Syd is personally and professionally stunned by a malpractice suit brought on by a high-risk pregnancy patient (guest star Ashley Johnson) and in turn questions her recent decision to end therapy sessions with Dr. Dunseith (guest star Isabella Hofmann). In the meantime, Joanie and Phil (guest star Dan Montgomery) go rock wall climbing as platonic friends, but soon realize that the tension between them isn't just in the ropes. Jim begins an independent living program at the rehab center and can return to work at the vet clinic part-time if Sam (guest star Cress Williams) shadows him. Meanwhile, Jim uses a pet kitten to help his friend Meredith (guest star Marcia Srassman) realize that she never has to live alone. And something is cooking at O'Neill's when Robbie creates a salad dressing that inadvertently induces labor pains in pregnant customers. Amid the expectant customers, Tina (Maria Pitillo) suspects she may be pregnant herself.