Welcome to Starlight Pet Talk! I'm Amy Castro, your guide in the world of pet parenting. Join us for expert pet care advice, heartwarming pet adoption stories, and a mission-driven commitment to helping pets and their families live their best lives. As a respected voice in the pet industry, Pet Age Magazine columnist, and president of Starlight Outreach and Rescue, I've fostered over 4000 critters and record the podcast from our 7-acre rescue ranch. With expert guests and pet parents like yo ...
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Top 5 Annoying Dog Behaviors and How to Fix Them
53:52
53:52
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In this episode, Amy is joined by dog training expert Ruth Hegarty to discuss solutions for common dog behavior problems. From leash pulling, nuisance barking, and recall, to jumping up and destructive chewing, Ruth emphasizes the importance of identifying the root causes of these behaviors and offers practical tips for addressing them through cons…
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The Story of Wagtown: Leading the Way in Creating Dog-Friendly Communities
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40:06
Join us as we dive deep into the world of dog-friendly communities with Beth Miller, the founder of Wagtown Consulting. Discover how Wagtown is transforming neighborhoods and workplaces by promoting dog-friendly initiatives that benefit residents and their dogs. Episode Highlights: Beth shares her journey and mission to create dog-friendly communit…
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Pet Adoption Secrets: Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid
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23:55
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In this candid episode of Starlight Pet Talk, host Amy Castro sheds light on the common challenges shelters and rescues face with potential pet adopters. Drawing from her 15 years of experience in animal rescue and sheltering, Amy shares 10 significant problems that can arise during the adoption process. These issues can not only delay the adoption…
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How to Include Pets In Your Wedding Successfully
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In this episode of Starlight Pet Talk, host Amy Castro chats with wedding expert Nicole Ettenhofer about the exciting idea of involving pets in weddings. They cover essential planning and considerations to ensure a smooth and joyful experience for everyone, including our furry friends. Amy and Nicole discuss the key factors to consider before decid…
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Pet Disaster Preparedness: Essential Tips from the Red Cross
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In this episode of Starlight Pet Talk, host Amy Castro discusses disaster preparedness for pets with Roxana Petzold from the American Red Cross. They cover common disasters that pet parents need to prepare for, such as hurricanes and wildfires, and provide tips on how to make a plan, pack a go bag, and stay informed during an evacuation. They also …
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Preparing Your Dog for a New Baby: Essential Training and Tips from an Expert
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1:02:54
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Get ready for an insightful in-depth episode as Amy sits down with Aileen Cronin, canine behavior consultant and Baby Pack Leader, to unpack the journey of preparing dogs for the arrival of a new human baby. Aileen, bringing her own experiences and expertise to the table, dispels the myths surrounding dogs and newborns, and shares why proactive tra…
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Emotional Intelligence for Pet Parents: Mastering Your Emotions for a Better Relationship with Your Pet
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52:24
In this episode, host Amy Castro dives deep into the world of emotional intelligence and its profound impact on our interactions with pets. Joined by guest Amy Budd, an expert in emotional intelligence and HeartMath techniques, they discuss the critical role of awareness and regulating our own emotions before expecting our pets to regulate theirs. …
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Pet Vaccination Essentials: What Every Pet Parent Needs to Know
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44:30
In this episode of Starlight Pet Talk, host Amy Castro interviews Dr. Jeff Grognet, a practicing veterinarian and author, about vaccinations for pets. They discuss the difference between core and non-core vaccines, the risks of over-vaccination, and the potential side effects of vaccines. Dr. Grognet emphasizes the importance of considering the ris…
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Aftercare and Memorialization for Pets: Honoring Your Beloved Companion
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39:07
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This episode explores the aftercare options available for pets after they cross the Rainbow Bridge. Amy talks with Gia Kondakor, director of Pet Loss Services at McAllister Smith Funeral Home. Amy and Gia discuss the emotional challenges people face when their pets die and the importance of making informed decisions about aftercare. The episode cov…
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In this insightful episode of Starlight Pet Talk, host Amy Castro interviews Eliza Burr, a seasoned pet business coach, about the dynamic world of pet-related businesses. Eliza shares her inspiring journey from the corporate world to becoming a successful pet business coach and delves into the challenges and rewards of starting a pet business. Key …
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Unlocking the Secrets of the Human Animal Bond: Insights from The Human-Animal Bond Research Institute
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Hi everyone, it's Amy from Starlight Pet Talk. Before we dive into today's episode, I want to take a moment to address something important. You'll notice that portions of the audio quality in this episode is less than stellar. Unfortunately, we ran into some technical issues during recording. Despite the audio hiccups, we decided to release the epi…
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Pet Massage Therapy: Transforming Your Pet's Life Through Therapeutic Touch
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44:42
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In this episode of Starlight Pet Talk, host Amy Castro interviews Blanca Rodriguez, a certified canine massage therapist, about the benefits of pet massage. They discuss the history of animal massage, the similarities between human and canine massage, and the specific techniques used in canine massage. Blanca shares success stories of how massage t…
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Spotlight on Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter: Transforming Lives in Texas
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Join us for an enlightening episode of Starlight Pet Talk as we shine a spotlight on the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter in Georgetown, Texas. In this episode, we sit down with Community Programs Coordinator April Pfeiffer, to discuss the challenges and triumphs encountered by this shelter. April discusses the pivotal role of fostering, v…
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Raising Guide Dog Puppies: Nurturing Life-Changing Heroes for the Visually Impaired
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This episode explores the heartwarming journey of puppy raisers and the impact they make on both dogs and humans. Roxanne and Jim have been volunteer guide dog puppy raisers for over 18 years, and Donna is a recipient of a guide dog named Wella. They discuss the process of raising guide dog puppies, the training involved, and the importance of soci…
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Critical Spring Safety Tips Every Pet Parent Must Know!
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51:43
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In this episode, Dr. Zoo from Family Animal Hospital in Friendswood, Texas, is back with host Amy Castro to discuss crucial tips for pet parents to be able to keep pets safe during the spring and summer seasons. The conversation provides valuable information for pet parents to ensure the safety and well-being of their pets during the spring season.…
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Home Hospice and Euthanasia for Pets: Saying Goodbye with Love and Dignity
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49:07
Join Amy Castro and Dr. Mary Gardner from Lap of Love in-home pet hospice and euthanasia as they have a poignant yet frank discussion about the benefits of in-home pet hospice and euthanasia and offer insights into navigating the emotional journey of a pet's end-of-life. Discover the nuances of end-of-life care, managing chronic conditions, and cop…
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In this episode of Starlight Pet Talk, join host Amy Castro as she sheds light on the crucial steps to take if you stumble upon a litter of kittens. As spring blooms in Texas, Amy offers invaluable advice on navigating the delicate balance between intervention and observation. Drawing from her experience as the president of Starlight Outreach and R…
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Lens of Love: Exploring the Beauty in End-of-Life Pet Photography
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Step into the world of end-of-life pet photography with Angela Schneider, the heart and soul behind Big White Dog Photography & One Last Network. In this emotional episode, Angela shares profound insights into the transformative power of immortalizing our beloved animal companions through photography. Through heartfelt anecdotes and profound wisdom…
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Parenting a Chronically Sick Pet: A Journey of Challenges and Triumphs
37:57
37:57
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Taking care of a pet with a long-term illness can often add another level of stress and commitment to being a pet parent. In this episode, I interview fellow pet podcaster Julie Marty Pearson to explore caring for special-needs pets. Discover the challenges and triumphs faced by pet parents like Julie when our furry friends receive unexpected medic…
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Join us as Kristen Maurer from Mission K9 Rescue shares heartwarming tales of reuniting retired working dogs with their former companions. We explore the emotional journey of rescuing these canines from military and police backgrounds, highlighting their transition to a peaceful retirement. Key Takeaways: Retired working dogs transition from servic…
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Are You Guilty of Breaking These Dog Etiquette Rules?
