The Pet Parent Hotline

By Amy Castro - Pet Parenting Expert & Animal RescuerEducation Self-Improvement Kids & Family How To Pets & Animals

The Pet Parent Hotline episodes

October 17, 2023Pawlytics: How Lizz Whitacre Built Rescue Software to Save Lives
Can one woman’s passion for animals change how rescues operate?
In this episode, Amy Castro interviews Lizz Whitacre, founder of Pawlytics, to uncover how a single rescue story grew into a mission-driven tech company. From saving her first dog to launching a platform used by rescues nationwide, Lizz shares what it takes to turn love for animals into lasting impact. You'll hear about her challenges, the power of smart software, and what every rescue or pet entrepreneur needs to know.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How Lizz scaled her passion for pets into a successful rescue tech business
The biggest mistakes rescues make that tech can help solve
Why prioritizing animal welfare is key to running an ethical pet-based company
SHOUTOUTS IN THIS EPISODE:
Pawlytics
Petfinder
Adopt-a-Pet
Petcademy
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
44 min
October 10, 2023What It Really Takes to Run a Rescue: CAMO’s Story of Grit and Grace
Think you know what goes into starting and running a rescue? Think again.
In this powerful episode, Amy Castro sits down with Holly Dool, president of CAMO Rescue in Texas, to reveal the behind-the-scenes reality of leading an animal rescue. From making heartbreaking decisions to celebrating hard-won victories, Holly shares what it really takes to save lives, stay focused, and keep going when the work feels impossible.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How CAMO Rescue built a life-saving network through persistence and heart
The tough choices that come with rescue leadership, especially around funding and intake
Why clarity of mission and strong community support are everything in animal rescue
SHOUTOUTS IN THIS EPISODE:
CAMO Rescue
We Rate Dogs
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
48 min
October 03, 2023 Is Your Dog Therapy Dog Material?
Ever wondered if your dog has what it takes to become a therapy dog?
A lot of pet parents assume therapy work is just about having a sweet, friendly dog, but the real test is how your dog handles unpredictability. New environments, sudden noises, strangers who don’t know dog boundaries, medical equipment, crowded hallways, awkward hugs, and handling mistakes all come with the job.
In this uplifting episode, Amy Castro talks with Sandy Weaver, professional trainer and therapy dog expert, about what therapy dog work actually looks like, what evaluators are really watching for, and how the handler’s skills and relationship with their dog can make or break the experience.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• The temperament traits that matter most, and how to spot them in your dog
• Why the dog-handler relationship is a bigger deal than most people expect
• What therapy dogs actually do in real settings, and where they’re needed most
If you’ve ever considered therapy dog work, this episode will help you decide if your dog is truly a fit and what your next step should be.
SHOUTOUTS IN THIS EPISODE:
R.E.A.D. Program
CAREing Paws
Center for Workplace Happiness
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
34 min
September 26, 2023Neglected to Thriving: Kaiser’s Unforgettable Rescue Story
What happens when a neglected dog finally finds someone who sees his worth?
In this episode, Amy Castro sits down with Mayson Zimmermann to share the emotional journey of rescuing Kaiser, a neglected dog who defied the odds. From heartbreak to healing, this story showcases what’s possible when compassion, patience, and dedication come together to give a dog a second chance.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
The turning point that brought Kaiser into rescue and what it took to earn his trust
How understanding breed traits can help rehabilitate dogs with difficult pasts
Why one person’s belief in a dog can change both of their lives forever
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
28 min
September 19, 2023Small Pets, Big Commitments: What Vets Want You to Know
Curious about getting a rabbit, bird, turtle—or even a snake?
In this episode, Amy Castro sits down with veteran veterinarian Dr. Linda Atkins to explore what it really takes to care for small pets. From creating safe habitats to understanding species-specific needs, this is your go-to guide for making smart, informed decisions before bringing one home.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
What to know before adding a rabbit, bird, reptile, or turtle to your home
How to set up the right space, diet, and environment for your small pet to thrive
Why even low-maintenance pets need high-quality care and attention
SHOUTOUTS IN THIS EPISODE:
Valley Cottage Animal Hospital
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
44 min
September 12, 2023Dog Training: Why Your “Trained” Dog Suddenly Stops Listening
Feel like your dog’s forgotten everything they’ve ever learned?
In this episode, Amy Castro sits down with canine cognitive behavioral expert Billy Groom to explore why perfectly trained puppies often become disobedient “teenagers” and what to do about it. If you've been through dog training and your dog suddenly won’t come when called, ignores commands, or starts acting out, the problem isn’t a lack of discipline, it’s how their brain is changing.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
The science behind why adolescent dogs stop following the rules
Why traditional dog training often fails as dogs mature
How cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT for dogs!) helps dogs make better decisions and feel better too
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.
CONNECT WITH BILLY GROOM:
Upward Dogology
🎧 Podcast: Dog Training Disrupted by Upward Dogology
📘 Book and more available on her website
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
39 min
September 05, 2023Want to Foster or Volunteer for Pets? What to Know First
Ever wonder if you could really make a difference in a rescue animal’s life?
In this episode, Amy Castro shares what it’s like to volunteer with animal shelters and rescues—from the unexpected joys to the behind-the-scenes truths no one talks about. Whether you’ve thought about fostering, walking dogs, cleaning kennels, or just pitching in at events, this heartfelt conversation will help you decide where you fit in.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
What it’s actually like to volunteer or foster animals
Why rescue work changes your life as much as it changes theirs
Simple ways to start helping—even if you think you “can’t foster right now”
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
23 min
August 29, 2023Your Dog Feels Your Stress, Here’s What To Do
Ever notice your dog acting anxious, reactive, or unsettled, even when nothing obvious is happening?
Chances are, they’re picking up on you.
Your dog isn’t just responding to your commands or routines. They’re reading your body language, breathing patterns, tension, and emotional state constantly. When you’re stressed, rushed, or overwhelmed, that energy shows up in your dog’s behavior, whether you realize it or not.
In this episode, Amy sits down with Canine Partnered Energy Coach Mike Overlie to unpack how your internal state influences your dog’s nervous system, decision-making, and ability to stay calm, focused, and regulated. This isn’t about being perfect or pretending stress doesn’t exist. It’s about learning how to manage your energy in a way that helps your dog feel safer and more balanced too.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How your stress and emotional state quietly shape your dog’s behavior and reactions
Why simple habits like walking can become powerful tools for resetting both of you
What being more intentional with your energy actually looks like in everyday pet life
If you’ve ever felt like your dog mirrors your anxiety, your pace, or your mood, this conversation will help you see what’s really happening and how to create calmer days for both of you.
If this episode gave you a lightbulb moment, take a screenshot while you’re listening and share it on your social feed, tag me so I can thank you and share it back.
CONNECT WITH MIKE OVERLIE
SaveTwo.org
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
35 min
August 22, 2023Keeping Pets and People Together: The Mission of PAWS NY
What happens when pet owners face challenges so overwhelming they might have to give up the animals they love?
In this powerful episode, Amy Castro sits down with Rachel Herman, founder of Paws NY, to explore how one nonprofit is changing lives, both human and animal. From house call programs to critical vet care, Paws NY steps in where others can't, ensuring that vulnerable pet owners never have to choose between caring for themselves or their pets.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
What inspired Rachel to start Paws NY and how it grew into a vital community resource
How their volunteer programs help keep people and pets together
The ripple effect of support, compassion, and consistency in rescue work
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 and share it to your Instagram stories!
While you’re there, make sure you follow me on Instagram so you can see behind the scenes of how I help pet lovers create homes that work—for them and their pets.
CONNECT WITH PAWS NY
Instagram & Facebook | @pawsny
TikTok | @pawsnyc
Website | www.pawsny.org
Donate | give.pawsny.org
LEARN MORE FROM AMY:
TikTok | @amycastro.talks
Website | www.amycastro.com
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
www.PAWSNY.org
give.pawsny.org
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
44 min
August 15, 2023Lost Cat? How to Find Them Fast (and What Not to Do)
What would you do if your cat went missing and the advice you found online wasn’t working?
Most people panic, print flyers, and shake a treat bag, but today’s guest says that’s exactly what not to do. In this episode, Amy sits down with lost cat expert and pet detective Kim Freeman, who shares what really helps bring lost cats home.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
The critical mistake most pet parents make in the first 24 hours
How understanding cat behavior can transform your search strategy
Why some cats are closer than you think and how to spot the signs
This episode could make the difference between more heartbreak and a safe reunion. Don’t miss it.
When you finish listening, I'd love to hear your biggest takeaway from today’s episode.
GET KIM'S LOST CAT FINDER KIT HERE:
https://www.lostcatfinder.com/services/the-lost-cat-kit?ref=7o1eb9rt
CONNECT WITH KIM FREEMAN
www.lostcatfinder.com
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
42 min