What if helping animals could also grow your business?
In this special crossover episode, I’m interviewed by Eliza Burr on Off the Leash with the Pet Business Coach. We dive into what makes a partnership between a pet business and an animal rescue not only possible, but powerful.
You’ll hear practical strategies for building collaborations that serve both your mission and your bottom line—without sacrificing one for the other.

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

• How to approach rescues with a win-win partnership proposal
• Why alignment, professionalism, and formal agreements are critical
• How businesses and rescues can drive real impact through social media, events, and merchandise

Whether you're a petpreneur looking to stand out or a rescue leader ready to grow, this episode will show you how collaboration can fuel purpose, profit, and real change for animals in need.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• The Pet Business Coach – Coaching and services for pet-based entrepreneurs
• Starlight Outreach and Rescue

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 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 when you hit the road with a rescue dog—and everything goes wrong?
In this episode, I share the story of my 1,672-mile journey from Texas to New York with my best friend Bev and a sweet rescue dog named Bonnie. From a hurricane reroute to car trouble, sketchy hotel rooms, and a surprise stop in Memphis during Elvis Week, this adoption road trip was anything but smooth, but absolutely unforgettable.

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

• What it really takes to rehome rescue dogs hundreds of miles away
• How to manage a pet’s anxiety and well-being during long-distance travel
• Why flexibility, humor, and a little luck matter in animal rescue and transporting rescue dogs

We also give a shoutout to Dr. Linda Atkins from Valley Cottage Animal Hospital, who helped us ensure Bonnie’s transition was medically sound and emotionally supportive. With stories from Gettysburg, Valley Forge, and more, this episode is packed with adventure, heart, and lessons in what it takes to find the perfect forever home for a deserving rescue dog.

SHOUTOUTS IN THIS EPISODE:

• Valley Cottage Animal Hospital
• TripAdvisor
• Chrysler Pacifica

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we fully embraced 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

Does your dog panic when you leave the house? You’re not alone—and you’re not stuck.
In this episode, I sit down with expert dog trainer Ruth Hegarty to break down one of the most misunderstood issues in dog behavior: separation anxiety. We cut through the myths, talk about what really helps, and give you practical steps you can start using today.

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

• How to tell the difference between true separation anxiety and other behavior issues
• Why early intervention matters more than you think
• Ruth’s proven techniques for creating a calming routine and building your dog’s confidence

Whether your dog is barking, pacing, destroying furniture, or simply miserable when you're gone, this episode will give you the insight and tools to help them feel more secure—and give you some peace of mind too.

LEARN MORE ABOUT RUTH HEGARTY:
Creature Good Dog Training

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED:

• EMBARK DNA Tests

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 fully embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same 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

Worried about the rising cost of caring for your pet? You’re not alone.
In this episode, I sit down with Jonathan Wainberg, Senior VP of Synchrony Financial Services’ Pet Business, to talk about how pet parents can prepare for unexpected costs and avoid financial panic when their pets need care most. From budgeting strategies to understanding pet insurance and CareCredit, Jonathan shares practical, no-fluff advice to help you make smarter decisions for your pets and your wallet.

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

• What most pet parents don’t expect when it comes to healthcare costs
• How to budget for vet bills including routine and emergency care
• Which tools, like insurance, credit lines, and nonprofit support, can ease financial pressure

You’ll also learn how breed-specific needs, vet relationships, and advance planning can help you stay ahead of costs and give your pet the care they deserve without unnecessary stress.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Read Synchrony’s Pet Lifetime of Care Study

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our original name before we fully embraced 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 if your pet’s health problems aren’t the real problem—but just the symptoms?
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Marlene Siegel, a leading voice in bioregulatory veterinary medicine. She shares her holistic, root-cause approach to extending your pet’s life and improving their day-to-day well-being. From food and water to detox and emotional health, Dr. Siegel’s five-step system challenges what most pet parents think they know about pet care.

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

• Why inflammation is often the real root of chronic disease
• How species-appropriate diets and clean water support long-term wellness
• What role toxins, environment, and emotional balance play in your pet’s health

If you’re tired of chasing symptoms and ready to take a more informed, preventive approach, this episode will help you start making changes that matter.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Learn more about Dr. Siegel: www.drmarlenesiegel.com
• Courses and free e-book: www.transformingvetmedicine.com

SPECIAL OFFER:
The first 10 people who purchase Dr. Siegel’s Pet Parent Course, post a photo of their receipt on Instagram, and tag @drmarlenesiegel using #starlight will receive a free 15-minute online consult.

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we fully embraced 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

You don’t even have to own a pet to benefit from one.
In this episode, I sit down with psychologist and communication coach Dr. Denise M. Dudley to explore the powerful ways pets improve our emotional and physical health. Whether you’re living with a dog, cat, or just spending time around animals, you’ll learn why their presence is more than comforting. It’s healing.

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

• How pets reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and boost mood
• Why pets are powerful tools against loneliness and isolation
• How animals help us build stronger social connections and spark creativity

From hormonal changes to meaningful companionship, this episode dives into the science and heart behind why animals make us feel more human.

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we fully embraced 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

Tired of your dog barking nonstop, pulling on the leash, or your dog chewing everything in sight?
In this episode, I’m joined by dog training expert Ruth Hegarty to break down the most common behavior problems pet parents face and dog training tips to help fix them using positive, effective methods. From recall issues to destructive chewing, Ruth shares practical strategies that work for real-life households.

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

• Why your dog pulls on the leash or barks excessively
• Simple ways to improve recall and reduce jumping or your dog chewing everything in sight!
• How to make dog training part of your daily routine
• Why understanding your dog’s breed and personality makes all the difference

If your dog’s behavior is driving you up the wall and you've run out of dog training tips that work, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on and how to turn things around, without stress or punishment.

LEARN MORE FROM RUTH HEGARTY:

• Dog Training Programs
• Free Resource Library

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

LOOKING FOR A GREAT CRATE? I focused on benefits in this episode, but one of my top picks is Impact Dog Crates. They’re an investment, but built to last a lifetime of safety and security for your dog. 

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

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 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

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 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

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 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