-Cover Flipbook
Did you miss your chance to pick up Creature Comforts 2026 in the stands? No worries. We’ve got you covered. To see this special issue page by page, click here.
