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:

August 20, 2024Is It Really Separation Anxiety, Or Something Else?
Does your dog panic when you leave the house? You’re not alone—and you’re not stuck.
In this episode, I sit down with expert dog trainer Ruth Hegarty to break down one of the most misunderstood issues in dog behavior: separation anxiety. We cut through the myths, talk about what really helps, and give you practical steps you can start using today.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How to tell the difference between true separation anxiety and other behavior issues
Why early intervention matters more than you think
Ruth’s proven techniques for creating a calming routine and building your dog’s confidence
Whether your dog is barking, pacing, destroying furniture, or simply miserable when you're gone, this episode will give you the insight and tools to help them feel more secure—and give you some peace of mind too.
LEARN MORE ABOUT RUTH HEGARTY:
Creature Good Dog Training
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED:
EMBARK DNA Tests
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 fully embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same 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
August 13, 2024How to Afford Vet Care Without Breaking the Bank
Worried about the rising cost of caring for your pet? You’re not alone. With vet costs rising, more pet parents are realizing they need a better plan to handle both routine care and unexpected emergencies before the next bill hits.
In this episode, I sit down with Jonathan Wainberg, Senior VP of Synchrony Financial Services’ Pet Business, to talk about budgeting for pets, preparing for unexpected costs, and avoiding financial panic when your pet needs care most. From budgeting strategies to understanding pet insurance and CareCredit, Jonathan shares practical, no-fluff pet parent advice to help you make smarter decisions for your pet and your wallet.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• What most pet parents do not expect when it comes to veterinary healthcare costs
• How to budget for vet bills, including routine and emergency care
• Which tools, like insurance, credit lines, and nonprofit support, can ease financial pressure
You’ll also learn how breed-specific needs, strong vet relationships, and advance planning can help you stay ahead of costs, build a more realistic pet care plan, and give your pet the care they deserve without unnecessary stress.
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Read Synchrony’s Pet Lifetime of Care Study
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our original name before we fully 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
37min
August 06, 2024Want Your Pet to Live Longer? Start With These 5 Steps
What if your pet’s health problems aren’t the real problem—but just the symptoms?
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Marlene Siegel, a leading voice in bioregulatory veterinary medicine. She shares her holistic, root-cause approach to extending your pet’s life and improving their day-to-day well-being. From food and water to detox and emotional health, Dr. Siegel’s five-step system challenges what most pet parents think they know about pet care.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
Why inflammation is often the real root of chronic disease
How species-appropriate diets and clean water support long-term wellness
What role toxins, environment, and emotional balance play in your pet’s health
If you’re tired of chasing symptoms and ready to take a more informed, preventive approach, this episode will help you start making changes that matter.
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Learn more about Dr. Siegel: www.drmarlenesiegel.com
Courses and free e-book: www.transformingvetmedicine.com
SPECIAL OFFER:
The first 10 people who purchase Dr. Siegel’s Pet Parent Course, post a photo of their receipt on Instagram, and tag @drmarlenesiegel using #starlight will receive a free 15-minute online consult.
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 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
56min
July 30, 2024Why Being Around Pets Makes You Healthier
You don’t even have to own a pet to benefit from one.
In this episode, I sit down with psychologist and communication coach Dr. Denise M. Dudley to explore the powerful ways pets improve our emotional and physical health. Whether you’re living with a dog, cat, or just spending time around animals, you’ll learn why their presence is more than comforting. It’s healing.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How pets reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and boost mood
Why pets are powerful tools against loneliness and isolation
How animals help us build stronger social connections and spark creativity
From hormonal changes to meaningful companionship, this episode dives into the science and heart behind why animals make us feel more human.
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
52min
July 23, 2024Dog Training: Fix The 5 Biggest Behavior Problems
Tired of your dog barking nonstop, pulling on the leash, or your dog chewing everything in sight?
In this episode, I’m joined by dog training expert Ruth Hegarty to break down the most common behavior problems pet parents face and dog training tips to help fix them using positive, effective methods. From recall issues to destructive chewing, Ruth shares practical dog training strategies that work for real-life households.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
Why your dog pulls on the leash or barks excessively
Simple ways to improve recall and reduce jumping or your dog chewing everything in sight!
How to make dog training part of your daily routine
Why understanding your dog’s breed and personality makes all the difference
If your dog’s behavior is driving you up the wall and you've run out of dog training tips that work, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on and how to turn things around, without stress or punishment.
LEARN MORE FROM RUTH HEGARTY:
Dog Training Programs
Free Resource Library
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.
LOOKING FOR A GREAT CRATE? I focused on benefits in this episode, but one of my top picks is Impact Dog Crates. They’re an investment, but built to last a lifetime of safety and security for your dog.
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
54min
July 16, 2024How to Build a Dog-Friendly Community That Works
Want your town or workplace to be more dog-friendly? Here’s how to make it happen.
In this episode, I talk with Beth Miller, founder of Wagtown Consulting, about what it really takes to build communities that welcome and support dogs—and the people who love them. Beth shares her mission to transform neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces into more inclusive, dog-centric environments with lasting impact.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
What defines a truly dog-friendly community
Why community buy-in and leadership support are key to lasting change
How to assess local needs and create actionable plans
Resources Wagtown offers to help you get started in your own city or workplace
Whether you’re a pet lover, a community organizer, or just want to make your town more welcoming to dogs, this episode will give you the tools and inspiration to create change.
LEARN MORE ABOUT WAGTOWN:
Website: www.wagtown.org
Contact Beth directly: [email protected]
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 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
July 09, 2024 Why Your Adoption Was Denied: 10 Reasons Shelters Say No
Think you’re ready to adopt a pet? You might want to double-check. In this candid episode, Amy breaks down 10 common reasons adoption applications get denied, and most people have no idea they’re raising concerns.
Drawing from 15 years in rescue and sheltering, Amy shares the subtle signals that make a rescue pause. These aren’t the obvious deal-breakers like animal hoarding or a history of abuse. This is the stuff well-meaning adopters accidentally say or do that screams, “This might not be the right fit.”
What You’ll Learn:
✔️ Why “I just want a dog that’s good with kids” can backfire
✔️ The real reason your “perfect setup” can still get a no
✔️ How overconfidence, unrealistic expectations, or vague answers can tank an application
✔️ Why “I work from home” isn’t always the golden ticket
✔️ What rescues look for that signals you’re ready for lifelong pet parenting
This episode gets you inside the mind of a rescue decision-maker, so you can apply smarter, avoid common missteps, and set both you and the pet up to win.
Listen now and make sure you’re actually ready before you hit submit.
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
24min
July 02, 2024 Want Your Pet in Your Wedding? Listen to this First
Thinking about having your dog or cat walk down the aisle on your big day?
Many couples dream of including their pets in their wedding without realizing just how much planning it takes to keep everyone calm, safe, and comfortable.
This episode breaks it all down—from what roles pets can realistically play to how to decide whether it's even a good idea for your particular pet.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
✔️ What to consider before letting your pet be part of your ceremony
✔️ The most popular (and safest) ways to include pets in weddings
✔️ Creative alternatives if your pet can’t attend but still deserves the spotlight
Whether your pet is walking down the aisle, posing for photos, or simply celebrated in spirit, this episode will help you make the day memorable for both humans and animals.
When you finish listening, I'd love to hear your biggest takeaway from today’s episode. Send us a message or join us in the Pet Parent Hotline FB Insiders Group

CONNECT WITH NICOLE ETTENHOFER
Instagram: @georgestreetphoto | www.georgestreetphoto.com
LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
www.petparenthotline.com
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Mention the Muddy Paws and Hairballs podcast when booking with George Street and get $600 off the Love Captured Package.
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
June 25, 2024 Are You Prepared to Protect Your Pet in a Disaster?
If disaster strikes, would you know how to protect your pets?
Too many pet parents wait until it’s too late to make a plan. Whether it’s a wildfire, hurricane, or sudden evacuation, your pet’s safety depends on your preparedness.
In this episode, Amy talks with Roxana Petzold from the American Red Cross to break down exactly what you need to do to prepare your pets before an emergency happens.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
✔️ What to pack in a pet emergency go-bag
✔️ Why microchipping and up-to-date records could save your pet’s life
✔️ How to build a pet safety plan that actually works when disaster hits
Don’t wait for a warning siren to get ready. This episode will help you take action now to protect the pets you love.
When you finish listening, I'd love to hear your biggest takeaway from today’s episode. Take a screenshot of you listening on your device, share it to your Instagram stories and tag me, @YOURSOCIALHANDLE!
While you’re there, make sure you follow me on Instagram so you can see behind the scenes of how I [help pet parents stay prepared and stress-free] and how you can too.
CONNECT WITH ROXANA PETZOLD
Facebook: @RedCross | www.redcross.org
LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
Instagram: @YOURSOCIALHANDLE | www.starlightpettalk.com
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
American Red Cross Pet Preparedness Resources
Pet First Aid App (Free in your app store)
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 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
44min
June 18, 2024 Baby On The Way? Start Prepping Your Dog Now
Are you pregnant and wondering how your dog will handle the change?
A lot of pet parents wait until the baby is home to “see how it goes,” and that’s when stress and behavior issues show up fast.
This episode is about what to do now, while you still have time, so your dog feels steady, not blindsided, when life changes overnight.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:
✔️ Why the biggest problem is often mixed signals between adults, not a “bad dog”
✔️ The early stress signs most people miss, and what they look like in real life
✔️ Simple ways to build calm, confidence, and safety before baby arrives
Listen now so you’re not trying to fix this on two hours of sleep.
CONNECT WITH AILEEN CRONIN
Instagram: @babypackleader | Website: www.babypackleader.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 name that fits better.
LOOKING FOR A GREAT CRATE? I focused on benefits in this episode, but one of my top picks is Impact Dog Crates. They’re an investment, but built to last a lifetime of safety and security for your dog.
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 3min

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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