Love is important—but it’s not always enough.
If you’re thinking about adopting a rescue dog, especially one with a traumatic past or behavioral challenges, this episode will help you go in with eyes wide open.

I’m joined by canine behavior consultant Kate LaSala, who has worked with over 2,600 clients and knows what it really takes to help fearful or reactive rescue dogs thrive. Together, we talk about what rescue dogs need beyond love, like structure, patience, and clear expectations.

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

• Why transparency from rescue organizations is critical to adoption success
• What to expect when adopting a “project rescue dog” and how to set realistic goals
• How trauma, genetics, and early socialization impact long-term behavior

If you’re ready to make a lasting difference in a rescue dog's life, this conversation offers the guidance, honesty, and encouragement you need to do it right.

LEARN MORE ABOUT KATE LASALA:
Visit rescuedbytraining.com to access Kate’s free handouts, infographics, dog training tips, blog, and 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 content, just a name that fits better now.

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 someone navigating the chaos of pet parenting, and please leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet advice they need.

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

Pet parenting gets overwhelming fast, especially with behavior issues, rising costs, and conflicting advice. This show gives you pet care solutions, pet behavior help, and pet budgeting tips you can use right away.

Each week brings clear pet parenting advice plus expert guidance on dog and cat behavior, dog training, nutrition, stress free vet visits, and routines that make life easier. We also tackle issues like cat anxiety, emergency vet decisions, hidden hazards, and how to stay ahead of the everyday problems that create stress for pets and their people.

No fluff, no guilt, just practical tools that save money and help you enjoy a calmer home and life with pets.

Follow so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying your pets again.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Holiday photos, family visits, colder weather - your pet’s grooming routine matters more than ever this season.
In this episode, I sit down with Julia Benning, Lead Grooming Advisor for Well Groomed Pets and a Fear-Free Certified Groomer, to talk about how grooming impacts not just your pet’s appearance but their overall health and comfort.
Whether you’re prepping for your pet’s first grooming appointment or managing a high-maintenance doodle coat, this episode is your go-to guide for stress-free holiday grooming.

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

• How to prepare your pet for their first grooming visit
• Why winter grooming is different and what your pet’s coat really needs
• DIY dog grooming tips for beginners for avoiding matting and keeping your pet’s skin healthy
• What to know about scheduling, especially during busy holiday months

Give your pet the gift of comfort and care this season with advice that makes every trip to the groomer easier on both of you.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Well Groomed Pets – Find a location near you
• Our Favorite Products – Tools and grooming products Julia recommends

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we leaned into the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same show, better name.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with someone navigating the chaos of pet parenting, and please leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet advice they need.

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

Pet parenting gets overwhelming fast, especially with behavior issues, rising costs, and conflicting advice. This show gives you pet care solutions, pet behavior help, and pet budgeting tips you can use right away.

Each week brings clear pet parenting advice plus expert guidance on dog and cat behavior, dog training, nutrition, stress free vet visits, and routines that make life easier. We also tackle issues like cat anxiety, emergency vet decisions, hidden hazards, and how to stay ahead of the everyday problems that create stress for pets and their people.

No fluff, no guilt, just practical tools that save money and help you enjoy a calmer home and life with pets.

Follow so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying your pets again.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

What if your local dog park wasn’t just a place to play—but a thriving community built for both pets and people?
In this episode, I talk with Ramy Saleh, CEO of Zoomies Dog Park, about how he’s reshaping the dog park experience from the ground up. From behavior assessments and vaccination requirements to play zones and social events, Zoomies is setting a new standard for safe, enriching spaces where dogs and humans connect.
Ramy shares his personal journey from Cairo to Houston and explains how his love for dogs inspired a bigger mission—to build a true community hub that’s as much for people as it is for pets.

