The Pet Parent Hotline – Details, episodes & analysis

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.

Send us a text

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

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


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: puppy training, cat behavior, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com

©Ⓟ 2025 by 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 a rescue dog 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

We’re also joined by Dr. Linda Atkins from Valley Cottage Animal Hospital to 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.

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.

Send us a text

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

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


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: puppy training, cat behavior, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

If disaster strikes, would you know how to protect your pets?

Too many pet parents wait until it’s too late to make a plan. Whether it’s a wildfire, hurricane, or sudden evacuation, your pet’s safety depends on your preparedness.

In this episode, Amy talks with Roxana Petzold from the American Red Cross to break down exactly what you need to do to prepare your pets before an emergency happens.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
 ✔️ What to pack in a pet emergency go-bag
 ✔️ Why microchipping and up-to-date records could save your pet’s life
 ✔️ How to build a pet safety plan that actually works when disaster hits

Don’t wait for a warning siren to get ready. This episode will help you take action now to protect the pets you love.

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 [help pet parents stay prepared and stress-free] and how you can too.

CONNECT WITH ROXANA PETZOLD
Facebook: @RedCross | www.redcross.org

LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
Instagram: @YOURSOCIALHANDLE | www.starlightpettalk.com

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
American Red Cross Pet Preparedness Resources
Pet First Aid App (Free in your app store)

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.

Send us a text

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

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


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: puppy training, cat behavior, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

Are you expecting a baby and wondering how your dog will handle the change?

Many pet parents wait until the baby arrives to deal with problems—but by then, it’s often too late.

The truth is, introducing your dog to a newborn without prep can cause stress, anxiety, or even behavior issues. But with the right tools and training, you can set everyone up for success.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:
✔️ Why the biggest issue is usually miscommunication between partners—not the dog
✔️ How to read your dog’s stress signals before they escalate
✔️ What to do now to help your dog feel safe, confident, and calm before baby comes home

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 help pet parents ditch the chaos and live better with their animals—and how you can too.

CONNECT WITH AILEEN CRONIN
Instagram: @babypackleader | Website: www.babypackleader.com

LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
Facebook: @AmyCastroSpeaker | Website: www.starlightoutreachandrescue.org

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Use code STARLIGHT when purchasing Aileen’s “Bringing Home Baby” program to donate 50% of the sale to help animals at Starlight Outreach and Rescue.

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.

Send us a text

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

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


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: puppy training, cat behavior, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

Ever feel like your pet is reacting to your stress, anxiety, or energy?

Many pet parents don’t realize their own emotional state could be causing unwanted behaviors.

By building emotional intelligence and using a few simple tools, you can create a calmer, more connected relationship with your pet.

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

• How your emotional state influences your pet’s mood and behavior
• Simple heart-focused breathing techniques to create calm and connection
• Why emotional intelligence is the missing piece in your pet parenting toolkit

CONNECT WITH AMY BUDD
Instagram: @wholeheartranch
Website: https://www.wholeheartranch.com/

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
HeartMath Techniques: www.heartmath.org

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

Send us a text

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

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


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: puppy training, cat behavior, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

Confused about which vaccines your pet really needs? You’re not alone.
With conflicting advice and growing concerns about side effects, making informed decisions around pet vaccinations can feel overwhelming.

In this episode, I’m joined by veterinarian and author Dr. Jeff Grognet, who breaks down what core and non-core vaccines actually do, what risks you should consider, and how to customize a vaccine schedule that fits your pet—not a one-size-fits-all plan.

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

• How to tell the difference between core and non-core vaccines
• What side effects and risks to watch for, including tumors and immune issues
• Why talking openly with your vet is key to smarter vaccination decisions

This episode gives you the clarity and confidence to make the best choices for your pet’s health—without the guesswork.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Dr. Jeff Grognet – NewEarthVet.com

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 show, same mission—just a name that fits better now.

Send us a text

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

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


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: puppy training, cat behavior, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

What do you do when the worst happens and your pet crosses the Rainbow Bridge?
For many pet parents, navigating the grief and logistics of pet aftercare is overwhelming, especially if they’ve never faced it before.

In this episode, I’m joined by Gia Kondakor, director of Pet Loss Services at McAlister-Smith Funeral Home, to talk about what happens after a pet dies and the choices you have to honor them with care and dignity.

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

• The differences between individual, partition, and communal cremation
• How memorial services can provide healing and closure
• Unique ways to honor your pet’s memory, from keepsake jewelry to creative art

If you’ve ever faced or are preparing for losing a beloved pet, this episode will help you make informed, compassionate choices you can feel good about.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Gia Kondakor – McAlister-Smith Pet Loss 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 show, same mission—just a name that fits better now.

Send us a text

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

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


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: puppy training, cat behavior, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

What does it really take to turn your passion for pets into a thriving business?
A lot of people dive in headfirst, only to find out too late that love for animals isn’t enough.

In this episode, I talk with Eliza Burr, a seasoned pet business coach and host of Off the Leash with the Pet Business Coach, about what most aspiring pet entrepreneurs get wrong—and how to set yourself up for success.

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

• Common myths and mindset traps that keep new pet businesses stuck
• How to set smart goals and create systems that support your growth
• Why hiring a coach could be the game-changer you didn’t know you needed

Whether you’re dreaming of a doggy daycare or already juggling clients, this episode will help you build a business that works for you and the animals you love.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Eliza Burr
 Instagram: @thepetbusinesscoach
Website: https://www.thepetbusinesscoach.dog

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 show, same mission, just a name that fits better now.

Send us a text

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

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


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: puppy training, cat behavior, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

What if cuddling your dog or cat could lower your blood pressure and improve your mental health?
Too many people think of pets as “just” companions, but research shows they do much more.

In this episode, I sit down with Lindsey Braun, Vice President of Research and Operations at The Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), to uncover what science says about the power of pets in our lives. From emotional support to measurable health improvements, the human-animal bond is more than real, it’s revolutionary.

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

• How pets boost your physical and emotional health
• What makes a pet different from an emotional support, service, or therapy animal
• How HABRI is driving research and changing policies to support pet-friendly living

Whether you’re a pet parent, policy maker, or just curious about the science behind why pets make life better, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible when we honor the human-animal connection.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

The Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI)
 Website: https://habri.org
Research and News: https://habri.org/research

Preventive Vet
 Website: https://www.preventivevet.com

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 show, same mission—just a name that fits better now.

Send us a text

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

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


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: puppy training, cat behavior, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

Want to help your pet feel better, heal faster, and trust you more?

Most pet parents have no idea that massage therapy can improve everything from joint pain to anxiety.

In this episode, I sit down with certified canine massage therapist Blanca Rodriguez to explore the power of pet massage and how it can boost your pet’s quality of life.

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

• How massage therapy supports pain relief, trust, and emotional regulation
• Simple ways to create a calm, safe space for a massage at home
• Why end-of-life pets, senior dogs, and anxious animals can benefit the most

If your pet is aging, recovering from injury, or just needs a little more peace, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible with massage therapy.

CONNECT WITH BLANCA RODRIGUEZ:
Instagram | https://www.woundedhealer.us

LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
Facebook | www.starlightoutreachandrescue.org

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
N/A

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 show, same mission—just a name that fits better now.

Send us a text

Love the show? Please share it with another pet parent who wants less chaos and more clarity. Please leave a 5-star review to help others find real-life, judgment-free advice.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

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


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: puppy training, cat behavior, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.