Episodes

Thinking about getting a dog? Hold that thought. Too many rescue dog adoptions fail because people fall for a face or a story without understanding what they’re signing up for. Choosing the wrong dog, whether it's a rescue dog or not, can lead to frustration, heartbreak, and sometimes surrender. In this episode, I talk with Pete Campione about how to avoid the biggest mistakes people make when bringing a dog into their lives. Whether you’re adopting a rescue dog, fostering, or buying from a bre...

Is your dog getting the right amount of exercise, or are they overdoing it without you realizing? Whether your pup is high-energy, low-key, or somewhere in between, knowing how to safely meet their physical needs is crucial to keeping them healthy and pain-free. But most pet parents don’t know when to push their dog or when to let them rest. In this episode, I talk with Dr. Kelly Fishman, a veterinary sports medicine expert, about how to customize exercise for your dog’s breed, age, and lifesty...

Thinking about getting goats? Don’t let Instagram fool you. Goat ownership isn’t just cute photos and fresh milk. It’s daily work, specific care, and a long-term commitment that catches a lot of new owners off guard. In this episode, I talk with goat expert and homesteader Deborah Niemann, host of the For the Love of Goats podcast, who pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to raise goats the right way. From fencing to vet care to the emotional lives of goats, she covers it all with hone...

Would you know how to save your pet if they started choking or collapsed from heatstroke? Pet emergencies can happen in seconds, and knowing what to do could be the difference between life and death, especially before you can get to your vet or an emergency vet. Most pet parents aren’t prepared and that’s exactly what this episode aims to change. I’m joined by Arden Moore, a master-certified pet first aid and CPR instructor, award-winning author, and host of Oh Behave and Four-Legged Life. She ...

Worried your cat will freak out in the car? You’re not alone. Whether you’re planning a move or just need to get your cat to the vet without a meltdown, cat travel can feel overwhelming. But with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, I’m sharing practical pet travel tips for cats with Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist LeeAnna Buis, including what to do before, during, and after the ride to reduce anxiety and set your cat up for success. BY THE TIME YOU ...

Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy Join us for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation with Daio Floyd, a seasoned dog trainer and rescuer, as she shares her journey from competing in dog sports as a young enthusiast to founding and leading a ...

Think keeping ants as pets sounds strange? You might be surprised. Ant keeping is one of the fastest-growing pet hobbies in the world, and it’s easy to see why. These tiny creatures are incredibly social, surprisingly low maintenance, and full of behaviors that will blow your mind. In this episode, I talk with Zachary Liu, a myrmecologist from McGill University and founder of Canada Ant Colony. We explore what makes ants such fascinating animals and how to get started if you’re curious about add...

Not sure what’s actually healthy for your pet to eat? You’re not alone. Pet food labels are confusing on purpose, marketing is loud, and even “prescription” diets can leave you feeling stuck and broke. In this episode, certified canine nutritionist and holistic pet health coach Elizabeth Casas explains how to spot misleading ingredients, make smarter choices without going down a rabbit hole, and start improving your pet’s diet with small, realistic upgrades. No food-shaming, no perfection, just...

Looking for a holiday gift that your pet loving friends will truly appreciate? Before you grab another toy, treat sampler, or pet themed mug, let’s walk through what makes a gift thoughtful, useful, and personal. In this episode, I’m breaking down the simple qualities that turn an ordinary present into something meaningful. You’ll learn how to match the gift to the pet, the pet parent, and their lifestyle so you can feel confident you picked something they’ll love. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTE...

Love is important, but love alone won’t fix fear. If you’re considering adopting a rescue dog and you’re worried about trauma, shutdown behavior, reactivity, or “what did I just bring home?”, this episode will help you make a smarter decision and avoid the mistakes that set dogs and adopters up to fail. I’m joined by canine behavior consultant Kate LaSalla, who specializes in fear, aggression, and complex behavior cases. We talk about what rescue dogs actually need beyond love, how to...