The Pet Parent Hotline

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.

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

The Pet Parent Hotline covers real-world dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, veterinary decisions, pet-care costs, aging pets, and everyday 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

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.

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

The Pet Parent Hotline covers real-world dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, veterinary decisions, pet-care costs, aging pets, and everyday 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

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.

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

The Pet Parent Hotline covers real-world dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, veterinary decisions, pet-care costs, aging pets, and everyday 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

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.

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

The Pet Parent Hotline covers real-world dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, veterinary decisions, pet-care costs, aging pets, and everyday 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

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.

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

The Pet Parent Hotline covers real-world dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, veterinary decisions, pet-care costs, aging pets, and everyday 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

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.

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

The Pet Parent Hotline covers real-world dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, veterinary decisions, pet-care costs, aging pets, and everyday 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

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.

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

The Pet Parent Hotline covers real-world dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, veterinary decisions, pet-care costs, aging pets, and everyday 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

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.

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

The Pet Parent Hotline covers real-world dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, veterinary decisions, pet-care costs, aging pets, and everyday 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

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.

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

The Pet Parent Hotline covers real-world dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, veterinary decisions, pet-care costs, aging pets, and everyday 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

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.

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

The Pet Parent Hotline covers real-world dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, veterinary decisions, pet-care costs, aging pets, and everyday 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