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

• Why Zoomies’ behavior assessments and members-only system create a safer park experience
• The thoughtful design elements that support canine instincts and human comfort
• How dog parks can become powerful community spaces that go beyond fetch and frisbees

From workshops to partnerships with rescues, Zoomies is on a mission to make dog ownership easier, more connected, and more joyful for everyone involved.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ZOOMIES DOG PARK:
www.zoomiesparks.com

SHOUTOUTS IN THIS EPISODE:

• KG Barbeque, Austin, Texas
• Concept Neighborhood

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our previous name before we leaned into the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content, just a better fit now.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with someone navigating the chaos of pet parenting, and please leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet advice they need.

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

Pet parenting gets overwhelming fast, especially with behavior issues, rising costs, and conflicting advice. This show gives you pet care solutions, pet behavior help, and pet budgeting tips you can use right away.

Each week brings clear pet parenting advice plus expert guidance on dog and cat behavior, dog training, nutrition, stress free vet visits, and routines that make life easier. We also tackle issues like cat anxiety, emergency vet decisions, hidden hazards, and how to stay ahead of the everyday problems that create stress for pets and their people.

No fluff, no guilt, just practical tools that save money and help you enjoy a calmer home and life with pets.

Follow so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying your pets again.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

What if every bottle of wine you opened also helped save a rescue dog’s life?
In this episode, I talk with Blair Lott, co-founder of Rescue Dog Wines, about how he and his wife Laura turned their passion for wine into a mission-driven business that gives back to animal rescue efforts nationwide.
From a successful music career to a new life in Northern California’s wine country, Blair shares how they built a brand that blends quality winemaking with deep purpose—and how each bottle sold supports shelters and rescue groups across the U.S.

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

• How Blair and Laura use their business to fund real animal welfare work
• What it takes to run a mission-first winery and navigate the world of wine legislation
• Why fostering pets changed their lives and how it might change yours too

You’ll also hear a sneak peek at what’s ahead, including Rescue Dog Month initiatives, natural disaster support campaigns, and even a possible new cat-themed wine line. This episode is filled with inspiration for anyone who loves pets, rescue dogs, wine, or making a difference.

LEARN MORE ABOUT RESCUE DOG WINES:
www.rescuedogwines.com

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 better fit now.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with someone navigating the chaos of pet parenting, and please leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet advice they need.

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

Pet parenting gets overwhelming fast, especially with behavior issues, rising costs, and conflicting advice. This show gives you pet care solutions, pet behavior help, and pet budgeting tips you can use right away.

Each week brings clear pet parenting advice plus expert guidance on dog and cat behavior, dog training, nutrition, stress free vet visits, and routines that make life easier. We also tackle issues like cat anxiety, emergency vet decisions, hidden hazards, and how to stay ahead of the everyday problems that create stress for pets and their people.

No fluff, no guilt, just practical tools that save money and help you enjoy a calmer home and life with pets.

Follow so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying your pets again.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

What if the way you’ve been taught to train your dog is creating more problems?
In this episode, I speak with Angie Winters, author of "Don't Train Your Dog," about why traditional dog training tips and methods often fall short and what to do instead. Drawing from over 20 years of experience in dog rehabilitation and parenting, Angie shares how forming an emotional bond and setting clear expectations can lead to better behavior than fear or bribery ever could.

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

• Why understanding your dog’s emotional needs matters more than teaching commands
• How parenting principles like leadership, boundaries, and emotional neutrality translate to dogs
• Practical ways to guide your dog with calm authority and deeper connection

If you’ve ever felt like regular dog training and dog training tips we'rent working for you, or if you're raising a “difficult” dog, this conversation will help you rethink everything and give you the tools to create a more respectful, peaceful relationship.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ANGIE WINTERS:
Website: parenting4dogs.com
Book: Don’t Train Your Dog on Amazon

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our previous name before we fully embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same great content—just with a name that fits.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with someone navigating the chaos of pet parenting, and please leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet advice they need.

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

Pet parenting gets overwhelming fast, especially with behavior issues, rising costs, and conflicting advice. This show gives you pet care solutions, pet behavior help, and pet budgeting tips you can use right away.

