Ep 22. The Way of the Dog

In The Simpsons season 31 episode 22, titled "The Way of the Dog," the family welcomes a new furry member, a greyhound named Santa's Little Helper's love-interest. However, when Santa's Little Helper runs away with his new girlfriend, the family must navigate a world of dog racing to bring their beloved pet home. Along the way, they encounter a host of colorful characters, both canine and human, and discover the highs and lows of the sport.

The episode is a heartwarming tribute to the bond between humans and their pets, as well as a commentary on the darker side of animal racing. It highlights the dangers of putting profit over the welfare of animals and pushes the idea that animal racing should be banned altogether.

Throughout the episode, we see the family's determination to rescue Santa's Little Helper and bring him back home. Along the way, they deal with seedy dog-racing individuals and encounter other greyhounds forced to participate in the races. The animation style of The Simpsons is as vibrant as ever in the episode, with the canine characters bringing a fresh energy to the show.

The voice work in "The Way of the Dog" is top-notch, with returning cast members such as Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, and Nancy Cartwright delivering their trademark humor and heart. The guest stars for the episode also do a fantastic job, with Cate Blanchett voicing the girlfriend to Santa's Little Helper.

Overall, The Simpsons season 31 episode 22 is a must-watch for fans of the long-running animated show. It delivers laughs and heart in equal measure and brings a fresh perspective to an age-old topic. The episode is a testament to the continued relevance and impact of The Simpsons and proves why it has remained a cultural touchstone for over three decades.