Episodes

Ever heard someone say they “had to” give up their pet because they had a baby or were moving? Let’s unpack that. In this episode, Amy teams up with fellow pet podcaster and dog training expert Jessica L. Fischer to confront the most common excuses people give when surrendering their pets. Together, they challenge the myths, explore what’s really behind these reasons, and offer a candid conversation about responsibility, compassion, and commitment in pet ownership. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTEN...

Ready to open your heart and home to a shelter dog? There’s more to it than just picking the cutest pup. In this episode, Amy Castro teams up with professional dog trainer Ricky Bedient, also known as That Dog Guy, to unpack the most important things you need to know before adopting a dog from a shelter. They break down common myths, explore what makes a good match, and share expert tips for setting your new pet, and your household, up for success. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCO...

Afraid to adopt a senior dog because it feels “too sad”? You’re not alone. Many people avoid older dogs because of fears about health, longevity, or heartbreak, but what if you’re missing out on one of the most rewarding pet experiences of your life? In this episode, Amy Castro sits down with Sherri Franklin, founder of Muttville Senior Dog Rescue, to challenge the myths and highlight the real joy and relief that can come from adopting older dogs. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOV...

Is Your Pet’s Food Helping or Hurting Their Health? With nearly 900 pet food brands on the market, how are you supposed to know what’s actually good for your pet? In this episode, I’m joined by holistic veterinarian Dr. Jeff Grognet to cut through the confusion and give you real answers about pet nutrition. We talk about the truth behind pet obesity, why so many foods are loaded with hidden carbs, and the most common myths pet parents believe about what’s “healthy.” 🎧 By the time you finish l...

Ever wonder if you could be a foster hero? Fostering isn’t just about temporarily housing an animal - it’s about giving them a second chance. But it’s also one of the most rewarding ways to make a difference, even if you’re not ready for a permanent pet. In this inspiring episode, Amy Castro sits down with animal advocate Nora Burns to explore the life-saving power of pet fostering and why it’s easier (and more fulfilling) than you might think. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:...

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, they explore the real legal definitions under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the responsibilities of handlers, and what happens when people abuse the system. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: What truly qualifies a dog as a service animal unde...

What happens when your life needs a second act -- and your dog leads the way? In this episode, Amy Castro talks with Joyce A. Miller, who transformed herself from a mechanical designer into an author and freestyle dog dancer after adopting retired racing Greyhounds. Joyce shares the emotional highs and lows of Greyhound rescue, the myths every pet parent should know about racing dogs, and how life with pets can inspire reinvention you never expected. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YO...

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. Understanding cat litter box issues and other unwanted behaviors are a challenge for thousands of cat parents! These so-called “bad” behaviors are often just misunderstood signals from your cat. In this episode, Amy sits down with cat behavior expert, cat care expert, and media personality KJ McGlinn to uncover what your cat’s behavior is really trying to t...

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-stress or emotional situations. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: What veterinary social workers do and why they’re essential to modern pet careThe emotional toll veterinary staff face d...

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, nipping, or peeing outside the litter box, your pet may be trying to tell you something important—and you might not even realize it. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: The most commo...