Dogs Episodes

Ever feel like taking your dog out in public turns into chaos, side-eyes, and stress? Most “bad dog” moments are really people problems, like using too much leash, missing body language cues, or pushing a dog into situations they’re not ready for yet. In this episode, I talk with Nancy Hassel, founder of American Pet Professionals, about real-world dog etiquette, the kind that keeps your dog safer and makes everyone’s life easier, from your neighborhood walks to the vet to the park. BY THE TI...

Is your dog growling over food, toys, the couch, or even you? Resource guarding usually doesn’t start as a big, dramatic moment; it starts small, and most pet parents miss the early red flags until it escalates. Then the internet chimes in with advice that can make it worse fast. In this episode, I’m joined by nationally recognized dog behavior and dog training expert Will Bangura, to break down what resource guarding really is, why it happens, and what to do next so you can handle it safely an...

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 stories of dogs working their way toward a second chance. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: What a typical day looks like for a dog living in a rescueThe medical, emotional, and behavio...

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 behavior, often go overlooked but have the greatest impact on your pet’s quality of life. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: Why social connection (or solitude) matters depending on...

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 this episode, they tackle the first three of the five legally recognized animal welfare needs and how they apply to everyday pet parenting. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: What “proper nutrition” really...

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 expert Sandy Weaver to unpack the tension between rescuing dogs and buying from breeders. They explore the truth behind mixed breed rescue dogs vs. purebreds, decode the doodle craze, and share expert tips for finding a responsible breeder, so you can make the best decision f...

What makes a service dog a lifeline for veterans and first responders? What makes a service dog a lifeline for veterans and first responders? A lot of people assume service dogs are only for physical disabilities, but for trauma survivors, the right dog can change daily life in powerful, practical ways. In this episode, Amy Castro is joined by Joe Gionti, CEO of K9 Heroes 4 Heroes, to share how these dogs are trained and matched to support veterans and first responders living with PTSD, tra...

Ever wondered if your dog has what it takes to become a therapy dog? A lot of pet parents assume therapy work is just about having a sweet, friendly dog, but the real test is how your dog handles unpredictability. New environments, sudden noises, strangers who don’t know dog boundaries, medical equipment, crowded hallways, awkward hugs, and handling mistakes all come with the job. In this uplifting episode, Amy Castro talks with Sandy Weaver, professional trainer and therapy dog expert, about...

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 compassion, patience, and dedication come together to give a dog a second chance. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: The turning point that brought Kaiser into rescue and what it took to...

Ever notice your dog acting anxious, reactive, or unsettled, even when nothing obvious is happening? Chances are, they’re picking up on you. Your dog isn’t just responding to your commands or routines. They’re reading your body language, breathing patterns, tension, and emotional state constantly. When you’re stressed, rushed, or overwhelmed, that energy shows up in your dog’s behavior, whether you realize it or not. In this episode, Amy sits down with Canine Partnered Energy Coach Mike Overl...