Muddy Paws and Hairballs – Détails, épisodes et analyse

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

In this episode, we unlock the secrets to thriving pet businesses and animal rescues when Amy is interviewed on the Off the Leash with the Pet Business Coach podcast, hosted by Pet Business Coach Eliza Burr. Amy and Eliza reveal strategic insights on forming powerful, mutually beneficial partnerships between pet businesses and animal rescues. Learn how these alliances can drive both business success and rescue efforts, with Amy sharing invaluable tips on generating income, handling donations, and leveraging merchandise sales. Discover the critical importance of shared goals and how to create win-win scenarios that elevate both your business and the welfare of animals.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Essential steps for establishing successful business-rescue collaborations: From conducting thorough research to ensure alignment with your brand image, to the pitfalls of partnering with poorly managed rescues.
• How to create alliances through a well-prepared proposition, effective social media collaboration, and event hosting.
• The importance of formalizing these partnerships with contracts to ensure clarity and commitment.

Tune in for actionable advice on maintaining open communication, holding regular meetings, and adapting to evolving goals—because when businesses and rescues work together seamlessly, everyone benefits, especially the animals.

For more information about starting or growing your pet business, check out The Pet Business Coach services at:
www.thepetbusinesscoach.dog

To learn more about Starlight Outreach and Rescue, visit their website at:

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at Amy@StarlightPetTalk.com

Starting Sunday, April 27, 2025, we’re switching things up—new episodes will now drop every Sunday instead of Tuesday!

Why the change? Because Sundays just feel better. Quieter mornings, fewer midweek distractions, and a better chance to catch up with your favorite pet podcast (aka us 😎).

Set your alarms (or don’t—we’ll be waiting patiently like a well-trained Golden Retriever 🐾) every Sunday morning starting at 8AM EST / 7AM CST.

Support the show

✅ Subscribe to Muddy Paws and Hairballs for real talk and expert advice on pet care.
✅ Share this episode to help more pet parents navigate life with their pets.

💬 We’d Love to Hear from You! Got thoughts on this episode or a topic you want covered? Leave a review or comment—we value your feedback!

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

📩 Contact: Amy@muddypawsandhairballs.com

Thanks for listening to Muddy Paws and Hairballs, your go-to resource for all things pet care. From dog training, behavior, and socialization to cat enrichment, pet adoption, and tackling behavior problems, we provide expert advice and real talk to help you create a happy, healthy life with your pets. Whether you're dealing with dog anxiety, looking for puppy training tips, or exploring enrichment ideas for your cat, we've got you covered. Be sure to check out all our episodes!

Hey there!
In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing 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

What happens when a hurricane derails your plans, your car breaks down, and you end up in a sketchy hotel? Join us on an epic 1,672-mile journey from Texas to New York, where my best friend Bev and I, Amy Castro, faced these challenges and more—all in the name of finding the perfect forever home for Bonnie, a lovable rescue dog.

Our adventure was filled with unexpected detours, hilarious mishaps, and heartwarming moments as we stayed committed to Bonnie’s welfare every step of the way. From flat tires in New Jersey to navigating pet-friendly hotels with questionable conditions, we tackled it all with determination and a bit of humor. Alongside Dr. Linda Atkins of Valley Cottage Animal Hospital, we ensured that Bonnie’s new home was just right, despite the many obstacles we encountered.

Ever wonder what it takes to secure a loving home for a rescue animal? We’ll dive into the creative strategies we used to expand Bonnie’s adoption reach, including alternate addresses and rigorous vetting of potential adopters. Plus, hear how we managed Bonnie’s anxiety during her first-ever road trip and why our unexpected stop in Memphis during Elvis Week turned into an unforgettable experience.

From spontaneous visits to historical sites like Valley Forge and Gettysburg to the emotional and logistical challenges of saying goodbye to Bonnie, this episode is packed with stories that highlight the dedication and flexibility required in rescue work. Whether you’re a pet lover, a road trip enthusiast, or just in for a rollercoaster of emotions, laughter, and invaluable lessons in animal rescue and adoption, this episode has somet

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at Amy@StarlightPetTalk.com

Starting Sunday, April 27, 2025, we’re switching things up—new episodes will now drop every Sunday instead of Tuesday!

Why the change? Because Sundays just feel better. Quieter mornings, fewer midweek distractions, and a better chance to catch up with your favorite pet podcast (aka us 😎).

Set your alarms (or don’t—we’ll be waiting patiently like a well-trained Golden Retriever 🐾) every Sunday morning starting at 8AM EST / 7AM CST.

Support the show

✅ Subscribe to Muddy Paws and Hairballs for real talk and expert advice on pet care.
✅ Share this episode to help more pet parents navigate life with their pets.

💬 We’d Love to Hear from You! Got thoughts on this episode or a topic you want covered? Leave a review or comment—we value your feedback!

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

📩 Contact: Amy@muddypawsandhairballs.com

Thanks for listening to Muddy Paws and Hairballs, your go-to resource for all things pet care. From dog training, behavior, and socialization to cat enrichment, pet adoption, and tackling behavior problems, we provide expert advice and real talk to help you create a happy, healthy life with your pets. Whether you're dealing with dog anxiety, looking for puppy training tips, or exploring enrichment ideas for your cat, we've got you covered. Be sure to check out all our episodes!

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

In this episode, Amy discusses disaster preparedness for pets with Roxana Petzold from the American Red Cross.
They cover common disasters that pet parents need to prepare for, such as hurricanes and wildfires, and provide tips on how to make a plan, pack a go-bag, and stay informed during an evacuation. They also discuss the importance of microchipping pets, developing a buddy system, and training pets for emergencies. The American Red Cross offers a variety of resources and tools on their website, including a free pet first aid app.

Takeaways:

• Every pet parent should have a disaster preparedness plan in place, regardless of where you live.
• Make a plan, pack a go-bag, and stay informed during an evacuation.
• Microchip your pets and keep medical and other records up to date.
• Develop a buddy system with friends/family to support each other during disaster situations.
• Train your pets in basic commands and familiarize them with carriers and crates.
• Be sure to check out the American Red Cross resources and tools for pet owners on their website.

Learn more about the MANY Red Cross pet preparedness resources! 

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at Amy@StarlightPetTalk.com

Starting Sunday, April 27, 2025, we’re switching things up—new episodes will now drop every Sunday instead of Tuesday!

Why the change? Because Sundays just feel better. Quieter mornings, fewer midweek distractions, and a better chance to catch up with your favorite pet podcast (aka us 😎).

Set your alarms (or don’t—we’ll be waiting patiently like a well-trained Golden Retriever 🐾) every Sunday morning starting at 8AM EST / 7AM CST.

Support the show

✅ Subscribe to Muddy Paws and Hairballs for real talk and expert advice on pet care.
✅ Share this episode to help more pet parents navigate life with their pets.

💬 We’d Love to Hear from You! Got thoughts on this episode or a topic you want covered? Leave a review or comment—we value your feedback!

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

📩 Contact: Amy@muddypawsandhairballs.com

Thanks for listening to Muddy Paws and Hairballs, your go-to resource for all things pet care. From dog training, behavior, and socialization to cat enrichment, pet adoption, and tackling behavior problems, we provide expert advice and real talk to help you create a happy, healthy life with your pets. Whether you're dealing with dog anxiety, looking for puppy training tips, or exploring enrichment ideas for your cat, we've got you covered. Be sure to check out all our episodes!

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

Get ready for an insightful, in-depth episode as Amy sits down with Aileen Cronin, canine behavior consultant and Baby Pack Leader, to unpack the journey of preparing dogs for the arrival of a new human baby. Aileen, bringing her own experiences and expertise to the table, dispels the myths surrounding dogs and newborns and shares why proactive training and clear boundaries are essential to creating a peaceful household.

Together, Amy and Aileen dive deep into the essentials of pet adoption, highlighting the critical need for alignment and communication between partners. They offer hands-on advice for preparing both your pup and your home for the big change.

They also delve into the importance of spotting signs of stress to ensure comfort and safety for all. Plus, Aileen opens up about situations where rehoming might be the kindest option.

Tune in to ensure your home remains harmonious and happy for both two- and four-legged family members!

To learn more about Aileen's resources and the "Bringing Home Baby" program, go to www.BabyPackLeader.com.
Don’t forget to use the special discount code STARLIGHT so that 50% of each sale goes to help the animals at Starlight Outreach and Rescue, Amy's nonprofit animal rescue!

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at Amy@StarlightPetTalk.com

Starting Sunday, April 27, 2025, we’re switching things up—new episodes will now drop every Sunday instead of Tuesday!

Why the change? Because Sundays just feel better. Quieter mornings, fewer midweek distractions, and a better chance to catch up with your favorite pet podcast (aka us 😎).

Set your alarms (or don’t—we’ll be waiting patiently like a well-trained Golden Retriever 🐾) every Sunday morning starting at 8AM EST / 7AM CST.

Support the show

✅ Subscribe to Muddy Paws and Hairballs for real talk and expert advice on pet care.
✅ Share this episode to help more pet parents navigate life with their pets.

💬 We’d Love to Hear from You! Got thoughts on this episode or a topic you want covered? Leave a review or comment—we value your feedback!

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

📩 Contact: Amy@muddypawsandhairballs.com

Thanks for listening to Muddy Paws and Hairballs, your go-to resource for all things pet care. From dog training, behavior, and socialization to cat enrichment, pet adoption, and tackling behavior problems, we provide expert advice and real talk to help you create a happy, healthy life with your pets. Whether you're dealing with dog anxiety, looking for puppy training tips, or exploring enrichment ideas for your cat, we've got you covered. Be sure to check out all our episodes!

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

In this episode, Amy dives deep into the world of emotional intelligence and its profound impact on our interactions with pets. Joined by guest Amy Budd, an expert in emotional intelligence and HeartMath techniques, they discuss the critical role of awareness and regulating our own emotions before expecting our pets to regulate theirs. The conversation reveals how heart math techniques, like heart-focused breathing, can help manage emotions, enhance the bond with pets, and positively impact behavior. Discover the importance of being present, reframing negative thoughts, and fostering a mutual understanding as a pet parent.

Key Takeaways:

• Managing our emotions enhances interactions with pets.
• Discover heart-focused breathing and other strategies to strengthen your bond with pets.
• Understand the importance of reciprocity in pet ownership.
• See how emotional regulation positively impacts your pet's behavior.

Why Listen: This episode is a must-listen for pet parents who want to build stronger, more empathetic relationships with their pets. By mastering emotional intelligence, you can create a more harmonious environment for yourself and your pets. Tune in to learn actionable tips and techniques to transform your pet parenting journey.

To learn more about this subject or to work with Amy Budd, visit her website at: https://www.wholeheartranch.com/

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Emotional Intelligence and Pet Relationships

05:36
The Impact of Emotional Expression on Pets

09:21
Heart Math: The Role of the Heart in Emotional Regulation

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at Amy@StarlightPetTalk.com

Starting Sunday, April 27, 2025, we’re switching things up—new episodes will now drop every Sunday instead of Tuesday!

Why the change? Because Sundays just feel better. Quieter mornings, fewer midweek distractions, and a better chance to catch up with your favorite pet podcast (aka us 😎).

Set your alarms (or don’t—we’ll be waiting patiently like a well-trained Golden Retriever 🐾) every Sunday morning starting at 8AM EST / 7AM CST.

Support the show

✅ Subscribe to Muddy Paws and Hairballs for real talk and expert advice on pet care.
✅ Share this episode to help more pet parents navigate life with their pets.

💬 We’d Love to Hear from You! Got thoughts on this episode or a topic you want covered? Leave a review or comment—we value your feedback!

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

📩 Contact: Amy@muddypawsandhairballs.com

Thanks for listening to Muddy Paws and Hairballs, your go-to resource for all things pet care. From dog training, behavior, and socialization to cat enrichment, pet adoption, and tackling behavior problems, we provide expert advice and real talk to help you create a happy, healthy life with your pets. Whether you're dealing with dog anxiety, looking for puppy training tips, or exploring enrichment ideas for your cat, we've got you covered. Be sure to check out all our episodes!

Hey there!
In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing 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

In this episode, Amy interviews Dr. Jeff Grognet, a practicing veterinarian and author, to discuss the essential topic of pet vaccinations. They explore the differences between core and non-core vaccines, the risks of over-vaccination, and potential vaccine side effects. Dr. Grognet provides valuable insights on how to create a personalized vaccination schedule for your pet, considering factors like the risk of disease, the pet’s age, and their unique circumstances.

Key Takeaways:

• Core vaccines are essential for all pets, while non-core vaccines depend on risk factors and exposure.
• Vaccines can have potential side effects, such as allergic reactions, tumors, and immune system issues.
• Not all vaccines provide significant protection, and effectiveness may vary.
• Alternative options, like homeopathic nosodes, offer a holistic approach to pet care.
• Learn how to have open, informed conversations with veterinarians about your pet’s vaccination needs.

And more! Gain a better understanding of how to approach pet vaccination decisions to keep your furry friends safe and healthy.

Learn more about Dr. Jeff, his work, and his courses: www.newearthvet.com

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at Amy@StarlightPetTalk.com

Starting Sunday, April 27, 2025, we’re switching things up—new episodes will now drop every Sunday instead of Tuesday!

Why the change? Because Sundays just feel better. Quieter mornings, fewer midweek distractions, and a better chance to catch up with your favorite pet podcast (aka us 😎).

Set your alarms (or don’t—we’ll be waiting patiently like a well-trained Golden Retriever 🐾) every Sunday morning starting at 8AM EST / 7AM CST.

Support the show

✅ Subscribe to Muddy Paws and Hairballs for real talk and expert advice on pet care.
✅ Share this episode to help more pet parents navigate life with their pets.

💬 We’d Love to Hear from You! Got thoughts on this episode or a topic you want covered? Leave a review or comment—we value your feedback!

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

📩 Contact: Amy@muddypawsandhairballs.com

Thanks for listening to Muddy Paws and Hairballs, your go-to resource for all things pet care. From dog training, behavior, and socialization to cat enrichment, pet adoption, and tackling behavior problems, we provide expert advice and real talk to help you create a happy, healthy life with your pets. Whether you're dealing with dog anxiety, looking for puppy training tips, or exploring enrichment ideas for your cat, we've got you covered. Be sure to check out all our episodes!

Hey there!
In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing 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

This episode explores the aftercare options available for pets after they cross the Rainbow Bridge. Amy talks with Gia Kondakor, director of Pet Loss Services at McAllister Smith Funeral Home. They discuss the emotional challenges people face when their pets die and the importance of making informed decisions about pet aftercare. The episode covers topics such as cremation options (individual, partition, communal), memorial services, and unique ways to memorialize pets. Gia emphasizes the need for open conversations about pet loss and encourages pet parents to feel comfortable making decisions that honor their pets' memories.

Takeaways:

• Aftercare options for pets include cremation and burial.
• Cremation options include individual, partition, and communal cremation.
• Memorial services can provide closure and support for grieving pet parents.
• There are unique ways to memorialize pets, such as jewelry and art made from cremains.
• Open conversations about pet loss and aftercare are important for making informed decisions.

To get in touch with Gia or explore the pet aftercare options at McAlister-Smith, go to:

McAlister-Smith Pet Loss Services

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at Amy@StarlightPetTalk.com

Starting Sunday, April 27, 2025, we’re switching things up—new episodes will now drop every Sunday instead of Tuesday!

Why the change? Because Sundays just feel better. Quieter mornings, fewer midweek distractions, and a better chance to catch up with your favorite pet podcast (aka us 😎).

Set your alarms (or don’t—we’ll be waiting patiently like a well-trained Golden Retriever 🐾) every Sunday morning starting at 8AM EST / 7AM CST.

Support the show

✅ Subscribe to Muddy Paws and Hairballs for real talk and expert advice on pet care.
✅ Share this episode to help more pet parents navigate life with their pets.

💬 We’d Love to Hear from You! Got thoughts on this episode or a topic you want covered? Leave a review or comment—we value your feedback!

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

📩 Contact: Amy@muddypawsandhairballs.com

Thanks for listening to Muddy Paws and Hairballs, your go-to resource for all things pet care. From dog training, behavior, and socialization to cat enrichment, pet adoption, and tackling behavior problems, we provide expert advice and real talk to help you create a happy, healthy life with your pets. Whether you're dealing with dog anxiety, looking for puppy training tips, or exploring enrichment ideas for your cat, we've got you covered. Be sure to check out all our episodes!

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

In this insightful episode, Amy interviews Eliza Burr, a seasoned pet business coach, about the dynamic world of pet-related businesses. Eliza shares her inspiring journey from the corporate world to becoming a successful pet business coach and delves into the challenges and rewards of starting a pet business.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Common Misconceptions: Addressing myths about starting and running a pet business.
• Goal Setting and Systems: Creating clear goals and implementing processes for long-term success.
• Coaching and Support: How having a pet business coach can guide you through challenges and accelerate your growth.
• And more!

Tune in for practical tips, personal stories, and expert advice on how to successfully launch and grow a pet-related business. Whether you're just starting or looking to scale, this episode provides valuable insights to help you thrive in the pet industry.

Check out Eliza's podcast, 'Off the Leash with the Pet Business Coach,' for practical tips and personal stories about starting and growing a pet business. 

Visit her website to learn more about how you can work with Eliza: https://www.thepetbusinesscoach.dog/

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at Amy@StarlightPetTalk.com

Starting Sunday, April 27, 2025, we’re switching things up—new episodes will now drop every Sunday instead of Tuesday!

Why the change? Because Sundays just feel better. Quieter mornings, fewer midweek distractions, and a better chance to catch up with your favorite pet podcast (aka us 😎).

Set your alarms (or don’t—we’ll be waiting patiently like a well-trained Golden Retriever 🐾) every Sunday morning starting at 8AM EST / 7AM CST.

Support the show

✅ Subscribe to Muddy Paws and Hairballs for real talk and expert advice on pet care.
✅ Share this episode to help more pet parents navigate life with their pets.

💬 We’d Love to Hear from You! Got thoughts on this episode or a topic you want covered? Leave a review or comment—we value your feedback!

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

📩 Contact: Amy@muddypawsandhairballs.com

Thanks for listening to Muddy Paws and Hairballs, your go-to resource for all things pet care. From dog training, behavior, and socialization to cat enrichment, pet adoption, and tackling behavior problems, we provide expert advice and real talk to help you create a happy, healthy life with your pets. Whether you're dealing with dog anxiety, looking for puppy training tips, or exploring enrichment ideas for your cat, we've got you covered. Be sure to check out all our episodes!

In this episode, we explore the impactful work of The Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) with Lindsey Braun, HABRI VP of Research and Operations. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to researching and sharing the benefits of human-animal interaction. HABRI funds scientific studies, educates the public, and advocates for policies that support the human-animal bond.

Research Highlights:

• Physiological benefits of interacting with pets, including lowering blood pressure and stress hormones while boosting bonding hormones like oxytocin.
• Mental health benefits: Pets reduce loneliness, increase social support, and improve well-being.
• HABRI’s initiatives include making housing more pet-friendly, supporting service animals for veterans with PTSD, promoting pet-friendly workplaces, and educating about the differences between pets, emotional support animals, service animals, and therapy animals.

Support HABRI by learning about their research, donating, and staying connected through their website and newsletter.

Takeaways:

• HABRI funds research on the benefits of human-animal interaction.
• Interacting with pets lowers blood pressure and stress hormones.
• Pets reduce loneliness and increase social support.
• HABRI advocates for pet-friendly housing and workplaces.
• HABRI supports service animals for veterans with PTSD.
• Learn about pets, emotional support animals, service animals, and therapy animals.
• Support HABRI by staying informed, donating, and subscribing to their newsletter.

Links and Resources:

• HABRI Website: https://habri.org
• Preventive Vet: https://www.preventivevet.com

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at Amy@StarlightPetTalk.com

Starting Sunday, April 27, 2025, we’re switching things up—new episodes will now drop every Sunday instead of Tuesday!

Why the change? Because Sundays just feel better. Quieter mornings, fewer midweek distractions, and a better chance to catch up with your favorite pet podcast (aka us 😎).

Set your alarms (or don’t—we’ll be waiting patiently like a well-trained Golden Retriever 🐾) every Sunday morning starting at 8AM EST / 7AM CST.

Support the show

✅ Subscribe to Muddy Paws and Hairballs for real talk and expert advice on pet care.
✅ Share this episode to help more pet parents navigate life with their pets.

💬 We’d Love to Hear from You! Got thoughts on this episode or a topic you want covered? Leave a review or comment—we value your feedback!

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

📩 Contact: Amy@muddypawsandhairballs.com

Thanks for listening to Muddy Paws and Hairballs, your go-to resource for all things pet care. From dog training, behavior, and socialization to cat enrichment, pet adoption, and tackling behavior problems, we provide expert advice and real talk to help you create a happy, healthy life with your pets. Whether you're dealing with dog anxiety, looking for puppy training tips, or exploring enrichment ideas for your cat, we've got you covered. Be sure to check out all our episodes!

Hey there!
In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing 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

In this episode, Amy Castro interviews Blanca Rodriguez, a certified canine massage therapist, about the benefits of pet massage. They discuss the history of animal massage, the similarities between human and canine massage, and the specific techniques used in canine massage therapy. Blanca shares success stories of how massage therapy has improved the quality of life for dogs, including those with hip dysplasia and during end-of-life care. She emphasizes the importance of creating a calm and safe environment for the massage and recommends using relaxation music. Overall, the episode highlights the transformative power of massage therapy for pets.

Takeaways:

• Pet massage has been practiced since ancient times and offers similar benefits for humans and animals.
• Massage therapy can improve the quality of life for pets with various conditions, including hip dysplasia and during end-of-life care.
• Creating a calm, safe environment is crucial for a successful pet massage session.
• Massage therapy can strengthen the bond between humans and their pets and increase trust.
• Relaxation music can enhance the calming effects of massage therapy.

Shoutouts in this episode:

• Blanca E. Rodriguez: https://www.woundedhealer.us

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at Amy@StarlightPetTalk.com

Starting Sunday, April 27, 2025, we’re switching things up—new episodes will now drop every Sunday instead of Tuesday!

Why the change? Because Sundays just feel better. Quieter mornings, fewer midweek distractions, and a better chance to catch up with your favorite pet podcast (aka us 😎).

Set your alarms (or don’t—we’ll be waiting patiently like a well-trained Golden Retriever 🐾) every Sunday morning starting at 8AM EST / 7AM CST.

Support the show

✅ Subscribe to Muddy Paws and Hairballs for real talk and expert advice on pet care.
✅ Share this episode to help more pet parents navigate life with their pets.

💬 We’d Love to Hear from You! Got thoughts on this episode or a topic you want covered? Leave a review or comment—we value your feedback!

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

📩 Contact: Amy@muddypawsandhairballs.com

Thanks for listening to Muddy Paws and Hairballs, your go-to resource for all things pet care. From dog training, behavior, and socialization to cat enrichment, pet adoption, and tackling behavior problems, we provide expert advice and real talk to help you create a happy, healthy life with your pets. Whether you're dealing with dog anxiety, looking for puppy training tips, or exploring enrichment ideas for your cat, we've got you covered. Be sure to check out all our episodes!