Do you know what to do before walking into the emergency vet?

Most pet parents don’t think about it until it’s too late. You’re stressed, scared, and possibly facing big decisions without knowing what to expect.

In this episode, Amy sits down with emergency vet Dr. Tyler Sugrrman-McGiffin to break down what happens behind the scenes in an ER, how emergency care differs from general practice, and how you can be better prepared for the unexpected.

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

• How to emotionally and financially prepare for an emergency vet visit
• Why ER vets sometimes seem “all business” and how that helps your pet
• What decisions you may have to make when every second counts

CONNECT WITH DR. TYLER SUGRRMAN-MCGIFFIN:
The Vetsplanation Podcast

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.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more can get the pet parent advice they need.

Please take our quick listener survey: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/ZbaTzF

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

Pet parenting is tough, but this show delivers expert pet advice and solutions for real pet parenting struggles. Each week, we share pet care on a budget tips and pet saving hacks to help you stretch every dollar, whether it’s pet cost hacks for vet bills and pet food, or simple ways to make training and daily care easier. You’ll get dog training and behavior advice, cat care insights, and practical pet advice for everything from litter box issues to keeping multi-pet homes peaceful. We cover pet budgeting, managing pet behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning that actually works with pets. Follow for the support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected] ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Could you live with a cat that constantly tests your patience?

In this episode, Amy sits down with her friend Bev to share the wild, wonderful, and often chaotic journey of living with Cuzzy, a cat lovingly known as the World’s Most Difficult Cat.

From escaping at every opportunity to refusing to play by the rules, Cuzzy isn’t your typical housecat. But through it all, Bev’s commitment to cat care that meets Cuzzy's needs, not just her own, never wavered. Whether you’ve got a challenging pet of your own or just love a good story, this episode will have you laughing, nodding, and maybe even tearing up.

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

• What makes Cuzzy’s behavior so extreme  and how Bev's cat care routines help everyone cope
• Why some pets test us more than others (and what we can learn from them)
• How love, loyalty, and a little bit of humor go a long way with difficult animals

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
KONG Pet Toys

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.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more can get the pet parent advice they need.

Please take our quick listener survey: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/ZbaTzF

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

Pet parenting is tough, but this show delivers expert pet advice and solutions for real pet parenting struggles. Each week, we share pet care on a budget tips and pet saving hacks to help you stretch every dollar, whether it’s pet cost hacks for vet bills and pet food, or simple ways to make training and daily care easier. You’ll get dog training and behavior advice, cat care insights, and practical pet advice for everything from litter box issues to keeping multi-pet homes peaceful. We cover pet budgeting, managing pet behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning that actually works with pets. Follow for the support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected] ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

What if a few simple changes could add years to your pet’s life?

If you've ever worried about whether you're doing enough to keep your pet healthy, you're not alone. In this episode, Amy talks with holistic veterinarian Dr. Gary Richter, founder of Ultimate Pet Nutrition, to uncover the everyday choices that can make a major difference in your pet’s longevity.

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

• How vaccinations and parasite prevention affect long-term wellness
• The truth about processed pet food and what to feed instead
• The role lifestyle plays in preventing disease and promoting vitality
• How to choose pet insurance that helps you, not hurts your wallet
• Which common nutrition myths may be shortening your pet’s life

When you finish listening, I'd love to hear your biggest takeaway from today’s 

CONNECT WITH DR. GARY RICHTER:
Ultimate Pet Nutrition – 40% off with code PETHEALTH40

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
American Heartworm Society

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.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more can get the pet parent advice they need.

Please take our quick listener survey: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/ZbaTzF

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

Pet parenting is tough, but this show delivers expert pet advice and solutions for real pet parenting struggles. Each week, we share pet care on a budget tips and pet saving hacks to help you stretch every dollar, whether it’s pet cost hacks for vet bills and pet food, or simple ways to make training and daily care easier. You’ll get dog training and behavior advice, cat care insights, and practical pet advice for everything from litter box issues to keeping multi-pet homes peaceful. We cover pet budgeting, managing pet behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning that actually works with pets. Follow for the support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected] ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Ever wonder if your pet’s behavior problems could be solved with a toy?

