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Pet Care Basics Episodes

Every pet parent starts somewhere. These episodes cover the everyday essentials of caring for your dog, cat, or other pets—so you can build confidence, create healthy routines, and avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re a new pet parent or just want to refresh your knowledge, you’ll find simple, practical advice to keep your pets happy and healthy at home.

Topics included: feeding routines, grooming, litter box setup, crate training, cleaning and odor control, introducing new pets, daily care, and first-time pet parent tips.
Sept. 19, 2023

Small Pets, Big Commitments: What Vets Want You to Know

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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Aug. 15, 2023

Lost Cat? How to Find Them Fast (and What Not to Do)

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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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

What Skipping Playtime Is Really Costing Your 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

Thinking About a Pet? 10 Questions to Ask First

Thinking about adding a pet to your life, but not sure if it is the right time or the right decision? Every year, pets end up surrendered because their humans rushed in without asking the tough questions first. Whether you are considering your very first pet or adding another to your household, thi…

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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 Hollywood’s Top Groomer Jess Rona

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 dog aggression seems like comes out of nowhere? You’re not alone and the truth is, most pet parents miss the early warning signs of dog aggression 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…

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May 23, 2023

Vet Visits Don’t Have to Be Traumatizing, For You or Your Pet

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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