The Pet Parent Hotline

By Amy Castro - Pet Parenting Expert & Animal Rescuer

You love your pets. But sometimes, living with them is a lot.

From dog and cat behavior and training struggles to pet health, nutrition, vet decisions, rising costs, aging p

... more

4.9

4141 ratings

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FAQs about The Pet Parent Hotline:

How many episodes does The Pet Parent Hotline have?

The podcast currently has 192 episodes available.

The Pet Parent Hotline episodes:

October 29, 2024Zoomies: The Dog Park That’s Redefining Pet Community and Safety
What if your local dog park wasn’t just a place to play—but a thriving community built for both pets and people?
In this episode, I talk with Ramy Saleh, CEO of Zoomies Dog Park, about how he’s reshaping the dog park experience from the ground up. From behavior assessments and vaccination requirements to play zones and social events, Zoomies is setting a new standard for safe, enriching spaces where dogs and humans connect.
Ramy shares his personal journey from Cairo to Houston and explains how his love for dogs inspired a bigger mission—to build a true community hub that’s as much for people as it is for pets.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
Why Zoomies’ behavior assessments and members-only system create a safer park experience
The thoughtful design elements that support canine instincts and human comfort
How dog parks can become powerful community spaces that go beyond fetch and frisbees
From workshops to partnerships with rescues, Zoomies is on a mission to make dog ownership easier, more connected, and more joyful for everyone involved.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ZOOMIES DOG PARK:
www.zoomiesparks.com
SHOUTOUTS IN THIS EPISODE:
KG Barbeque, Austin, Texas
Concept Neighborhood
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our previous name before we leaned into the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content, just a better fit now.
Stuck on a pet problem? Send it here.
Support the show
Practical pet advice for busy pet parents.
Love the show? Follow The Pet Parent Hotline so you don’t miss an episode, and share this one with a pet parent who needs it.
Listen & Follow: 🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify
Each week, get practical help with dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, vet decisions, rising pet-care costs, aging pets, and the everyday challenges of life with animals.
No fluff. No guilt. Just useful advice to help you make smarter decisions and enjoy life with your pets.
Help us reach more pet parents like you: A 5-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts helps new listeners feel confident trying us out.
Contact: [email protected]
©Ⓟ 2026 Amy Castro
...more
39min
October 22, 2024How Rescue Dog Wines Is Saving Lives One Bottle at a Time
What if every bottle of wine you opened also helped save a rescue dog’s life?
In this episode, I talk with Blair Lott, co-founder of Rescue Dog Wines, about how he and his wife Laura turned their passion for wine into a mission-driven business that gives back to animal rescue efforts nationwide.
From a successful music career to a new life in Northern California’s wine country, Blair shares how they built a brand that blends quality winemaking with deep purpose—and how each bottle sold supports shelters and rescue groups across the U.S.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How Blair and Laura use their business to fund real animal welfare work
What it takes to run a mission-first winery and navigate the world of wine legislation
Why fostering pets changed their lives and how it might change yours too
You’ll also hear a sneak peek at what’s ahead, including Rescue Dog Month initiatives, natural disaster support campaigns, and even a possible new cat-themed wine line. This episode is filled with inspiration for anyone who loves pets, rescue dogs, wine, or making a difference.
LEARN MORE ABOUT RESCUE DOG WINES:
www.rescuedogwines.com
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our previous name before we embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content, just a better fit now.
Stuck on a pet problem? Send it here.
Support the show
Practical pet advice for busy pet parents.
Love the show? Follow The Pet Parent Hotline so you don’t miss an episode, and share this one with a pet parent who needs it.
Listen & Follow: 🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify
Each week, get practical help with dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, vet decisions, rising pet-care costs, aging pets, and the everyday challenges of life with animals.
No fluff. No guilt. Just useful advice to help you make smarter decisions and enjoy life with your pets.
Help us reach more pet parents like you: A 5-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts helps new listeners feel confident trying us out.
Contact: [email protected]
©Ⓟ 2026 Amy Castro
...more
27min
October 15, 2024Dog Training: Why “Don’t Train Your Dog” Might Be The Best Advice
What if the dog training methods you've learned are creating more problems than they're fixing?
In this episode, I speak with Angie Winters, author of "Don't Train Your Dog," about why traditional dog training tips and methods often fall short and what to do instead. Drawing from over 20 years of experience in dog rehabilitation and parenting, Angie shares how forming an emotional bond and setting clear expectations can lead to better behavior than dog training based on fear or bribery ever could.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