Most pet parents don’t realize that play and enrichment aren’t just fun extras—they’re essential to your pet’s mental and emotional health. When pets don’t get enough stimulation, they act out, get stressed, or even end up surrendered to shelters.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How play impacts your pet’s brain and behavior
• The surprising link between toy selection and fewer training issues
• Simple ways to prevent boredom-related behavior problems before they start

If you want a happier, healthier pet (and fewer messes to clean up), this episode is for you.

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 KAT KEKEL
Website: Von Kekel Canine

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
KONG Company and KONG Classroom

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more can get the pet parent advice they need.

Please take our quick listener survey: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/ZbaTzF

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

Pet parenting is tough, but this show delivers expert pet advice and solutions for real pet parenting struggles. Each week, we share pet care on a budget tips and pet saving hacks to help you stretch every dollar, whether it’s pet cost hacks for vet bills and pet food, or simple ways to make training and daily care easier. You’ll get dog training and behavior advice, cat care insights, and practical pet advice for everything from litter box issues to keeping multi-pet homes peaceful. We cover pet budgeting, managing pet behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning that actually works with pets. Follow for the support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected] ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Thinking about adding a pet to your life, but not sure if it is the right time or the right decision?

Every year, pets end up surrendered because their humans rushed in without asking the tough questions first. Whether you are considering your very first pet or adding another to your household, this episode walks you through 10 essential questions that could save you from heartbreak and help ensure the pet you choose gets the forever home they deserve.

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

• The #1 question that reveals if you are really ready for a pet
• The hidden costs of pet ownership most people overlook
• How to tell if your current pets will welcome a new family member

Before you make a life-changing decision for you and for your future pet, listen to this first.

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk in this episode. That was our original name. Do not worry, you are in the right place.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more can get the pet parent advice they need.

Please take our quick listener survey: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/ZbaTzF

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

Pet parenting is tough, but this show delivers expert pet advice and solutions for real pet parenting struggles. Each week, we share pet care on a budget tips and pet saving hacks to help you stretch every dollar, whether it’s pet cost hacks for vet bills and pet food, or simple ways to make training and daily care easier. You’ll get dog training and behavior advice, cat care insights, and practical pet advice for everything from litter box issues to keeping multi-pet homes peaceful. We cover pet budgeting, managing pet behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning that actually works with pets. Follow for the support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected] ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Ever feel like your pet photos never turn out as cute as the real thing?

Whether you're snapping pics for fun or trying to help a shelter animal find a home, bad lighting, awkward angles, and blurry shots can ruin the moment—and make amazing animals look unadoptable.

In this episode, pro dog photographer and rescue advocate Mindy Dutka joins Amy to share simple fixes that can turn your "meh" pet pics into scroll-stopping shots.

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

• The #1 mistake people make when photographing pets (and how to fix it)
• The secret to getting expressive, adoption-worthy photos, even with a phone
• How photography is saving lives in shelters around the world

You’ll also hear how Mindy is making a difference through Global United Foundation and her dog photography business, Dogs I Meet.

CONNECT WITH MINDY DUTKA
 IG: @dogsimeet | Website: www.dogsimeet.com | Email: [email protected]
Donate to Global United Foundation: donorbox.org/globalunited

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.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more can get the pet parent advice they need.

Please take our quick listener survey: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/ZbaTzF

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

Pet parenting is tough, but this show delivers expert pet advice and solutions for real pet parenting struggles. Each week, we share pet care on a budget tips and pet saving hacks to help you stretch every dollar, whether it’s pet cost hacks for vet bills and pet food, or simple ways to make training and daily care easier. You’ll get dog training and behavior advice, cat care insights, and practical pet advice for everything from litter box issues to keeping multi-pet homes peaceful. We cover pet budgeting, managing pet behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning that actually works with pets. Follow for the support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected] ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Ever thought about starting an animal rescue, but had no idea what really goes on behind the scenes?

You’ve seen the heartwarming posts and happy endings online, but running a rescue takes a lot more than just good intentions.

In this special episode, Amy teams up with guest host (and best friend) Bev to share the raw, unfiltered truth about launching and managing a rescue. From the paperwork to the heartbreak, you'll hear what most people don’t talk about—and why it's still worth it.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:
• What it really takes to start an animal rescue from scratch
• How to avoid common mistakes in fundraising, volunteers, and adoptions
• Why post-adoption support is one of the most overlooked keys to success

Whether you’re dreaming of starting a rescue or just curious what goes on behind the curtain, this heartfelt conversation will leave you informed—and inspired.

CONNECT WITH ST★RLIGHT OUTREACH & RESCUE:
www.StarlightOutreachandRescue.org

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more can get the pet parent advice they need.

Please take our quick listener survey: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/ZbaTzF

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

Pet parenting is tough, but this show delivers expert pet advice and solutions for real pet parenting struggles. Each week, we share pet care on a budget tips and pet saving hacks to help you stretch every dollar, whether it’s pet cost hacks for vet bills and pet food, or simple ways to make training and daily care easier. You’ll get dog training and behavior advice, cat care insights, and practical pet advice for everything from litter box issues to keeping multi-pet homes peaceful. We cover pet budgeting, managing pet behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning that actually works with pets. Follow for the support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected] ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

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

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more can get the pet parent advice they need.

Please take our quick listener survey: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/ZbaTzF

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

Pet parenting is tough, but this show delivers expert pet advice and solutions for real pet parenting struggles. Each week, we share pet care on a budget tips and pet saving hacks to help you stretch every dollar, whether it’s pet cost hacks for vet bills and pet food, or simple ways to make training and daily care easier. You’ll get dog training and behavior advice, cat care insights, and practical pet advice for everything from litter box issues to keeping multi-pet homes peaceful. We cover pet budgeting, managing pet behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning that actually works with pets. Follow for the support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected] ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

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.

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 tips for keeping 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.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more can get the pet parent advice they need.

Please take our quick listener survey: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/ZbaTzF

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

Pet parenting is tough, but this show delivers expert pet advice and solutions for real pet parenting struggles. Each week, we share pet care on a budget tips and pet saving hacks to help you stretch every dollar, whether it’s pet cost hacks for vet bills and pet food, or simple ways to make training and daily care easier. You’ll get dog training and behavior advice, cat care insights, and practical pet advice for everything from litter box issues to keeping multi-pet homes peaceful. We cover pet budgeting, managing pet behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning that actually works with pets. Follow for the support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected] ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Ever feel like your dog’s aggression comes out of nowhere?

You’re not alone—and the truth is, most pet parents miss the early warning signs until it’s too late.

In this episode, Amy sits down with dog aggression expert Dr. Jim Crosby to uncover what’s really behind those scary outbursts. From body language to behavioral triggers, you’ll learn how to identify, manage, and even prevent canine aggression.

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

• The surprising root causes of canine aggression (it’s not always dominance)
• How to recognize stress signals and de-escalate reactive behavior
• Why socialization, environment, and trust-building matter more than discipline

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone living with, working with, or trying to understand aggressive or reactive dogs.

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.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more can get the pet parent advice they need.

Please take our quick listener survey: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/ZbaTzF

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

Pet parenting is tough, but this show delivers expert pet advice and solutions for real pet parenting struggles. Each week, we share pet care on a budget tips and pet saving hacks to help you stretch every dollar, whether it’s pet cost hacks for vet bills and pet food, or simple ways to make training and daily care easier. You’ll get dog training and behavior advice, cat care insights, and practical pet advice for everything from litter box issues to keeping multi-pet homes peaceful. We cover pet budgeting, managing pet behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning that actually works with pets. Follow for the support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected] ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro