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Pet Parenting Lifestyle Episodes

March 28, 2023

Fake Service Dogs Hurt Real People: Here’s Why It Matters

Think all dogs with vests are legit service animals? Think again. In this episode, Amy Castro sits down with disability experts Elisa Hayes and Donna Mack to break down the facts—and fiction—surrounding service dogs. Together...

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March 14, 2023

Rescuing a Greyhound: The Second Chance That Changed Everything

What if your second act wasn’t just about you, but also about your dog? In this episode, Amy talks with Joyce A. Miller, who transformed herself from a mechanical designer into an author and freestyle dog dancer. From busting myths about Greyhounds to exploring the emotional rollercoaster of racing…

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March 7, 2023

Why Your Cat’s Acting Out (and How to Fix It)

Ever feel like your cat is trying to ruin your life with litterbox messes or shredded furniture? You’re not alone and you’re not failing. These so-called “bad” behaviors are often just misunderstood signals from your cat. In this episode, Amy sits down with cat behavior expert and media personality…

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Feb. 28, 2023

Veterinary Social Workers: The Hidden Support Pet Owners Need

Ever feel like something’s lost in translation at the vet’s office? Veterinary social workers may be the solution you didn’t know existed. In this episode, Amy speaks with Emily Carveth, LCSW, to explore how these professionals support both pet parents and veterinary teams, especially in high-stres…

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Feb. 21, 2023

Stop Misreading Your Pet: What Their Behavior Is Really Saying

What Is Your Pet Trying to Tell You—And Are You Listening? What if your pet’s “bad” or unwanted behavior isn’t bad at all... but a message you’re missing? Most pet parents unknowingly send mixed signals to their animals, then feel frustrated when the problems persist. Whether it’s barking, hiding, …

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Feb. 14, 2023

Thinking About a Purebred Dog? Ask Yourself This First

What really drives someone to choose a specific breed? And what happens when that desire bumps into reality? In this heartfelt episode, Amy chats with speaker and leadership coach Laurie Hall about her journey from planning t...

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Feb. 14, 2023

The Grief Before Goodbye: Preparing for Your Pet’s Final Days

What No One Tells You About Losing a Pet Do you feel like you're already grieving your pet… even though they're still here? That heartbreak has a name and in this episode, you’ll learn how anticipatory grief affects both you and your pet, and why it’s one of the most misunderstood parts of pet loss…

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Jan. 29, 2023

Muddy Paws and Hairballs Trailer

Welcome to Muddy Paws and Hairballs , the no-fluff podcast that tells it like it is when it comes to life with pets. I'm Amy Castro , your host—an animal rescue founder, former vet assistant, pet industry expert, and someone ...

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Jan. 11, 2023

Why We Started This Podcast (and the Mission Behind It)

This short intro episode comes from our original show, Starlight Pet Talk. While the name may have changed, this episode is still a must-listen! It shares our "why," introduces you to our host, Amy Castro, and lays out the go...

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