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42:23
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42:23
Tired of chaotic encounters with unruly dogs in public spaces? Join host Amy Castro and guest Nancy Hassel from American Pet Professionals for an insightful discussion on dog etiquette. Gain valuable insights to enhance your canine adventures with key takeaways such as: - Deciphering your dog's body language for better communication. - Assessing br…
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Are You Ignoring a Red Flag? Understanding Your Dog's Resource Guarding
1:04:28
1:04:28
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Join host Amy Castro as she delves into the world of canine behavior with Dog Behaviorist Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP. In this episode, we focus on the common challenge of resource guarding in dogs, providing expert advice for pet parents. Key Points: Understanding resource guarding and its causes. Recognizing signs of resource guard…
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Join Amy Castro, founder of Starlight Outreach and Rescue, as she takes you behind the scenes of the journey of cats in rescue shelters, from intake to adoption. Gain insight into their lives in foster homes, hear heartwarming stories of resilience, and explore the process of preparing them for adoption. Key Points: - Learn about the lives of foste…
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Discover the captivating journey of rescue dogs with Donna Ball from Rangers Reach, a Houston-based dog rescue. Learn about the compassionate care and rehabilitation these dogs undergo on their path to finding forever homes. Dive into the challenges and triumphs of animal rescue, including medical treatments, successful adoptions, and the vital rol…
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Beyond the Fluff: Rabbit Realities and Responsible Guardianship
1:00:34
1:00:34
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Join Host Amy Castro as she interviews Marcy Berman, the compassionate force behind Save a Bunny Rabbit Rescue. Marcy sheds light on rabbit rescue, debunking myths and addressing challenges. From spaying/neutering to ethical dilemmas in 'no-kill' shelters, explore the complexities of small animal care. Key Points: - Marcy Berman shares stories of r…
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Part 2 Think You're Meeting Your Pet's Welfare Needs? Think Again! Companionship and Behavior
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37:25
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37:25
In our latest episode of Starlight Pet Talk, we're continuing our discussion with Dr. Emma Milne on the remaining two crucial animal welfare needs: pets expressing their true nature and the importance of companionship. Building on our previous conversation about nutrition and providing a safe environment, we're uncovering what truly makes our pets …
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Part 1 Think You're Meeting Your Pet's Welfare Needs? Think Again! Nutrition, Health, Environment
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39:15
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39:15
Hey everyone! Amy Castro here, teaming up with the incredible Dr. Emma Milne for an insightful two-part series on what real pet care entails. We're delving beyond the basics to uncover the core principles of animal welfare. In this episode, we focus on the first three of the five essential needs every pet has: 1. Proper Nutrition: We explore the nu…
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A Guide to the Ultimate Pet Care Resolutions for the New Year
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45:07
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45:07
If you haven't set your new year's resolutions as a pet parent, we're here to help! In this first episode of Season 2 of Starlight Pet Talk, Bev and I serve up a playful yet practical guide to ensuring the well-being of your precious pets. From the significance of regular vet visits to grooming you can do on your own, we're here to help set you and…
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Season 1 Finale_Learning, Laughter, and the Love of Pets
1:03:34
1:03:34
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Wrapping up Season 1, Amy and Bev journey through your favorite episodes & theirs. We laughed, learned, and built a community around our love for pets. Looking ahead, Season 2 will bring even more enlightening content to support pet parents. We're not just here to guide you through the challenges of pet ownership; we're here to celebrate the joyous…
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Sneak Peek: What to Expect on Our LIVE Season Finale
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8:24
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To help you get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through our debut season of Starlight Pet Talk, this quick episode gives you a preview of what to expect when we go LIVE for a final, special episode of Starlight Pet Talk on Thursday, December 21st, at 6 pm Central Standard Time here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1185201876196088 Your …
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K9 Heroes 4 Heroes: Transforming the Lives of Veterans and First Responders with Service Dogs
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Discover the impactful role of service dogs for veterans and first responders with Joe Gionti, CEO of K9 Heroes 4 Heroes. Learn about the organization's mission, emphasizing the healing power of service dogs for trauma survivors. Amy Castro and Joe delve into the selection and training process, underscoring the importance of the right fit between d…
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Understanding Pet Insurance and Why You Need It
46:28
46:28
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In a world where pet healthcare costs are soaring, some pet parents face tough choices, including "economic euthanasia" due to financial constraints. Host Amy Castro explores the solution: pet insurance, with guest Kristin Lynch, Executive Director of North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA). Amy and Kristin discuss: The basics of p…
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The Lifesaving Importance of Microchipping Your Pets
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42:11
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42:11
Don't miss our latest episode where we delve into the lifesaving benefits of microchipping your pets! Join host Amy Castro and special guest Dr. Matt Goetz, DVM, MBA from Merck Animal Health, makers of HomeAgain microchips, as we explore: - How microchips work and their effectiveness in reuniting lost pets. - Why traditional methods like collars an…
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Celebrating the Holidays Safely with Your Pets: Tips from an ER Vet
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51:40
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Gear up for a safe and joyful holiday season with your furry friends! Join Amy Castro and emergency vet Dr. Tyler Sugerman-McGiffin as they share essential tips to protect your pets during the festivities. In this episode, Amy and Tyler discuss: - Common holiday hazards for pets. - Strategies to ensure your pets' safety around guests. - Tips to min…
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Should I Hire a Sitter or Board My Pet When Traveling?
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36:01
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In our latest episode, we delve into the age-old dilemma: should you hire a pet sitter or board your pet when you're away? Join Host Amy Castro, founder of Starlight Outreach and Rescue, and Dr. Aresue Shokrollahi-McClain, affectionately known as Dr. Zoo, as we navigate through the pros, cons, and everything in between. From understanding your pet'…
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Tips for Being a Great Guest When Bringing Your Pet Home for the Holidays
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40:10
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Prepare for stress-free holiday visits with your pet with expert tips from Connie Archer, master trainer at Barkbusters Home Dog Training in Houston. In this episode, Amy and Connie cover essential strategies for ensuring smooth holiday trips, including assessing if your pet is a good fit for the visit, introducing pets to unfamiliar environments, …
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Top 20 Favorite Pet Products Every Pet Parent Must Have
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36:00
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36:00
This episode is a game-changer as we share our top 20 pet products that have dramatically simplified our lives at Starlight Outreach and Rescue and improved the lives of the pets we care for! Amy shares the rescue's favorite cleaning products, pet beds, carriers, collars, leashes, food storage, and more, so don't miss this important episode! Nothin…
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Mushrooms for Pets: A Guide to Natural Health Boosters
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41:29
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Learn about the remarkable benefits of medicinal mushrooms for your pets in today's episode of Starlight Pet Talk, featuring Dr. Rob Silver, a leading expert in veterinary herbal medicine and nutraceuticals. Delve into the therapeutic properties of various mushrooms, from reishi and chaga for allergies to Lion's Mane for anxiety relief. Dr. Rob sha…
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How a Passion for Pets Became a Pet Business With Impact
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43:51
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Explore the inspiring journey of Lizz Whitacre, a software entrepreneur and animal rescue enthusiast, who turned her passion for pets into a thriving business. From rescuing her first dog to starting her own rescue and later founding Pawlytics, a groundbreaking software company, Lizz's story is both captivating and enlightening. Join us as we delve…
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An Inside Look Into Starting and Running a Successful Pet Rescue
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48:00
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48:00
Step into the world of animal rescue with Holly Dool, president of Camo Rescue, as we explore her journey of creating a successful non-profit organization. From her passion for animals to the challenges of running a foster-based rescue, Holly shares the highs and lows of her experience. Learn about the impact of social media on connecting with fost…
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Does Your Dog Have What It Takes to be a Therapy Dog?
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33:24
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Join us as we explore the world of therapy dogs with Sandy Weaver, an expert in dog care and training. Discover the unique role therapy dogs play in providing comfort and support to people in various settings. Learn about the selection process for therapy dogs and the essential bond between these dogs and their handlers. Sandy also shares heartfelt…
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Rescuing Kaiser: A Tale of Dedication, Recovery, and Love
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27:06
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Join us as we explore the heartwarming journey of Mayson Zimmermann and Kaiser, a neglected dog who found new hope and happiness. From Kaiser's initial state of neglect to his remarkable transformation, Mayson's story highlights the power of love, patience, and dedication in rescuing and rehabilitating pets. Their bond serves as a testament to the …
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Choosing and Caring for Small Pets: Advice from a Vet
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43:22
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Explore the world of small pet ownership with our guest, Dr. Linda Atkins, a veteran veterinarian with over three decades of experience. In this episode, we delve into the joys and considerations of having house rabbits, birds, reptiles, turtles, and snakes as pets. Dr. Atkins shares insights into the unique requirements of each pet species, from r…
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Unleashing Canine Potential: The Power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Dog Training
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38:48
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Explore the transformative potential of canine cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with Billie Groom in our latest episode. Discover how CBT can address various behaviors in dogs, from adolescent antics to aggression and anxiety. Gain insights into the science behind canine cognition and practical exercises to help your dog make better decisions. Bi…
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Should You Volunteer at a Shelter or Rescue?
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22:18
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Discover the fulfilling world of volunteering at animal rescues and shelters in this heartfelt episode of Starlight Pet Talk. Host Amy Castro shares her personal journey and the countless rewards of living the "rescue life," from helping animals in need to the positive impact on our own well-being. Through personal stories and anecdotes from fellow…
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Uncover the transformative power of the human-canine bond in this special episode of Starlight Pet Talk. Join us for an enlightening conversation with Mike Overlie, a Canine Partnered Energy Coach, as we explore the profound impact our furry friends have on our lives. Learn how our pets sense and respond to our energy, and the importance of being m…
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A Lifeline for Pet Owners In Need: The Story of Paws NY
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43:23
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Join us in an inspiring conversation with Rachel Herman, the compassionate force behind Paws NY. With 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Rachel shares the remarkable journey that led to the creation of Paws New York and its profound impact on pet owners facing challenges. From essential house call programs to veterinary care initiative…
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Strategies and Insights for Finding Your Lost Cat
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41:29
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Discover invaluable insights into finding lost cats with seasoned lost cat finder Kim Freeman in our latest episode. Learn surprising tips and strategies that go beyond conventional wisdom, such as understanding cat behavior and searching in unlikely places. From formulating a tailored search strategy to balancing DIY efforts with professional help…
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What to Expect When Going to the Emergency Vet
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37:44
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Explore the world of emergency veterinary medicine with Dr. Tyler Sugarman McGiffin in our latest episode. Discover the challenges and nuances between emergency and general practice vets, and gain insights into preparing for pet emergencies as a pet parent. From navigating tough decisions about your pet's health and finances to understanding the em…
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An Adoption Success Story: Nurturing and Managing the World's Most Difficult Cat
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Join us for a captivating story about Cuzzy, the World's Most Difficult Cat, and his devoted owner Bev. In this episode, Bev shares her 12-year journey with Cuzzy, a cat whose antics challenge perceptions and patience alike. Tune in as Bev and host Amy exchange tales of managing Cuzzy's adventurous spirit, offering valuable insights into understand…
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