Pet Care Basics 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…

Facing the end of your pet’s life and unsure how to make it peaceful and meaningful? Many pet parents struggle with how to honor their pet’s final chapter while navigating guilt, fear, and overwhelming grief. In this episode, Amy talks with Dr. Mary Gardner from Lap of Love about how in-home hospic…

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 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…

What’s it really like for a dog living in a rescue or shelter? In this eye-opening episode, Amy Castro is joined by Donna Ball of Ranger’s Reach to reveal what life is like for dogs inside a rescue—from intake and daily care to rehabilitation and adoption prep. You’ll hear the real, unfiltered stor…

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…

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...

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…

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…

Curious about getting a rabbit, bird, turtle—or even a snake? In this episode, Amy Castro sits down with veteran veterinarian Dr. Linda Atkins to explore what it really takes to care for small pets. From creating safe habitats to understanding species-specific needs, this is your go-to guide for ma…

Feel like your dog’s forgotten everything they’ve ever learned? In this episode, Amy Castro sits down with canine cognitive behavioral expert Billy Groom to explore why perfectly trained puppies often become disobedient “teenagers”—and what to do about it. If your dog suddenly won’t come when calle…

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 ch…

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 surr…

Thinking about adding a pet to your life, but not sure if now is the right time? Too many pets end up surrendered because their humans didn’t think it through. Whether you're adopting your first pet or adding a new furry face to your pack, this episode walks you through 10 critical questions every …