Why understanding your dog’s emotional needs matters more than teaching traditional dog training commands
How parenting principles like leadership, boundaries, and emotional neutrality translate to dogs
Practical ways to guide your dog with calm authority and deeper connection
If you’ve ever felt like regular dog training and dog training tips weren't working for you, or if you're raising a “difficult” dog, this conversation will help you rethink everything and give you the tools to create a more respectful, peaceful relationship.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ANGIE WINTERS:
Website: parenting4dogs.com
Book: Don’t Train Your Dog on Amazon
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our previous name before we fully embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same great content—just with a name that fits.
Stuck on a pet problem? Send it here.
Support the show
Practical pet advice for busy pet parents.
Love the show? Follow The Pet Parent Hotline so you don’t miss an episode, and share this one with a pet parent who needs it.
Listen & Follow: 🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify
Each week, get practical help with dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, vet decisions, rising pet-care costs, aging pets, and the everyday challenges of life with animals.
No fluff. No guilt. Just useful advice to help you make smarter decisions and enjoy life with your pets.
Help us reach more pet parents like you: A 5-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts helps new listeners feel confident trying us out.
Contact: [email protected]
©Ⓟ 2026 Amy Castro
...more
47min
October 08, 2024What It’s Really Like to Be an Animal Rescuer
Ever wondered what it’s really like to dedicate your life to saving animals?
In this special episode, I’m the guest on The Story of My Pet podcast, hosted by Julie Marty-Pearson. I share my journey from a childhood encounter with a feral cat named Snippy to founding Starlight Outreach and Rescue and committing my life to animal rescue.
This conversation offers a raw, honest look at the emotional weight, daily chaos, and deep joy that come with being an animal rescuer.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
What inspired me to start Starlight Outreach and Rescue
The challenges and rewards of fostering, including how to care for abandoned kittens
The emotional toll of rescue work—and why we keep showing up anyway
Whether you’re in the rescue world or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this episode will give you an inside look at the sacrifices, passion, and grit it takes to be a rescuer.
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our original name before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content, new name that fits.
Stuck on a pet problem? Send it here.
Support the show
Practical pet advice for busy pet parents.
Love the show? Follow The Pet Parent Hotline so you don’t miss an episode, and share this one with a pet parent who needs it.
Listen & Follow: 🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify
Each week, get practical help with dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, vet decisions, rising pet-care costs, aging pets, and the everyday challenges of life with animals.
No fluff. No guilt. Just useful advice to help you make smarter decisions and enjoy life with your pets.
Help us reach more pet parents like you: A 5-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts helps new listeners feel confident trying us out.
Contact: [email protected]
©Ⓟ 2026 Amy Castro
...more
44min
October 01, 2024How Smart Is Your Dog Really? What Science Says
Ever wonder what your dog is thinking—or how much they really understand?
In this episode, I talk with Jennifer S. Holland, New York Times bestselling author of Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence. We explore the fascinating science behind canine cognition, from their superpowered sense of smell to how they adapt to our routines, emotions, and environments.
You’ll walk away with a new appreciation for just how intelligent and emotionally attuned your dog truly is.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How dogs use scent to interpret the world and even detect human emotion
Why intelligence isn’t about breed—it’s about the bond and environment
The subtle signals your dog is using to communicate with you every day
We also discuss how life changes like moving, routine shifts, or early training experiences impact your dog’s behavior—and what you can do to better support their development.
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Buy Dog Smart
Connect with Jennifer S. Holland
EMBARK DNA Tests
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our previous name before we embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content—just a name that fits.
Stuck on a pet problem? Send it here.
Support the show
Practical pet advice for busy pet parents.
Love the show? Follow The Pet Parent Hotline so you don’t miss an episode, and share this one with a pet parent who needs it.
Listen & Follow: 🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify
Each week, get practical help with dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, vet decisions, rising pet-care costs, aging pets, and the everyday challenges of life with animals.
No fluff. No guilt. Just useful advice to help you make smarter decisions and enjoy life with your pets.