Each week brings clear pet parenting advice plus expert guidance on dog and cat behavior, dog training, nutrition, stress free vet visits, and routines that make life easier. We also tackle issues like cat anxiety, emergency vet decisions, hidden hazards, and how to stay ahead of the everyday problems that create stress for pets and their people.

No fluff, no guilt, just practical tools that save money and help you enjoy a calmer home and life with pets.

Follow so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying your pets again.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Ever wondered what it’s really like to dedicate your life to saving animals?
In this special episode, I’m the guest on The Story of My Pet podcast, hosted by Julie Marty-Pearson. I share my journey from a childhood encounter with a feral cat named Snippy to founding Starlight Outreach and Rescue and committing my life to animal rescue.
This conversation offers a raw, honest look at the emotional weight, daily chaos, and deep joy that come with being an animal rescuer.

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

• What inspired me to start Starlight Outreach and Rescue
• The challenges and rewards of fostering, including how to care for abandoned kittens
• The emotional toll of rescue work—and why we keep showing up anyway

Whether you’re in the rescue world or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this episode will give you an inside look at the sacrifices, passion, and grit it takes to be a rescuer.

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our original name before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content, new name that fits.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with someone navigating the chaos of pet parenting, and please leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet advice they need.

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

Pet parenting gets overwhelming fast, especially with behavior issues, rising costs, and conflicting advice. This show gives you pet care solutions, pet behavior help, and pet budgeting tips you can use right away.

Each week brings clear pet parenting advice plus expert guidance on dog and cat behavior, dog training, nutrition, stress free vet visits, and routines that make life easier. We also tackle issues like cat anxiety, emergency vet decisions, hidden hazards, and how to stay ahead of the everyday problems that create stress for pets and their people.

No fluff, no guilt, just practical tools that save money and help you enjoy a calmer home and life with pets.

Follow so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying your pets again.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Ever wonder what your dog is thinking—or how much they really understand?
In this episode, I talk with Jennifer S. Holland, New York Times bestselling author of Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence. We explore the fascinating science behind canine cognition, from their superpowered sense of smell to how they adapt to our routines, emotions, and environments.
You’ll walk away with a new appreciation for just how intelligent and emotionally attuned your dog truly is.

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

• How dogs use scent to interpret the world and even detect human emotion
• Why intelligence isn’t about breed—it’s about the bond and environment
• The subtle signals your dog is using to communicate with you every day

We also discuss how life changes like moving, routine shifts, or early training experiences impact your dog’s behavior—and what you can do to better support their development.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Buy Dog Smart
• Connect with Jennifer S. Holland
• EMBARK DNA Tests

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.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with someone navigating the chaos of pet parenting, and please leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet advice they need.

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

Pet parenting gets overwhelming fast, especially with behavior issues, rising costs, and conflicting advice. This show gives you pet care solutions, pet behavior help, and pet budgeting tips you can use right away.

Each week brings clear pet parenting advice plus expert guidance on dog and cat behavior, dog training, nutrition, stress free vet visits, and routines that make life easier. We also tackle issues like cat anxiety, emergency vet decisions, hidden hazards, and how to stay ahead of the everyday problems that create stress for pets and their people.

No fluff, no guilt, just practical tools that save money and help you enjoy a calmer home and life with pets.

Follow so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying your pets again.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

What makes a community celebration truly unforgettable? Love—and pets.
In this episode, I talk with Father Justin Briggle of Good Shepherd Episcopal Church about the story behind Harvest PawFest, a joyful festival created to honor the deep bond between pets and their people.
Originally an Oktoberfest-style event, Harvest PawFest has grown into a heartwarming community tradition centered on animal blessings, family fun, and the unique connection we share with our pets.

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

• How one local event became a meaningful celebration of animals and togetherness
• The planning, stories, and surprises behind pet blessings—from dogs to hedgehogs
• Why community events like this create stronger bonds between people and pets

This episode is filled with warmth, laughter, and thoughtful moments that will make you appreciate the role pets play in connecting us all. Whether you're an animal lover or a community builder, you’ll walk away inspired.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HARVEST PAWFEST:
Harvest PawFest on Facebook

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our original name before we embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content, just a name that fits.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with someone navigating the chaos of pet parenting, and please leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet advice they need.

