The Pet Parent Hotline

By Amy Castro, MA, CSP

You thought a pet would be the perfect addition to your life. Instead, your bank account’s drained, your dog won’t stop barking, your cat’s peeing everywhere, and your house is such a disaster you

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FAQs about The Pet Parent Hotline:

How many episodes does The Pet Parent Hotline have?

The podcast currently has 126 episodes available.

The Pet Parent Hotline episodes:

April 30, 2024What Makes Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter So Successful?
Ever wonder how you can actually make a difference for homeless pets?
Too many shelters are overwhelmed, and most people think they can’t help unless they adopt, but that’s far from the truth.
In this episode, I sit down with April Pfeiffer from the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter to reveal how fostering, volunteering, and even small donations can create real change for pets in need.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How shelters like WCRAS are adapting to rising intake numbers and resource challenges
Simple, meaningful ways you can support a shelter without adopting
What makes the biggest difference for animals waiting for a second chance
This episode is your behind-the-scenes look at shelter life and how you can be part of the solution—no matter your lifestyle.
CONNECT WITH WILLIAMSON COUNTY REGIONAL ANIMAL SHELTER:
Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/WCRAS.TX
Website | https://pets.wilco.org
LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
Facebook | www.starlightoutreachandrescue.org
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Rehome by AdoptAPet.com | https://rehome.adoptapet.com
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same show, same mission—just a name that fits better now.
Love the show? Share it with a pet parent who’s tired of chaos. Drop a 5-star review so more people can find the real advice they need.

🎧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.
...more
45min
April 23, 2024 What Guide Dog Puppy Raisers Do to Train Future Heroes
Ever wonder who helps train the dogs that change lives for people who are blind?
Most people don’t realize that before a guide dog is matched with their handler, there’s a volunteer family behind the scenes laying the foundation for that dog’s success.
In this episode, you’ll meet two longtime puppy raisers and a guide dog recipient as they share what it really takes to raise a future guide dog—and how you can help, too.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• How guide dog puppies are selected, raised, and trained before formal school
• What it’s like to foster and then say goodbye to a dog you’ve raised
• Why the need for puppy raisers is greater than ever
If you’ve ever thought about volunteering or just want a glimpse into the journey of a guide dog, this episode will leave you inspired.
CONNECT WITH DONNA MACK:
LinkedIn | www.disabilitydiplomat.com
LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
Facebook | www.starlightoutreachandrescue.org
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Guide Dogs for the Blind | www.guidedogs.com
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same show, same mission—just a name that fits better now.
Love the show? Share it with a pet parent who’s tired of chaos. Drop a 5-star review so more people can find the real advice they need.

🎧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.
...more
38min
April 16, 2024 Spring & Summer Pet Safety Tips Every Owner Needs
Worried about keeping your pets safe during the warmer months?
From allergies and pests to heatstroke and toxic plants, spring and summer bring a new set of challenges for pet parents.
In this episode, Amy is joined by Dr. Zoo from Family Animal Hospital to share essential seasonal safety tips that every dog or cat owner needs to hear.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• How to protect your pet from seasonal allergies, pests, and plant toxins
• Simple ways to keep your pet cool, hydrated, and safe outdoors
• What to clean, pack, and prep so you're ready for anything—at home or on the go
This episode is your go-to seasonal checklist for a safe, stress-free spring and summer with your pets.
CONNECT WITH DR. ZOO:
Facebook | www.familyanimalhospitaltx.com
LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
Facebook | www.starlightoutreachandrescue.org
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Pet Poison Helpline | www.petpoisonhelpline.com
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same show, same mission—just a name that fits better now.
Love the show? Share it with a pet parent who’s tired of chaos. Drop a 5-star review so more people can find the real advice they need.

🎧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.
...more
52min
April 09, 2024Lap of Love: The Case for Gentle, At-Home Pet Hospice & Euthanasia
Facing the end of your pet’s life and unsure how to make it peaceful and meaningful?
Many pet parents struggle with how to honor their pet’s final chapter while navigating guilt, fear, and overwhelming grief.
In this episode, Amy talks with Dr. Mary Gardner from Lap of Love about how in-home hospice and euthanasia services can transform this emotional time into one of comfort, dignity, and love.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• How in-home euthanasia offers a peaceful, familiar environment for pets
• What anticipatory grief looks like and how to manage those emotions
• Why it's okay to feel relief after your pet passes—and how to let go of guilt
This heartfelt conversation will help you feel less alone, more empowered, and supported in making the most compassionate choices when the time comes.
CONNECT WITH DR. MARY GARDNER:
Website | www.drmarygardner.com
Lap of Love | www.lapoflove.com
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Dog Life Quality Assessment: https://www.lapoflove.com/Quality-of-Life/Quality-of-Life-Scoring-Tool
Cat Life Quality Assessment: https://www.lapoflove.com/Quality-of-Life/Cat-Quality-of-Life-Scale
Pet Loss Book – I Miss You Already by Nancy Gordon: https://www.amazon.com/Miss-You-Already-Unbearable-Loss/dp/1734642806
Quality of Life Video for Pet Parents: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfN2GuVKO-c
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same show, same mission—just a name that fits better now.
Love the show? Share it with a pet parent who’s tired of chaos. Drop a 5-star review so more people can find the real advice they need.

🎧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.
...more
50min
April 02, 2024What To Do If You Find a Litter of Kittens
Not sure what to do when you stumble on a litter of kittens?
Every spring, well-meaning people rush to “rescue” kittens they stumble across who may not need saving.
In this episode, Amy breaks down what you need to know before stepping in—so you don’t accidentally do more harm than good.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How to assess if the kittens are healthy or in danger
Simple ways to tell if the mother cat is still caring for them
What signs indicate it’s time to intervene—and when to leave them alone
If you’ve ever found a litter and didn’t know what to do, this episode gives you the confidence to act responsibly and compassionately.
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Kitten Age Chart – KittenLady.org
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.
Love the show? Share it with a pet parent who’s tired of chaos. Drop a 5-star review so more people can find the real advice they need.

🎧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.
...more
22min
March 26, 2024The Healing Power of End-of-Life Pet Photography
Ever wish you had more meaningful photos of your pet—especially in their final days?
Too often, we wait until it’s too late. And when the end comes, we’re left with blurry snapshots and fading memories.
In this powerful episode, I talk with Angela Schneider of Big White Dog Photography and One Last Network about the emotional impact of end-of-life pet photography and why it matters more than most people realize.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How end-of-life photography helps honor and preserve the bond you share with your pet
Why professional pet photographers capture so much more than just an image
The comfort and closure this kind of tribute can offer during times of grief
If you’ve ever loved and lost a pet, this episode will open your heart to a new way of celebrating their legacy.
CONNECT WITH ANGELA SCHNEIDER
Instagram | https://bigwhitedogphotography.com/
Podcast + Pet Loss Resources | https://onelastnetwork.com/
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same show, same mission—just a name that fits better now.
Love the show? Share it with a pet parent who’s tired of chaos. Drop a 5-star review so more people can find the real advice they need.

🎧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.
...more
34min
March 19, 2024 What It Really Takes to Care for a Special-Needs Pet
Ever wonder what life looks like when your pet gets a serious diagnosis?
Caring for a pet with special needs can be incredibly rewarding—but also overwhelming, isolating, and financially draining.
In this episode, I talk with pet podcaster Julie Marty Pearson about her journey with her diabetic cat, Charlie, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with managing long-term pet illness.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• What daily life is really like for pet parents managing chronic illness
• How to recognize subtle signs that your pet may be struggling
• Why some families consider rehoming and what that means for shelters
This one’s for anyone who's ever loved a pet through tough times—or is doing it right now.
CONNECT WITH JULIE MARTY PEARSON
Instagram: @storyofmypetpodcast | Website: www.podcastyourstorynow.com
LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
Facebook: @AmyCastroSpeaker | Website: www.amycastro.com
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
The Story of My Pet Podcast
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.
Love the show? Share it with a pet parent who’s tired of chaos. Drop a 5-star review so more people can find the real advice they need.

🎧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.
...more
39min
March 12, 2024 Mission K9 Heroes: Reuniting Working Dogs With Their Handlers
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.
Love the show? Share it with a pet parent who’s tired of chaos. Drop a 5-star review so more people can find the real advice they need.

🎧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.
...more
41min
March 05, 2024Stop Being That Dog Owner: Public Etiquette 101
Tired of chaotic encounters with unruly dogs in public spaces?
Bringing your dog out in public shouldn’t feel like you’re bracing for battle. But without clear rules, training, and awareness, even a simple walk can turn into a mess of pulling, barking, and awkward run-ins.
This episode breaks down how to build better dog etiquette, so you and your pup can navigate the world with confidence and calm.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How to decode your dog’s body language before things escalate
What to know about breed-specific behaviors and unique quirks
The unwritten rules every dog owner should follow in public
If you’ve ever wished your dog could just “act right” at the park, vet, or coffee shop patio, this episode is your go-to guide for respectful, well-behaved outings.
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.
Love the show? Share it with a pet parent who’s tired of chaos. Drop a 5-star review so more people can find the real advice they need.

🎧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.
...more
43min
February 27, 2024Is Your Dog Guarding Food or Toys? Here’s What to Do
Is your dog showing subtle signs of aggression around food, toys, or even people?
Many pet parents miss the early red flags of resource guarding—until it escalates. If you’ve ever felt nervous about your dog “snapping,” this episode is your chance to understand what’s really going on and how to stop it before it gets worse.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
How to recognize the early warning signs of resource guarding
Why some dogs develop guarding behavior—and how you can help
What to do (and not do) if your dog growls, guards, or gets possessive
CONNECT WITH WILL BANGURA
Website: dogbehaviorist.com
Training: phoenixdogtraining.com
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Phoenix Dog Training
DogBehaviorist.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.
Love the show? Share it with a pet parent who’s tired of chaos. Drop a 5-star review so more people can find the real advice they need.

🎧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.
...more
1h 5min

FAQs about The Pet Parent Hotline:

How many episodes does The Pet Parent Hotline have?

The podcast currently has 126 episodes available.

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