Help us reach more pet parents like you: A 5-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts helps new listeners feel confident trying us out.
Contact: [email protected]
©Ⓟ 2026 Amy Castro
...more
41min
September 24, 2024The Festival That Honors Pets and People Who Love Them
What makes a community celebration truly unforgettable? Love—and pets.
In this episode, I talk with Father Justin Briggle of Good Shepherd Episcopal Church about the story behind Harvest PawFest, a joyful festival created to honor the deep bond between pets and their people.
Originally an Oktoberfest-style event, Harvest PawFest has grown into a heartwarming community tradition centered on animal blessings, family fun, and the unique connection we share with our pets.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How one local event became a meaningful celebration of animals and togetherness
The planning, stories, and surprises behind pet blessings—from dogs to hedgehogs
Why community events like this create stronger bonds between people and pets
This episode is filled with warmth, laughter, and thoughtful moments that will make you appreciate the role pets play in connecting us all. Whether you're an animal lover or a community builder, you’ll walk away inspired.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HARVEST PAWFEST:
Harvest PawFest on Facebook
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our original name before we embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content, just a name that fits.
Stuck on a pet problem? Send it here.
Support the show
Practical pet advice for busy pet parents.
Love the show? Follow The Pet Parent Hotline so you don’t miss an episode, and share this one with a pet parent who needs it.
Listen & Follow: 🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify
Each week, get practical help with dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, vet decisions, rising pet-care costs, aging pets, and the everyday challenges of life with animals.
No fluff. No guilt. Just useful advice to help you make smarter decisions and enjoy life with your pets.
Help us reach more pet parents like you: A 5-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts helps new listeners feel confident trying us out.
Contact: [email protected]
©Ⓟ 2026 Amy Castro
...more
29min
September 17, 2024Plastic Pet Bowls And Toys: Hidden Dangers And Health Risks
Could your pet’s toys, bowls, food bags, or even clothes be adding plastic exposure that builds up over time?
In this episode, I’m joined by Aidan Charron from EARTHDAY.ORG to unpack the Pets vs Plastics report and why plastic is not just an environmental issue, it’s a pet health issue. We break down how plastics and additive chemicals can enter your pet’s body (even through chewing and licking), why oversight in pet products and pet food can be shockingly weak, and the easiest swaps that reduce exposure without making pet care complicated or expensive.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How microplastics and additive chemicals can affect pets over time (including endocrine disruption)
Why plastic bowls and heavily chewed toys are a bigger deal than most people realize
Simple switches like stainless steel or ceramic bowls, plus safer toy material ideas
Where to read the full Pets vs Plastics report, and how to push
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Read the Pets vs Plastics Report – EarthDay.org
TruthAboutPetFood.org – Learn what’s really in your pet’s food
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our original name before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content—just a name that fits better.
Stuck on a pet problem? Send it here.
Support the show
Practical pet advice for busy pet parents.
Love the show? Follow The Pet Parent Hotline so you don’t miss an episode, and share this one with a pet parent who needs it.
Listen & Follow: 🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify
Each week, get practical help with dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, vet decisions, rising pet-care costs, aging pets, and the everyday challenges of life with animals.
No fluff. No guilt. Just useful advice to help you make smarter decisions and enjoy life with your pets.
Help us reach more pet parents like you: A 5-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts helps new listeners feel confident trying us out.
Contact: [email protected]
©Ⓟ 2026 Amy Castro
...more
40min
September 10, 2024What Happens to Pets When Military Pet Parents Deploy?
What happens to a pet when their military family is suddenly deployed?
In this episode, I talk with Alisa Sieber-Johnson, co-founder of Dogs on Deployment, a nonprofit that connects military members and first responders with volunteer pet boarders across the country.
Born out of her own experience as a dual-military family with no options for pet care, Alisa turned a personal challenge into a national movement—ensuring no pet has to be surrendered due to deployment.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How Dogs on Deployment supports military families through fostering and financial aid
Why volunteers are the heart of the program—and how you can help
The inspiring story of a Marine pilot turned passionate pet foster
This episode is a powerful reminder of how community, compassion, and smart systems can come together to protect the human–animal bond, even in the most uncertain circumstances.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DOGS ON DEPLOYMENT:
Website: www.dogsondeployment.org
Facebook: DogsonDeployment
X: @DogsonDeploymnt
