Worried your cat will freak out in the car? You’re not alone.
Whether you’re planning a move or just need to get your cat to the vet without a meltdown, cat travel can feel overwhelming. But with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be.
In this episode, I talk with Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist LeeAnna Buis about how to reduce anxiety and set your cat up for success before, during, and after the ride.

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

• How to help your cat feel calm in their carrier and the car
• What to pack for a safe, smooth road trip with one or more cats
• Simple ways to avoid behavior issues and keep travel low-stress

If you’ve been putting off a trip because of your cat’s stress, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to hit the road with peace of mind.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LEEANNA BUIS:
www.felinebehaviorsolutions.com

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• PreventiveVet.com – Checklists and travel resources
• DaBird Toy – The cat toy mentioned in the episode

PS: If you hear us mention Muddy Paws and Hairballs, that was before we shifted our focus to what really matters: helping you thrive as a pet parent. Same host, sharper mission. 

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Follow:
🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: saving money on pet food, saving money on pet care, puppy training, cat behavior, behavior problems, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #1 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024!
While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of your all-time favorite episodes from 2024!

In this episode, holistic veterinarian Dr. Jeff Grognet emphasizes the critical importance of understanding pet vaccinations, including core and non-core vaccines, potential risks of over-vaccination, and tailored vaccination schedules based on pet age and lifestyle. This episode empowers pet owners to have informed discussions with veterinarians and advocate effectively for their pets' health and well-being.

Highlights:

• The significance of core vs. non-core vaccines
• Assessing the risks related to vaccinations, including allergies and adverse reactions
• Evaluating age and lifestyle factors in determining vaccine needs
• Understanding rabies vaccination protocols and legal requirements
• Exploring alternatives to traditional vaccination practices
• Guidance on how to communicate effectively with veterinarians
• Stressing the importance of informed consent and pet owners’ rights

Learn more about Dr. Jeff, his work, and his courses at www.newearthvet.com.

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Follow:
🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: saving money on pet food, saving money on pet care, puppy training, cat behavior, behavior problems, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #2 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024!
While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of your all-time favorite episodes of 2024 from the vault!

This episode focuses on addressing the top five dog behaviors that frustrate pet owners and providing actionable strategies to manage them effectively. Through insightful discussions with dog training expert Ruth Hegarty, listeners gain tools to:

• Improve their dog’s leash manners using positive reinforcement
• Reduce nuisance barking with effective management strategies
• Train reliable recall skills to ensure safety
• Manage jumping behaviors to keep guests happy
• Curtail destructive chewing and protect your belongings

To Learn More

• Explore Ruth’s dog training programs on her website: https://www.creaturegooddogtraining.com/
• Access Ruth’s resource library with helpful handouts: https://mailchi.mp/a21acb0bb44f/dogtalk
• Discover your dogs breed and health traits with EMBARK DNA tests. 

This re-airing of a fan-favorite episode delivers practical dog training advice that every pet parent needs to hear. Don’t miss this opportunity to tackle common dog behavior problems and strengthen the bond with your furry friend!

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Follow:
🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: saving money on pet food, saving money on pet care, puppy training, cat behavior, behavior problems, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #3 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024!
While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of your all-time favorite episodes of 2024 from the vault!

This episode dives into the financial options available for pet healthcare, providing actionable insights to help pet parents prepare for unexpected expenses. Join Amy and Jonathan Wainberg, Senior VP of Synchrony Financial Service’s Pet Business, as they discuss strategies like budgeting, CareCredit, and pet insurance, while emphasizing the importance of open communication with veterinarians.

Key Topics Covered:

• Examining the rising costs of pet ownership
• Exploring financing options for pet healthcare
• The role of CareCredit in managing expenses
• Budgeting strategies for unexpected healthcare costs
• The importance of pet insurance as a financial tool
• Communicating financial capabilities with veterinarians
• Resources and assistance available for pet parents in need
• Educational tools to help pet owners prepare for healthcare expenses

Discover how to plan for pet healthcare expenses and ensure your pets get the care they need.

Relevant Links:

• Learn more about Synchrony's Pet Lifetime of Care study: Read the Study Here
• Explore the benefits of CareCredit for pet healthcare: Visit CareCredit

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Follow:
🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: saving money on pet food, saving money on pet care, puppy training, cat behavior, behavior problems, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #4 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024!
While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of our listeners' all-time favorite episodes of 2024 from the vault!

Understanding responsible rabbit care is essential for anyone considering adding a bunny to their family. Join Amy as she interviews Marcy Berman, founder of Save a Bunny Rabbit Rescue, to discuss the complexities of rabbit care, the importance of spaying and neutering, and the misconceptions surrounding bunny ownership.

You'll Learn About:

• Marcy’s journey from discovering an abandoned rabbit to founding Save a Bunny Rescue.
• Common misconceptions about rabbits' needs and proper care.
• The challenges faced by rabbits in shelters and rescue environments.
• Why spaying and neutering rabbits is vital for health and population control.
• The emotional and physical benefits of having rabbits as pets.
• How fostering can help you better understand rabbit and small animal care.
• Ways to support rabbit welfare and advocacy in your community.

To Learn More About Save a Bunny Rescue:

• Visit: https://saveabunny.org/
• Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaveABunny

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Follow:
🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: saving money on pet food, saving money on pet care, puppy training, cat behavior, behavior problems, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #5 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024!
While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of your all-time favorite episodes of 2024 from the vault!

In this episode, Dr. Marlene Siegel joins us to explore how integrative veterinary care can transform your pet’s health and longevity. Forget masking symptoms—Dr. Siegel focuses on addressing root causes of disease and shares practical tips to help your pet thrive. From nutrition to detoxing and emotional care, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways you can start using today.

What We Cover:

• The danger of treating symptoms instead of the root problem.
• Why your pet’s diet matters more than you think.
• How inflammation wreaks havoc on pet health.
• The surprising role of water quality in wellness.
• Healing the gut for long-term health.
• Detoxing your pet’s environment for optimal well-being.
• Why emotional well-being is crucial for your pet’s overall health.
• How to educate yourself and advocate for your pet effectively.

Special Resources:

• Learn more about Dr. Siegel: www.drmarlenesiegel.com
• Access her free e-book and courses: www.transformingvetmedicine.com
• Special Offer: The first 10 people to purchase Dr. Siegel's Pet Parent Course and share a photo of their completed purchase on Instagram, tagging @drmarlenesiegel with the hashtag #starlight, will receive a free 15-minute online consult with Dr. Siegel.

Hit play and get ready to take your pet’s health to the next level!

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Follow:
🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: saving money on pet food, saving money on pet care, puppy training, cat behavior, behavior problems, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

As we wrap up Starlight Pet Talk, we’re taking a moment to celebrate everything this podcast has meant over the past two years. This episode is all about gratitude, reflection, and a little bit of fun as we look back on the episodes that resonated most with you – our incredible listeners.

In this episode, we’re:
 • Reflecting on the core mission of Starlight Pet Talk – connecting with and educating pet parents with honesty and heart.
• Sharing memorable stories and moments that capture the ups and downs of pet ownership.
• Highlighting amazing community support and standout listener interactions that have shaped this podcast.
• Looking back at the most downloaded episodes of 2024 and why they stood out.
• Offering a sneak peek at what’s ahead with the show – keeping the same values, but adding fresh energy and topics.

This isn’t goodbye – it’s just the next chapter. Thank you for being part of this journey. We can’t wait to see you in the next phase!

Let me know if this feels more aligned, or if there’s something specific you’d like me to highlight further.

PS: If you hear us mention Muddy Paws and Hairballs, that was before we shifted our focus to what really matters: helping you thrive as a pet parent. Same host, sharper mission. 

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Follow:
🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: saving money on pet food, saving money on pet care, puppy training, cat behavior, behavior problems, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

Big news is in the air, pet lovers! This week’s episode is all about transformation, as we prepare to reveal a bold new direction for the podcast. Join me, Amy Castro, alongside guest host Bev Brooks, as we dive into the why, how, and what’s next for your favorite pet-loving show.

What’s changing? More than you might think! From the podcast name to the vibe and format, this evolution is designed to better reflect the messy, magical, and meaningful realities of life with pets. We’re talking about going beyond formulaic interviews to real, relatable conversations that capture the joy—and chaos—of pet ownership.

In this Episode:

• The funny misunderstandings our old name sparked (spoiler: pet astrology is not our thing). 
• Why the right name matters for connecting with the right audience.
• How we’re reshaping the podcast to keep things fresh, fun, and full of honest conversations.
• Sneak peeks at the kinds of stories, tips, and pet-focused insights you can expect in the new era of the show.

Why Listen Now?
If you’ve ever wished for a pet podcast that reflects real life—the muddy paws, the late-night hairballs, and the unfiltered joy of being a pet parent—this episode is your perfect introduction to the exciting changes ahead. Plus, you’ll get to laugh along as Bev and I chat about everything from branding challenges to the everyday antics of our furry friends.

Don’t Miss the Big Reveal!
The new chapter launches soon, so hit subscribe and stay tuned. Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or are just discovering us now, you won’t want to miss where we’re headed next. Let’s celebrate the quirks, challenges, and unconditional love that make life with pets unforgettable.

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Follow:
🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: saving money on pet food, saving money on pet care, puppy training, cat behavior, behavior problems, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by 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

Join us for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation with Daio Floyd, a seasoned dog trainer and rescuer, as she shares her journey from competing in dog sports as a young enthusiast to founding and leading a training and rehabilitation rescue.

In this episode, we dive deep into:

• The evolving challenges and triumphs in animal rescue.
• Insights into how rescues operate, from large-scale facilities to home-based efforts, and the critical importance of community support and funding.
• Managing common shelter dog behaviors like reactivity and separation anxiety that often lead to surrender.
• The ethical and practical considerations of resource allocation, including difficult decisions about intake criteria and prioritizing animals with better adoption prospects.

Daio’s unique perspective sheds light on what it takes to give rescue animals the best chance at finding their forever homes while maintaining their well-being.

As we wrap up, we spotlight:

• The essential role of volunteers in rescue operations and how aligning their skills with tasks can improve outcomes.
• Strategies for building stronger community engagement to enhance rescue efforts.

2025 is the year to make big strides in animal welfare, and this episode calls on YOU to take action, support rescues, and make a real difference for animals in need.

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Follow:
🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: saving money on pet food, saving money on pet care, puppy training, cat behavior, behavior problems, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

Think keeping ants as pets sounds strange? You might be surprised.
Ant keeping is one of the fastest-growing pet hobbies in the world, and it’s easy to see why. These tiny creatures are incredibly social, surprisingly low maintenance, and full of behaviors that will blow your mind.
In this episode, I talk with Zachary Liu, a myrmecologist from McGill University and founder of Canada Ant Colony. We explore what makes ants such fascinating animals and how to get started if you’re curious about adding a colony to your home.

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

• How to start your first ant habitat and which species are beginner-friendly
• Why ant colonies are often compared to fish tanks and what makes them unique
• Tips for gifting ant colonies responsibly and getting kids involved in a fun, educational hobby

Whether you’re already a seasoned pet owner or just curious about unusual animals, this episode will open your eyes to an entirely different kind of pet experience.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ZACHARY LIU:

• Canada Ant Colony – Zach’s ant supply business
• Global Ant Nursery Project – Community resource for finding local ant species

P.S. You might hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk in this episode—that was our original name. The show has since evolved, and while the name changed, the mission remains the same. You’re in the right place.

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Follow:
🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: saving money on pet food, saving money on pet care, puppy training, cat behavior, behavior problems, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.