Want your town or workplace to be more dog-friendly? Here’s how to make it happen.
In this episode, I talk with Beth Miller, founder of Wagtown Consulting, about what it really takes to build communities that welcome and support dogs—and the people who love them. Beth shares her mission to transform neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces into more inclusive, dog-centric environments with lasting impact.

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

• What defines a truly dog-friendly community
• Why community buy-in and leadership support are key to lasting change
• How to assess local needs and create actionable plans
• Resources Wagtown offers to help you get started in your own city or workplace

Whether you’re a pet lover, a community organizer, or just want to make your town more welcoming to dogs, this episode will give you the tools and inspiration to create change.

LEARN MORE ABOUT WAGTOWN:

• Website: www.wagtown.org
• Contact Beth directly: [email protected]

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 content, just a name that fits better.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Please support the show here!

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

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real problems with practical pet care advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money on pet food at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easier, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households running smoothly. We also share expert tips for pet budgeting, managing dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and keeping your home clean with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need, so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro

Think you’re ready to adopt a pet? You might want to double-check. In this candid episode, Amy breaks down 10 common reasons pet adopters get rejected—and most have no idea they’re making these mistakes.

Drawing from 15 years in rescue and sheltering, Amy shares the red flags that well-meaning adopters accidentally wave. These aren’t the obvious deal-breakers like animal hoarding or a history of abuse. We’re talking about the subtle signs that tell a rescue, “This might not be the right fit.”

What You’ll Learn:
 ✔️ Why saying “I just want a dog that’s good with kids” could raise eyebrows
 ✔️ The real reason your perfect setup might still get a no
 ✔️ How overconfidence, unrealistic expectations, or vague answers can tank an application
 ✔️ Why “I work from home” isn’t always the golden ticket
 ✔️ How to show you're truly prepared for lifelong pet parenting

This episode is your chance to get inside the mind of a rescue decision-maker and understand what truly matters when applying to adopt a pet. Whether you're thinking about adopting soon or just want to avoid common missteps, this is one you can’t afford to miss.

Listen now and make sure you're set up for adoption success.

For more tips and behind-the-scenes insights, visit starlightoutreachandrescue.org.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Please support the show here!

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

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real problems with practical pet care advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money on pet food at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easier, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households running smoothly. We also share expert tips for pet budgeting, managing dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and keeping your home clean with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need, so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro

Thinking about having your dog or cat walk down the aisle on your big day?

Many couples dream of including their pets in their wedding without realizing just how much planning it takes to keep everyone calm, safe, and comfortable.

This episode breaks it all down—from what roles pets can realistically play to how to decide whether it's even a good idea for your particular pet.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
 ✔️ What to consider before letting your pet be part of your ceremony
 ✔️ The most popular (and safest) ways to include pets in weddings
 ✔️ Creative alternatives if your pet can’t attend but still deserves the spotlight

Whether your pet is walking down the aisle, posing for photos, or simply celebrated in spirit, this episode will help you make the day memorable for both humans and animals.

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, share it to your Instagram stories and tag me, @YOURSOCIALHANDLE!

While you’re there, make sure you follow me on Instagram so you can see behind the scenes of how I [share real-life moments of pets being part of the family] and how you can too.

CONNECT WITH NICOLE ETTENHOFER
Instagram: @georgestreetphoto | www.georgestreetphoto.com

LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
Instagram: @YOURSOCIALHANDLE | www.starlightpettalk.com

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Mention the Muddy Paws and Hairballs podcast when booking with George Street and get $600 off the Love Captured Package.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Please support the show here!

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

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real problems with practical pet care advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money on pet food at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easier, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households running smoothly. We also share expert tips for pet budgeting, managing dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and keeping your home clean with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need, so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro

If disaster strikes, would you know how to protect your pets?

Too many pet parents wait until it’s too late to make a plan. Whether it’s a wildfire, hurricane, or sudden evacuation, your pet’s safety depends on your preparedness.

In this episode, Amy talks with Roxana Petzold from the American Red Cross to break down exactly what you need to do to prepare your pets before an emergency happens.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
 ✔️ What to pack in a pet emergency go-bag
 ✔️ Why microchipping and up-to-date records could save your pet’s life
 ✔️ How to build a pet safety plan that actually works when disaster hits

Don’t wait for a warning siren to get ready. This episode will help you take action now to protect the pets you love.

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, share it to your Instagram stories and tag me, @YOURSOCIALHANDLE!

While you’re there, make sure you follow me on Instagram so you can see behind the scenes of how I [help pet parents stay prepared and stress-free] and how you can too.

CONNECT WITH ROXANA PETZOLD
Facebook: @RedCross | www.redcross.org

LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
Instagram: @YOURSOCIALHANDLE | www.starlightpettalk.com

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
American Red Cross Pet Preparedness Resources
Pet First Aid App (Free in your app store)

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 content, just a name that fits better.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Please support the show here!

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

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real problems with practical pet care advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money on pet food at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easier, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households running smoothly. We also share expert tips for pet budgeting, managing dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and keeping your home clean with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need, so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro

Are you expecting a baby and wondering how your dog will handle the change?

Many pet parents wait until the baby arrives to deal with problems—but by then, it’s often too late.

The truth is, introducing your dog to a newborn without prep can cause stress, anxiety, or even behavior issues. But with the right tools and training, you can set everyone up for success.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:
✔️ Why the biggest issue is usually miscommunication between partners—not the dog
✔️ How to read your dog’s stress signals before they escalate
✔️ What to do now to help your dog feel safe, confident, and calm before baby comes home

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, share it to your Instagram stories and tag me, @YOURSOCIALHANDLE!