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

Pet parenting gets overwhelming fast, especially with behavior issues, rising costs, and conflicting advice. This show gives you pet care solutions, pet behavior help, and pet budgeting tips you can use right away.

Each week brings clear pet parenting advice plus expert guidance on dog and cat behavior, dog training, nutrition, stress free vet visits, and routines that make life easier. We also tackle issues like cat anxiety, emergency vet decisions, hidden hazards, and how to stay ahead of the everyday problems that create stress for pets and their people.

No fluff, no guilt, just practical tools that save money and help you enjoy a calmer home and life with pets.

Follow so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying your pets again.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Could your pet’s toys, bowls, or containers be quietly harming their health?
In this episode, I talk with Aidan Charron from EarthDay.org about the alarming findings in the Pets vs Plastics report—and what every pet parent needs to know. From cancer-linked chemicals to industry blind spots, this conversation sheds light on the hidden dangers of plastics in pet products and how you can protect the animals you love.

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

• What chemicals like BPA and phthalates are doing to your pets
• Why the pet product industry is largely unregulated when it comes to safety
• Practical steps you can take to reduce plastic exposure in your home

You’ll also learn how your purchasing power can influence positive change and how international efforts to reduce plastic waste could reshape the pet care industry.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Read the Pets vs Plastics Report – EarthDay.org
• TruthAboutPetFood.org – Learn what’s really in your pet’s food

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our original name before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content—just a name that fits better.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with someone navigating the chaos of pet parenting, and please leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet advice they need.

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

Pet parenting gets overwhelming fast, especially with behavior issues, rising costs, and conflicting advice. This show gives you pet care solutions, pet behavior help, and pet budgeting tips you can use right away.

Each week brings clear pet parenting advice plus expert guidance on dog and cat behavior, dog training, nutrition, stress free vet visits, and routines that make life easier. We also tackle issues like cat anxiety, emergency vet decisions, hidden hazards, and how to stay ahead of the everyday problems that create stress for pets and their people.

No fluff, no guilt, just practical tools that save money and help you enjoy a calmer home and life with pets.

Follow so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying your pets again.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

What happens to a pet when their military family is suddenly deployed?
In this episode, I talk with Alisa Sieber-Johnson, co-founder of Dogs on Deployment, a nonprofit that connects military members and first responders with volunteer pet boarders across the country.
Born out of her own experience as a dual-military family with no options for pet care, Alisa turned a personal challenge into a national movement—ensuring no pet has to be surrendered due to deployment.

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

• How Dogs on Deployment supports military families through fostering and financial aid
• Why volunteers are the heart of the program—and how you can help
• The inspiring story of a Marine pilot turned passionate pet foster

This episode is a powerful reminder of how community, compassion, and smart systems can come together to protect the human–animal bond, even in the most uncertain circumstances.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DOGS ON DEPLOYMENT:
Website: www.dogsondeployment.org
Facebook: DogsonDeployment
X: @DogsonDeploymnt
Instagram: @dogsondeployment

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we decided to fully embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content, just with a name that fits better.

Support the show

Love the show? Share it with someone navigating the chaos of pet parenting, and please leave a 5-star review so others can find the pet advice they need.

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

Pet parenting gets overwhelming fast, especially with behavior issues, rising costs, and conflicting advice. This show gives you pet care solutions, pet behavior help, and pet budgeting tips you can use right away.

Each week brings clear pet parenting advice plus expert guidance on dog and cat behavior, dog training, nutrition, stress free vet visits, and routines that make life easier. We also tackle issues like cat anxiety, emergency vet decisions, hidden hazards, and how to stay ahead of the everyday problems that create stress for pets and their people.

No fluff, no guilt, just practical tools that save money and help you enjoy a calmer home and life with pets.

Follow so you can stop chasing your tail and start enjoying your pets again.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro