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Pet Parenting Lifestyle Episodes

Sept. 26, 2023

Neglected to Thriving: Kaiser’s Unforgettable Rescue Story

What happens when a neglected dog finally finds someone who sees his worth? In this episode, Amy Castro sits down with Mayson Zimmermann to share the emotional journey of rescuing Kaiser, a neglected dog who defied the odds. From heartbreak to healing, this story showcases what’s possible when comp…

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Sept. 19, 2023

Thinking About a Small Pet? What Vets Want You to Know First

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…

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Sept. 12, 2023

Why Your “Trained” Dog Suddenly Stops Listening

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…

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Sept. 5, 2023

Want to Foster or Volunteer for Pets? What You Need to Know First

Ever wonder if you could really make a difference in a rescue animal’s life? In this episode, Amy Castro shares what it’s like to volunteer with animal shelters and rescues—from the unexpected joys to the behind-the-scenes truths no one talks about. Whether you’ve thought about fostering, walking d…

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Aug. 29, 2023

How Your Dog Can Help You Find Calm

Ever wonder why your dog picks up on your mood, even when you’re trying to hide it? The truth is, your pet isn’t just watching your behavior. They’re absorbing your energy. And if you’re feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed, chances are your dog is too. In this episode, Amy sits down with Cani…

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Aug. 22, 2023

Keeping Pets and People Together: The Mission of PAWS NY

What happens when pet owners face challenges so overwhelming they might have to give up the animals they love? In this powerful episode, Amy Castro sits down with Rachel Herman, founder of Paws NY, to explore how one nonprofi...

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Aug. 15, 2023

How to Really Find Your Lost Cat: Advice from a Pet Detective

What would you do if your cat went missing and the advice you found online wasn’t working? Most people panic, print flyers, and shake a treat bag, but today’s guest says that’s exactly what not to do. In this episode, Amy sits down with lost cat expert and pet detective Kim Freeman, who shares what…

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Aug. 8, 2023

Emergency Vet Visit? What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know

Do you know what to do before walking into the emergency vet? Most pet parents don’t think about it until it’s too late. You’re stressed, scared, and possibly facing big decisions without knowing what to expect. In this episode, Amy sits down with emergency vet Dr. Tyler Sugrrman-McGiffin to break …

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Aug. 1, 2023

Living with the World’s Most Difficult Cat

Could you live with a cat that constantly tests your patience? In this episode, Amy sits down with her friend Bev to share the wild, wonderful, and often chaotic journey of living with Cuzzy — a cat lovingly known as the World’s Most Difficult Cat. From escaping at every opportunity to refusing to …

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July 25, 2023

5 Ways to Help Your Pet Live Longer with Dr. Gary Richter, DVM

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…

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July 18, 2023

The Power of Playtime: Build a Happier, Healthier Pet

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…

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July 11, 2023

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Getting a Pet

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 …

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July 3, 2023

Pro Pet Photography Tips for Pics You’ll Love

Ever feel like your pet photos never turn out as cute as the real thing? Whether you're snapping pics for fun or trying to help a shelter animal find a home, bad lighting, awkward angles, and blurry shots can ruin the moment—and make amazing animals look unadoptable. In this episode, pro dog photog…

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June 27, 2023

The Raw Truth About Starting an Animal Rescue

Ever thought about starting an animal rescue, but had no idea what really goes on behind the scenes? You’ve seen the heartwarming posts and happy endings online, but running a rescue takes a lot more than just good intentions. In this special episode, Amy teams up with guest host (and best friend) …

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June 20, 2023

What to Do (and Not Do) When You Find Wildlife

Ever come across a wild animal and freeze, unsure of what to do? Whether it's a baby bird on the ground or a raccoon in your attic, most of us want to help, but end up making things worse. In this episode, Amy talks with Stephanie Ellis, Executive Director of Wild Care of Cape Cod, to break down wh…

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June 13, 2023

Pet Grooming Secrets from Jess Rona: What Your Groomer Wants You to K…

Think grooming is just about a haircut? Think again. Most pet parents have no idea what their groomer really goes through, or what makes a grooming session a total nightmare (or a dream). In this episode, celebrity groomer Jess Rona spills the secrets every pet parent should know, from managing coa…

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June 6, 2023

Understanding Dog Aggression: An Expert’s Warning Signs

Ever feel like your dog’s aggression comes out of nowhere? You’re not alone—and the truth is, most pet parents miss the early warning signs until it’s too late. In this episode, Amy sits down with dog aggression expert Dr. Jim Crosby to uncover what’s really behind those scary outbursts. From body …

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May 30, 2023

Working from Home with Pets: Sanity-Saving Tips for You and Them

Ever try to lead a Zoom call while your dog is barking or your cat is walking across your keyboard? Remote work sounds like a dream, until your pets decide they're the boss. If you're tired of juggling deadlines and dog walks, this episode is for you. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOV…

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May 23, 2023

Vet Visits Don’t Have to Be Traumatic: How to Calm Your Pet (and Your…

Does your pet panic at the vet—or do you? Vet visits can be a major source of anxiety for pets and their people. But they don’t have to be. In this episode, Amy sits down with her friend and veterinarian, Dr. Arsue Shokrollahi-McClain (aka Dr. Zoo), to share practical tips to take the stress out of…

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May 16, 2023

Pet-Friendly Road Trip Hacks for a Stress-Free Adventure

Planning a road trip with your pets? Worried about how to make it safe, fun, and enjoyable? In this episode, Amy chats with pet travel expert Amy Burkert, founder of GoPetFriendly.com, to bring you the ultimate guide to hitting the road with your furry co-pilot. Whether you’re traveling cross-count…

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April 25, 2023

Thinking About Adopting a Shelter Dog? Listen to This First

Ready to open your heart and home to a shelter dog? There’s more to it than just picking the cutest pup. In this episode, Amy Castro teams up with professional dog trainer Ricky Bedient, also known as That Dog Guy , to unpack...

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April 18, 2023

Saving Senior Dogs: Why They’re Overlooked (and Why They’re Amazing)

Think adopting a senior dog is just “too sad”? You’re not alone. Many people avoid older dogs because of fears about health, longevity, or heartbreak. But what if you’re missing out on one of the most rewarding pet experience...

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April 11, 2023

Is Your Pet’s Food Safe? How to Choose What Really Works

Is Your Pet’s Food Helping or Hurting Their Health? With nearly 900 pet food brands on the market, how are you supposed to know what’s actually good for your pet? In this episode, I’m joined by holistic veterinarian Dr. Jeff Grognet to cut through the confusion and give you real answers about pet n…

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April 4, 2023

Thinking About Fostering a Pet? Here's What You Need to Know

Ever wonder if you could be a foster hero? Fostering isn’t just about temporarily housing an animal - it’s about giving them a second chance. But it’s also one of the most rewarding ways to make a difference, even if you’re n...

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