The Pet Parent Hotline

What happens to working dogs after their service ends?

Most people don’t think about what happens to military and police dogs once they’re retired, but they deserve love, care, and sometimes, a reunion with the person they trusted most.

In this episode, I talk with Kristen Maurer from Mission K9 Rescue about how her team helps these canine heroes find peace, purpose, and permanent homes.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• How retired working dogs adjust to life after service
• Why reunions between dogs and former handlers are so emotionally powerful
• How you can support these heroes in their second chapter of life

This episode will leave you inspired, moved, and ready to take action for the dogs who’ve already given us so much.

CONNECT WITH KRISTEN MAURER
Website: https://missionk9rescue.org

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Donate to Mission K9 Rescue

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 show, same mission—just a name that fits better now.

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 feel like taking your dog out in public turns into chaos, side-eyes, and stress?

Most “bad dog” moments are really people problems, like using too much leash, missing body language cues, or pushing a dog into situations they’re not ready for yet.

In this episode, I talk with Nancy Hassel, founder of American Pet Professionals, about real-world dog etiquette, the kind that keeps your dog safer and makes everyone’s life easier, from your neighborhood walks to the vet to the park.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
 • The #1 mistake that causes most public dog drama, and how to fix it fast
 • What to watch for in body language, yours and your dog’s, before things escalate
 • How to handle tight spaces like vet lobbies and busy trails without conflict
 • Why dog parks go wrong, and smarter ways to socialize and train
 • Simple “ramp up” steps to help an excited dog earn bigger outings

If you want a dog who can actually go places with you without being “that dog owner,” this episode is your reset.

CONNECT WITH NANCY HASSEL
Instagram | American Pet Professionals

LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
Facebook | www.starlightoutreachandrescue.org

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
American Pet Professionals

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 show, same mission—just a name that fits better now.

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

Is your dog growling over food, toys, the couch, or even you? Resource guarding usually doesn’t start as a big, dramatic moment; it starts small, and most pet parents miss the early red flags until it escalates. Then the internet chimes in with advice that can make it worse fast.

In this episode, I’m joined by nationally recognized dog behavior and dog training expert Will Bangura, to break down what resource guarding really is, why it happens, and what to do next so you can handle it safely and stop it from growing into a bigger problem.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• The subtle signs of resource guarding most people miss
• Why some dogs develop guarding behaviors in the first place
• What to do, and what to avoid, when your dog guards food, toys, or people

CONNECT WITH WILL BANGURA
Website: dogbehaviorist.com
Training: phoenixdogtraining.com

Need a safe and reliable crate for your dog? Check out Impact Dog Crates - built to last a lifetime.

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 life is really like for a cat in a rescue or shelter?

In this behind-the-scenes episode, Amy Castro takes you through a day in the life of a rescue cat—from the moment they arrive to the moment they’re ready for a forever home. You’ll get an inside look at the challenges, the heartwarming milestones, and everything it takes to prepare these cats for adoption.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

• What rescue cats experience from intake to adoption day
• How behavior is assessed and how profiles are written to help them stand out
• Stories of transformation that prove what love and patience can do

CONNECT WITH AMY CASTRO
Website: amycastro.com

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Starlight Outreach and Rescue

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk in this episode. That was our original name—don’t worry, you’re in the right place.

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’s it really like for a dog living in a rescue or shelter?

In this eye-opening episode, Amy Castro is joined by Donna Ball of Ranger’s Reach to reveal what life is like for dogs inside a rescue—from intake and daily care to rehabilitation and adoption prep. You’ll hear the real, unfiltered stories of dogs working their way toward a second chance.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

• What a typical day looks like for a dog living in a rescue
• The medical, emotional, and behavioral support these dogs receive
• How community support, fostering, and volunteering make life better for dogs in care

CONNECT WITH RANGER’S REACH
Website: rangersreach.org

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Starlight Outreach and Rescue

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk in this episode. That was our original name—don’t worry, you’re in the right place.

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

Thinking about bringing home a bunny? Here’s what most people get wrong.

