Help keep the hotline alive, donate now →

Spotlight Organization Episodes

Sharing the stories of people, companies, and nonprofits who are doing great things with and for pets!
April 30, 2024

Ever wonder how you can actually make a difference for homeless pets? Too many shelters are overwhelmed, and most people think they can’t help unless they adopt, but that’s far from the truth. In this episode, I sit down with April Pfeiffer from the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter to reveal how fostering, volunteering, and even small donations can create real change for pets in need. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: How shelters like WCRAS are adapting to rising in...

Listen to the Episode
March 12, 2024

What happens to working dogs after their service ends? Most people don’t think about what happens to military and police dogs once they’re retired, but they deserve love, care, and sometimes, a reunion with the person they trusted most. In this episode, I talk with Kristen Maurer from Mission K9 Rescue about how her team helps these canine heroes find peace, purpose, and permanent homes. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: • How retired working dogs adjust to life after servic...

Listen to the Episode
Feb. 6, 2024

Thinking about bringing home a bunny? Here’s what most people get wrong. In this eye-opening episode, Amy Castro speaks with Marcy Berman, founder of Save a Bunny Rabbit Rescue, to reveal the often misunderstood truth about rabbits as pets. From spaying and neutering to behavioral quirks, medical needs, and the real cost of care, this episode is a must-listen for anyone considering adding a rabbit to their home—or wanting to better care for the one they already have. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LI...

Listen to the Episode
Dec. 12, 2023

What makes a service dog a lifeline for veterans and first responders? In this powerful episode, Amy Castro is joined by Joe Gionti, CEO of K9 Heroes 4 Heroes, to explore how service dogs are changing lives for trauma survivors. From PTSD to physical injury, these dogs are trained to support and empower those who’ve served on the front lines—without charging them a penny. Joe shares what makes the match between dog and recipient so important, how K9 Heroes 4 Heroes selects and trains its dogs...

Listen to the Episode
Oct. 17, 2023

Can one woman’s passion for animals change how rescues operate? In this episode, Amy Castro interviews Lizz Whitacre, founder of Pawlytics, to uncover how a single rescue story grew into a mission-driven tech company. From saving her first dog to launching a platform used by rescues nationwide, Lizz shares what it takes to turn love for animals into lasting impact. You'll hear about her challenges, the power of smart software, and what every rescue or pet entrepreneur needs to know. BY THE TI...

Listen to the Episode
Oct. 10, 2023

Think you know what goes into starting and running a rescue? Think again. In this powerful episode, Amy Castro sits down with Holly Dool, president of CAMO Rescue in Texas, to reveal the behind-the-scenes reality of leading an animal rescue. From making heartbreaking decisions to celebrating hard-won victories, Holly shares what it really takes to save lives, stay focused, and keep going when the work feels impossible. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: How CAMO Rescue built a...

Listen to the Episode
Aug. 22, 2023

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...

Listen to the Episode
Aug. 15, 2023

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 really helps bring lost cats home. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: The critical mistake most pet parents make in the first 24 hoursHow understanding cat behavior can transform yo...

Listen to the Episode
June 27, 2023

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) Bev to share the raw, unfiltered truth about launching and managing a rescue. From the paperwork to the heartbreak, you'll hear what most people don’t talk about—and why it's still worth it. BY THE ...

Listen to the Episode
June 20, 2023

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 what you should do when wildlife shows up in your world. You’ll hear real stories, practical tips, and how Wild Care is making a difference every single day. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL D...

Listen to the Episode