Pet Parenting Lifestyle Episodes

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…

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 TIM…

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…

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…

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 …

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 sto…

Ever wonder what life is really like for a cat in a rescue or shelter? In this behind-the-scenes episode, Amy Castro takes you through a day in the life of a rescue cat—from the moment they arrive to the moment they’re ready for a forever home. You’ll get an inside look at the challenges, the heart…

Thinking about bringing home a bunny? Here’s what most people get wrong. In this eye-opening episode, Amy Castro speaks with Marcy Berman, founder of Save a Bunny Rabbit Rescue, to reveal the often misunderstood truth about rabbits as pets. From spaying and neutering to behavioral quirks, medical n…

Are you giving your pet everything they need to truly thrive? In Part 2 of our series with UK veterinarian and animal welfare advocate Dr. Emma Milne, Amy Castro explores the final two of the five legally recognized pet welfare needs. These last two—companionship and the ability to express natural …

Are you meeting all 5 of your pet’s welfare needs—or just the basics? In this powerful first episode of a two-part series, Amy Castro teams up with renowned UK veterinarian and animal welfare advocate Dr. Emma Milne to explore the often-overlooked foundations of pet care. In Part 1, they tackle the…

Want to be a better pet parent this year—but not sure where to start? In this playful and practical kickoff to Season 2, Amy Castro and Bev share 10 powerful resolutions every pet parent should consider. Whether you’ve made your list or need a few fresh ideas, this episode offers simple, meaningful…

Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy Wrapping up S…

Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy To help you g…

Caught in the middle of the “Adopt Don’t Shop” debate? Here’s what you really need to know before getting your next dog. In this balanced and thought-provoking episode, Amy Castro sits down with AKC judge and Siberian Husky e...

What makes a service dog a lifeline for veterans and first responders? In this powerful episode, Amy Castro is joined by Joe Gionti, CEO of K9 Heroes 4 Heroes, to explore how service dogs are changing lives for trauma survivors. From PTSD to physical injury, these dogs are trained to support and em…

Would you be able to cover a $5,000 emergency vet bill today? In this episode, Amy Castro talks with Kristin Lynch, Executive Director of the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA), about how pet insurance can help protect both your finances and your pet's life when unexpected med…

Think your pet’s microchip is keeping them safe? It might not be. In this episode, Amy Castro talks with Dr. Matt Goetz, DVM, MBA from Merck Animal Health, the company behind HomeAgain microchips, to reveal what most pet parents don’t realize about microchipping. From missing registrations to false…

Could your holiday celebrations put your pets in danger? In this festive and essential episode, Amy Castro teams up with emergency veterinarian Dr. Tyler Sugerman-McGiffin to share practical ways to protect your pets during the holidays. From dangerous foods and décor to managing loud guests and fi…

Not sure who should care for your pet while you're away? In this episode, Amy Castro teams up with veterinarian Dr. Aresue Shokrollahi-McClain (aka Dr. Zoo) to explore the pros and cons of hiring a pet sitter versus using a boarding facility. They break down what matters most when deciding—your pet…

Planning to bring your pet along for an overnight visit for the holidays or any time? In this episode, Amy Castro is joined by master trainer Connie Archer from Barkbusters Home Dog Training in Houston to share must-know strategies for staying at someone else’s home with your pet. Whether it’s a we…

Tired of Wasting Money on Pet Products That Don’t Work? If you’ve ever bought a pet bed your dog wouldn’t touch or a cleaner that didn’t stand a chance against cat pee, this episode is for you. In this episode, I’m sharing the top 20 must-have pet products that have made life at Starlight Outreach …

Can mushrooms really help with your pet’s allergies, anxiety, or immune issues? In this enlightening episode, Amy Castro chats with Dr. Rob Silver, veterinarian and expert in herbal medicine, to explore the growing field of medicinal mushrooms for pets. You’ll learn how natural remedies like reishi…

Think you know what goes into starting and running a rescue? Think again. In this powerful episode, Amy Castro sits down with Holly Dool, president of CAMO Rescue in Texas, to reveal the behind-the-scenes reality of leading an animal rescue. From making heartbreaking decisions to celebrating hard-w…

Ever wondered if your dog has what it takes to become a therapy dog? In this uplifting episode, Amy Castro sits down with Sandy Weaver, a therapy dog expert and professional trainer, to unpack what really goes into therapy dog work. From how dogs are chosen and trained, to the powerful emotional co…