While you’re there, make sure you follow me on Instagram so you can see behind the scenes of how I help pet parents ditch the chaos and live better with their animals—and how you can too.

CONNECT WITH AILEEN CRONIN
Instagram: @babypackleader | Website: www.babypackleader.com

LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
Facebook: @AmyCastroSpeaker | Website: www.starlightoutreachandrescue.org

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Use code STARLIGHT when purchasing Aileen’s “Bringing Home Baby” program to donate 50% of the sale to help animals at Starlight Outreach and 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 content, just a name that fits better.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Please support the show here!

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

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real problems with practical pet care advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money on pet food at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easier, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households running smoothly. We also share expert tips for pet budgeting, managing dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and keeping your home clean with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need, so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro

Ever feel like your pet is reacting to your stress, anxiety, or energy?

Many pet parents don’t realize their own emotional state could be causing unwanted behaviors.

By building emotional intelligence and using a few simple tools, you can create a calmer, more connected relationship with your pet.

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

• How your emotional state influences your pet’s mood and behavior
• Simple heart-focused breathing techniques to create calm and connection
• Why emotional intelligence is the missing piece in your pet parenting toolkit

CONNECT WITH AMY BUDD
Instagram: @wholeheartranch
Website: https://www.wholeheartranch.com/

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
HeartMath Techniques: www.heartmath.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 content, just a name that fits better

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Please support the show here!

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

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real problems with practical pet care advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money on pet food at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easier, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households running smoothly. We also share expert tips for pet budgeting, managing dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and keeping your home clean with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need, so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro

Confused about which vaccines your pet really needs? You’re not alone.
With conflicting advice and growing concerns about side effects, making informed decisions around pet vaccinations can feel overwhelming.

In this episode, I’m joined by veterinarian and author Dr. Jeff Grognet, who breaks down what core and non-core vaccines actually do, what risks you should consider, and how to customize a vaccine schedule that fits your pet—not a one-size-fits-all plan.

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

• How to tell the difference between core and non-core vaccines
• What side effects and risks to watch for, including tumors and immune issues
• Why talking openly with your vet is key to smarter vaccination decisions

This episode gives you the clarity and confidence to make the best choices for your pet’s health—without the guesswork.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Dr. Jeff Grognet – NewEarthVet.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.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Please support the show here!

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

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real problems with practical pet care advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money on pet food at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easier, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households running smoothly. We also share expert tips for pet budgeting, managing dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and keeping your home clean with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need, so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro

What do you do when the worst happens and your pet crosses the Rainbow Bridge?
For many pet parents, navigating the grief and logistics of pet aftercare is overwhelming, especially if they’ve never faced it before.

In this episode, I’m joined by Gia Kondakor, director of Pet Loss Services at McAlister-Smith Funeral Home, to talk about what happens after a pet dies and the choices you have to honor them with care and dignity.

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

• The differences between individual, partition, and communal cremation
• How memorial services can provide healing and closure
• Unique ways to honor your pet’s memory, from keepsake jewelry to creative art

If you’ve ever faced or are preparing for losing a beloved pet, this episode will help you make informed, compassionate choices you can feel good about.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Gia Kondakor – McAlister-Smith Pet Loss Services

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.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Please support the show here!

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

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real problems with practical pet care advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money on pet food at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easier, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households running smoothly. We also share expert tips for pet budgeting, managing dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and keeping your home clean with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need, so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro

What does it really take to turn your passion for pets into a thriving business?
A lot of people dive in headfirst, only to find out too late that love for animals isn’t enough.

In this episode, I talk with Eliza Burr, a seasoned pet business coach and host of Off the Leash with the Pet Business Coach, about what most aspiring pet entrepreneurs get wrong—and how to set yourself up for success.

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

• Common myths and mindset traps that keep new pet businesses stuck
• How to set smart goals and create systems that support your growth
• Why hiring a coach could be the game-changer you didn’t know you needed

Whether you’re dreaming of a doggy daycare or already juggling clients, this episode will help you build a business that works for you and the animals you love.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Eliza Burr
 Instagram: @thepetbusinesscoach
Website: https://www.thepetbusinesscoach.dog

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.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Please support the show here!

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

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real problems with practical pet care advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money on pet food at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easier, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households running smoothly. We also share expert tips for pet budgeting, managing dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and keeping your home clean with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need, so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro

What if cuddling your dog or cat could lower your blood pressure and improve your mental health?
Too many people think of pets as “just” companions, but research shows they do much more.

In this episode, I sit down with Lindsey Braun, Vice President of Research and Operations at The Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), to uncover what science says about the power of pets in our lives. From emotional support to measurable health improvements, the human-animal bond is more than real, it’s revolutionary.

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

• How pets boost your physical and emotional health
• What makes a pet different from an emotional support, service, or therapy animal
• How HABRI is driving research and changing policies to support pet-friendly living

Whether you’re a pet parent, policy maker, or just curious about the science behind why pets make life better, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible when we honor the human-animal connection.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

The Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI)
 Website: https://habri.org
Research and News: https://habri.org/research

Preventive Vet
 Website: https://www.preventivevet.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.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent living with chaos and leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Please support the show here!

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

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real problems with practical pet care advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money on pet food at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easier, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households running smoothly. We also share expert tips for pet budgeting, managing dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and keeping your home clean with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need, so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro