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:

June 20, 2023 What to Do (and Not Do) When You Find Wildlife
Ever come across a wild animal and freeze, unsure of what to do?
Whether it's a baby bird on the ground or a raccoon in your attic, most of us want to help, but end up making things worse.
In this episode, Amy talks with Stephanie Ellis, Executive Director of Wild Care of Cape Cod, to break down what you should do when wildlife shows up in your world. You’ll hear real stories, practical tips, and how Wild Care is making a difference every single day.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• The #1 mistake people make when they find injured or “abandoned” wildlife
• What to do before calling a wildlife rehabilitator
• How you can help preserve habitats and protect wild animals in your area
This one’s for anyone who wants to live in harmony with the creatures that share our planet and make smarter, more compassionate choices when wild animals need help.
CONNECT WITH WILD CARE CAPE COD:
https://www.wildcarecapecod.org
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
What to Do If You Find Injured Wildlife – NWRA
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
48min
June 13, 2023Pet Grooming Secrets from Hollywood’s Top Groomer Jess Rona
Think grooming is just about a haircut? Think again.
Most pet parents have no idea what their groomer really goes through, or what makes a grooming session a total nightmare (or a dream).
In this episode, celebrity groomer Jess Rona spills the secrets every pet parent should know, from managing coat care between appointments to handling anxious or wiggly dogs AND she provides some easy DIY dog grooming tips for beginners to help you get started.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
The biggest mistakes pet parents make before and after grooming
How to build trust and reduce stress for your pet during grooming
Jess Rona’s insider DIY dog grooming tips for beginners that will keep coats healthy, especially in summer
Whether you groom at home or visit a pro, this episode will change how you approach pet care forever.
CONNECT WITH JESS RONA:
Website: https://www.jessronagrooming.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JessRonaGrooming
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JessRonaGrooming
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
https://www.jessronagrooming.com/classes
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.
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
49min
June 06, 2023 Understanding Dog Aggression: An Expert’s Warning Signs
Ever feel like dog aggression comes out of nowhere?
You’re not alone. The truth is, most pet parents miss the early warning signs of dog aggression until things have already escalated and they’re left feeling scared, confused, or overwhelmed.
In this episode, Amy sits down with dog aggression expert Dr. Jim Crosby to unpack what is really behind those scary outbursts. From body language and behavioral triggers to the warning signs many people miss, you’ll learn how to better understand, manage, and even help prevent canine aggression.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• The surprising root causes of dog aggression, and why it is not always about dominance
• How to recognize stress signals earlier and respond before behavior escalates
• Why socialization, environment, and trust-building matter more than punishment or discipline
This conversation is a must-listen for anyone living with, working with, or trying to better understand dog aggression, reactive dogs, and the signals dogs give before a bite or blow-up happens.
CONNECT WITH DR. JIM CROSBY:
Website: https://www.canineaggression.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jim.crosby.311
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.
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.
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
58min
May 30, 2023Working from Home? Stop Pets from Driving You Crazy
Ever try to lead a Zoom call while your dog is barking or your cat is walking across your keyboard?
Remote work sounds like a dream, until your pets decide they're the boss. If you're tired of juggling deadlines and dog walks, this episode is for you.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How to structure your day to meet both your pets’ needs and your professional goals
What routines, boundaries, and backup plans work (and what doesn’t)
Why flexibility and planning are your secret weapons for a productive, pet-friendly workday
Whether you’re new to remote work or need a reset, tune in for strategies to stay sane and keep your pets happy.
CONNECT WITH JASMINE JONTE:
Website: https://www.jasminejonte.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.
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
49min
May 23, 2023Vet Visits Don’t Have to Be Traumatizing, For You or Your Pet
Does your pet panic at the vet—or do you?
Vet visits can be a major source of anxiety for pets and their people. But they don’t have to be.
In this episode, Amy sits down with her friend and veterinarian, Dr. Arsue Shokrollahi-McClain (aka Dr. Zoo), to share practical tips to take the stress out of vet appointments—from pre-visit prep to payment at checkout.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
What to do before the appointment to help your pet stay calm
How your energy can make or break the vet visit
Tips for handling transportation, check-ins, and money conversations
If your pet gets anxious just seeing the carrier, or you dread vet day like it’s a root canal, this episode is your roadmap to relief.
CONNECT WITH DR. ZOO:
Website: Lap of Love
Product Mention: Feliway
Pet Insurance Mentioned: Petly
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.
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
46min
May 16, 2023Road Trips With Pets: Avoid Vomit, Stress and Car Chaos
Planning a road trip with your pets? Worried about how to make it safe, fun, and enjoyable?
In this episode, Amy chats with pet travel expert Amy Burkert, founder of GoPetFriendly.com, to bring you the ultimate guide to hitting the road with your furry co-pilot. Whether you’re traveling cross-country or just heading out for a weekend getaway, these tips will save your sanity.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How to prepare your pet physically and mentally for road travel
What to pack to keep your pet safe and comfortable
Tools and tricks for finding pet-friendly hotels, parks, and pit stops
If your idea of a dream trip includes wagging tails and window sniffs, this episode is your roadmap to making it happen.
CONNECT WITH AMY BURKERT:
Website: GoPetFriendly.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.
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
May 09, 2023Common Cat Care Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Think you’ve nailed cat parenting? You might be making mistakes that are putting your cat’s health and happiness at risk.
In this episode, Amy sits down with The Healthy Cat Guy, the viral sensation known for his cat care tips on TikTok and YouTube. Together, they bust common myths and dive into the dos and don’ts every cat parent should know. If you want to give your feline the longest, healthiest life possible, don’t miss this one.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
Understanding cat litter box issues and how to fix them.
Why enrichment and play aren’t optional for cats
The real consequences of skipping spay/neuter and vet visits
This episode is packed with expert cat care advice to help you avoid dangerous oversights and keep your cat thriving.
CONNECT WITH THE HEALTHY CAT GUY:
Check out The Healthy Cat Guy's videos on TikTok
Check out The Healthy Cat Guy's videos on YouTube

Shoutouts in this episode:
Da Bird Cat Toy by Go Cat
ASPCA: List of Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants for Cats

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
45min
May 02, 2023Think You ‘Have To’ Rehome Your Pet? Try This First
Ever heard someone say they “had to” give up their pet because they had a baby or were moving? Let’s unpack that.
In this episode, Amy teams up with fellow pet podcaster and dog training expert Jessica L. Fischer to confront the most common excuses people give when surrendering their pets. Together, they challenge the myths, explore what’s really behind these reasons, and offer a candid conversation about responsibility, compassion, and commitment in pet ownership.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
What’s often left unsaid behind common pet surrender reasons
How to navigate life changes like babies, moves, and relationship splits without giving up your pet
What responsible pet parenting actually looks like and why it matters more than ever
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to be part of the solution to the pet surrender crisis.
CONNECT WITH JESSICA L. FISCHER:
The Pet Parenting Reset Podcast
Listen on Apple Podcasts: Click here
The Furry Family Coach Training Course
Resource Guarding Mini-Course – Use code PODCAST for 50% off
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.
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
April 25, 2023Thinking About Adopting a Shelter Dog? Listen to This First
Ready to open your heart and home to a shelter dog? There’s more to it than just picking the cutest pup.
In this episode, Amy Castro teams up with professional dog trainer Ricky Bedient, also known as That Dog Guy, to unpack the most important things you need to know before adopting a dog from a shelter. They break down common myths, explore what makes a good match, and share expert tips for setting your new pet, and your household, up for success.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How to assess if a dog is truly the right fit for your lifestyle
Why puppy adoption isn’t always the easiest or best route
The role of family involvement and why preparation is everything
Whether you’re a first-time adopter or thinking about adding another pet to your pack, this episode is your roadmap to responsible adoption.
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.
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
38min
April 18, 2023Afraid to Adopt a Senior Dog? Here’s What You’re Missing
Afraid to adopt a senior dog because it feels “too sad”? You’re not alone. Many people avoid older dogs because of fears about health, longevity, or heartbreak, but what if you’re missing out on one of the most rewarding pet experiences of your life?

In this episode, Amy Castro sits down with Sherri Franklin, founder of Muttville Senior Dog Rescue, to challenge the myths and highlight the real joy and relief that can come from adopting older dogs.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• Why senior dogs are so often passed over and what shelters wish more adopters understood
• How senior and hospice adoptions can create a deeply meaningful bond
• How fostering and community support make it possible to save more older dogs

Whether you’ve never considered a senior dog or you already share your home with one, this conversation will help you see older dogs in a whole new way and might just nudge you toward opening your home to one more.

CONNECT WITH MUTTVILLE SENIOR DOG RESCUE:
Website: https://muttville.org
Instagram & Facebook: @muttvillesf
CONNECT WITH MUTTVILLE SENIOR DOG RESCUE:
Website: https://muttville.org
Instagram & Facebook: @muttvillesf
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Starlight Outreach and Rescue: https://starlightoutreachandrescue.org
Family Animal Hospital of Friendswood: https://familyahfriendswood.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.
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
45min

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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