Instagram: @dogsondeployment
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we decided to fully embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content, just with a name that fits better.
Stuck on a pet problem? Send it here.
Support the show
Practical pet advice for busy pet parents.
Love the show? Follow The Pet Parent Hotline so you don’t miss an episode, and share this one with a pet parent who needs it.
Listen & Follow: 🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify
Each week, get practical help with dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, vet decisions, rising pet-care costs, aging pets, and the everyday challenges of life with animals.
No fluff. No guilt. Just useful advice to help you make smarter decisions and enjoy life with your pets.
Help us reach more pet parents like you: A 5-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts helps new listeners feel confident trying us out.
Contact: [email protected]
©Ⓟ 2026 Amy Castro
...more
50min
September 03, 2024How Business Partnerships Help Rescues Save More Pets
What if helping animals could also grow your business?
In this special crossover episode, I’m interviewed by Eliza Burr on Off the Leash with the Pet Business Coach. We dive into what makes a partnership between a pet business and an animal rescue not only possible, but powerful.
You’ll hear practical strategies for building collaborations that serve both your mission and your bottom line—without sacrificing one for the other.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How to approach rescues with a win-win partnership proposal
Why alignment, professionalism, and formal agreements are critical
How businesses and rescues can drive real impact through social media, events, and merchandise
Whether you're a petpreneur looking to stand out or a rescue leader ready to grow, this episode will show you how collaboration can fuel purpose, profit, and real change for animals in need.
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
The Pet Business Coach – Coaching and services for pet-based entrepreneurs
Starlight Outreach and Rescue
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our original name before we embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content—just a name that fits better.
Stuck on a pet problem? Send it here.
Support the show
Practical pet advice for busy pet parents.
Love the show? Follow The Pet Parent Hotline so you don’t miss an episode, and share this one with a pet parent who needs it.
Listen & Follow: 🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify
Each week, get practical help with dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, vet decisions, rising pet-care costs, aging pets, and the everyday challenges of life with animals.
No fluff. No guilt. Just useful advice to help you make smarter decisions and enjoy life with your pets.
Help us reach more pet parents like you: A 5-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts helps new listeners feel confident trying us out.
Contact: [email protected]
©Ⓟ 2026 Amy Castro
...more
31min
August 27, 2024Rehoming Bonnie: 1,672 Miles to a Forever Home
What happens when you hit the road with a rescue dog, and everything goes wrong?
In this episode, I share the story of my 1,672-mile journey from Texas to New York with my best friend Bev and a sweet rescue dog named Bonnie. From a hurricane reroute to car trouble, sketchy hotel rooms, and a surprise stop in Memphis during Elvis Week, this adoption road trip was anything but smooth, but absolutely unforgettable.
And yes, buried in the chaos are some real pet travel tips you can steal for your own long-distance trip.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• What it really takes to rehome rescue dogs hundreds of miles away
• How to manage a pet’s anxiety and well-being during long-distance travel
• Why flexibility, humor, and a little luck matter when transporting rescue dogs
• Practical pet travel tips we learned the hard way, so you don’t have to
We also give a shoutout to Dr. Linda Atkins from Valley Cottage Animal Hospital, who helped us ensure Bonnie’s transition was medically sound and emotionally supportive. With stories from Gettysburg, Valley Forge, and more, this episode is packed with adventure, heart, and the real-life side of rescue transport.
SHOUTOUTS IN THIS EPISODE:
Valley Cottage Animal Hospital
TripAdvisor
Chrysler Pacifica
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we fully embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content—just with a name that fits better.
Stuck on a pet problem? Send it here.
Support the show
Practical pet advice for busy pet parents.
Love the show? Follow The Pet Parent Hotline so you don’t miss an episode, and share this one with a pet parent who needs it.
Listen & Follow: 🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify
Each week, get practical help with dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, vet decisions, rising pet-care costs, aging pets, and the everyday challenges of life with animals.
No fluff. No guilt. Just useful advice to help you make smarter decisions and enjoy life with your pets.
Help us reach more pet parents like you: A 5-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts helps new listeners feel confident trying us out.
Contact: [email protected]
©Ⓟ 2026 Amy Castro
...more
1h 2min

FAQs about The Pet Parent Hotline:

How many episodes does The Pet Parent Hotline have?

The podcast currently has 192 episodes available.

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