In this eye-opening episode, Amy Castro speaks with Marcy Berman, founder of Save a Bunny Rabbit Rescue, to reveal the often misunderstood truth about rabbits as pets. From spaying and neutering to behavioral quirks, medical needs, and the real cost of care, this episode is a must-listen for anyone considering adding a rabbit to their home—or wanting to better care for the one they already have.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

• Why rabbits are not low-maintenance or “starter” pets
• The serious health risks of skipping spay/neuter procedures
• How to tell if you’re truly ready to commit to a rabbit—and what to do instead if you’re not

CONNECT WITH SAVE A BUNNY RABBIT RESCUE
Website: saveabunny.org
Facebook: facebook.com/SaveABunny

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk in this episode. That was our original name—don’t worry, you’re in the right place.

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

Are you giving your pet everything they need to truly thrive?

In Part 2 of our series with UK veterinarian and animal welfare advocate Dr. Emma Milne, Amy Castro explores the final two of the five legally recognized pet welfare needs. These last two, companionship and the ability to express natural behavior, often go overlooked but have the greatest impact on your pet’s quality of life.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

• Why social connection (or solitude) matters depending on the species
• How preventing natural behaviors can lead to stress, boredom, and behavior problems
• What to ask yourself before bringing a new pet into your home
• Why focusing only on lifespan could be hurting your pet’s overall well-being

CONNECT WITH DR. EMMA MILNE
Website: https://www.emmathevet.co.uk/

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk in this episode. That was our original name—don’t worry, you’re in the right place.

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

Are you meeting all 5 of your pet’s welfare needs—or just the basics?

In this powerful first episode of a two-part series, Amy Castro teams up with renowned UK veterinarian and animal welfare advocate Dr. Emma Milne to explore the often-overlooked foundations of pet care. In this episode, they tackle the first three of the five legally recognized animal welfare needs and how they apply to everyday pet parenting.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

• What “proper nutrition” really means—and why most pet food isn’t enough
• How to prevent pain, illness, and injury through proactive care
• How to create an environment that supports your pet’s physical and emotional wellbeing

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll explore the final two needs: companionship and the ability to express natural behaviors.

CONNECT WITH DR. EMMA MILNE
Website: https://www.emmathevet.co.uk/

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk in this episode. That was our original name—don’t worry, you’re in the right place.

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

Want to be a better pet parent this year—but not sure where to start?

In this playful and practical kickoff to Season 2, Amy Castro and Bev share 10 powerful resolutions every pet parent should consider. Whether you’ve made your list or need a few fresh ideas, this episode offers simple, meaningful ways to improve your pet’s health, happiness, and everyday life.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

• How to create a proactive wellness plan with vet care, grooming, and hygiene
• Easy ways to boost your pet’s physical and mental health through play, training, and enrichment
• Why social time, safe spaces, and emergency plans matter more than you think

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk in this episode. That was our original name—don’t worry, you’re in the right place.

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

Hey there!
In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy

Wrapping up Season 1, Amy and Bev journey through your favorite episodes & theirs. We laughed, learned, and built a community around our love for pets. Looking ahead, Season 2 will bring even more enlightening content to support pet parents. We're not just here to guide you through the challenges of pet ownership; we're here to celebrate the joyous, tough, and funny sides of life with our animal companions. Join us as we continue this incredible journey, sharing stories and strategies to help create happier, healthier lives for pets and those who love them.

• Are You Feeding Your Pet the Right Food? 
• Top 20 Favorite Pet Products Every Pet Parent Must Have
• The Lifesaving Importance of Microchipping Your Pets
• Fostering Saves Lives: Why You Should Consider Becoming a Pet Foster
• The Truth About Service Dogs and How Fakes Hurt Everyone
• How a Passion for Pets Became a Pet Business With Impact
• Rescuing Kaiser: A Tale of Dedication, Recovery, and Love
• How to Choose the Right Shelter Dog for You
• Myths and Truths About Mutts and Purebred Dogs
• Navigating Pet Loss and Grief
• Optimizing Your Pet's Nutrition 
• Strategies and Insights for Finding a Lost Cat

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