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Starlight Pet Talk

Starlight Pet Talk

Amy Castro, MA, CSP

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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 you, we'll explore everything from pet nutrition and diet to animal behavior, dog training, cat care essentials, and pet safety. Expect laughs, learning, and camaraderie in every episode.

Join the adventure at Starlight Pet Talk! Subscribe now and let's navigate the journey of pet parenthood together!

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Top 10 Starlight Pet Talk Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Starlight Pet Talk episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Starlight Pet Talk for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Starlight Pet Talk episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

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 medical diagnoses.
Key Takeaways:

  • Learn about the silent struggles and victories of caring for pets with special needs.
  • Explore the sweetness and challenges of managing a diabetic feline, Charlie.
  • Gain insights into recognizing cues indicating potential health issues in pets.
  • Hear the tough decisions pet owners may face, from veterinary expenses to re-homing considerations.
  • Understand why surrendering a pet with special needs to a shelter or rescue strains on shelters ill-equipped to care for animals with medical conditions and rescues that are already overwhelmed.

This candid exploration is balanced by the resilience and love that define our bonds with these special animals. Join us and discover the joy of adopting, fostering, and loving a pet with special needs.
Shoutout's in this episode:
The Story of My Pet podcast
Podcast Your Story Now

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at [email protected]

Big changes are coming soon to Starlight Pet Talk! 🚀 We’re excited to share that we're evolving to bring you even more engaging content and fresh perspectives. Stay tuned for new features and exciting updates that will enhance your listening experience. We can’t wait to reveal what’s next—keep an eye out for more details!

Support the show

We Want to Hear From You!
Your thoughts and experiences matter to us. What’s one thing you’ve learned from this episode that you’re excited to try with your pet? Or, do you have a question or topic you'd like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a review or comment below—your feedback helps us create content that truly resonates with you!
Support us: Buy Me a Coffee

LISTEN & FOLLOW!
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CONTACT: [email protected]

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Starlight Pet Talk - The Hidden Dangers of Plastics in Your Pet's Products
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09/17/24 • 40 min

Have you ever wondered if the everyday items your pet uses, like toys and food containers, could be harming their health?
In this eye-opening episode, we dive into the hidden dangers of plastics in pet products with Aidan Charron from EarthDay.org, who shares startling findings from the “Pets vs Plastics” report.
What You'll Learn:
- The Hidden Health Risks: Discover the shocking chemicals like phthalates and BPA found in common pet items and learn how they can contribute to serious health issues like developmental problems and increased cancer risk in pets.
- The Regulatory Gaps: Learn about the lack of regulation in the pet product industry, and why this means you need to be more vigilant about the products you choose for your pets.
- Practical Tips for Safer Choices: Get actionable advice on reducing plastic use, such as choosing ceramic or stainless steel bowls and understanding product labels to make healthier choices for your pets.
- Global Efforts and Implications: Explore the broader fight against plastic pollution, including how international agreements like the Global Plastics Treaty could impact the pet industry.
Plus, find out how your consumer choices can drive positive changes in the market and why understanding pet food labels is crucial for your pet's health. With insights from Aiden and resources like the "Pets vs Plastics" report and TruthAboutPetFood.org, this episode empowers you to make informed decisions that protect your pet's well-being.
Don’t miss this essential conversation that could change the way you shop for your pet forever. Read the "Pets vs Plastics" report on EarthDay.org to learn more.
Learn more about the dangers of plastics for your pets by reading Earthday.org's "Pets vs Plastics" report.
Also, be sure to check out TruthAboutPetFood.org, to learn more about what's in your pet's food.

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at [email protected]

Big changes are coming soon to Starlight Pet Talk! 🚀 We’re excited to share that we're evolving to bring you even more engaging content and fresh perspectives. Stay tuned for new features and exciting updates that will enhance your listening experience. We can’t wait to reveal what’s next—keep an eye out for more details!

Support the show

We Want to Hear From You!
Your thoughts and experiences matter to us. What’s one thing you’ve learned from this episode that you’re excited to try with your pet? Or, do you have a question or topic you'd like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a review or comment below—your feedback helps us create content that truly resonates with you!
Support us: Buy Me a Coffee

LISTEN & FOLLOW!
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YouTube
Apple
Spotify

CONTACT: [email protected]

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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 episode because the content is truly valuable, and we didn't want you to miss out on the insights and information we have to share. Thank you for your understanding and continued support and for tuning in. Now, let's get into the episode!"
---
In this episode, we explore the impactful work of The Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) with Lindsey Braun, HABRI VP of Research and Operations. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to researching and sharing the benefits of human-animal interaction. HABRI funds scientific studies, educates the public, and advocates for policies that support the human-animal bond.

Research highlights the physiological benefits of interacting with pets, such as lowering blood pressure and stress hormones while boosting bonding hormones like oxytocin. Mental health benefits include reduced loneliness, increased social support, and improved well-being. HABRI's initiatives include making housing more pet-friendly, supporting service animals for veterans with PTSD, promoting pet-friendly workplaces, and educating about the differences between pets, emotional support animals, service animals, and therapy animals.

Support HABRI by learning about their research, donating, and staying connected through their website and newsletter.

Takeaways:

  • HABRI funds research on the benefits of human-animal interaction.
  • Interacting with pets lowers blood pressure and stress hormones.
  • Pets reduce loneliness and increase social support.
  • HABRI advocates for pet-friendly housing and workplaces.
  • They support service animals for veterans with PTSD.
  • Learn about pets, emotional support animals, service animals, and therapy animals.
  • Support HABRI by staying informed, donating, and subscribing to their newsletter.

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at [email protected]

Big changes are coming soon to Starlight Pet Talk! 🚀 We’re excited to share that we're evolving to bring you even more engaging content and fresh perspectives. Stay tuned for new features and exciting updates that will enhance your listening experience. We can’t wait to reveal what’s next—keep an eye out for more details!

Support the show

We Want to Hear From You!
Your thoughts and experiences matter to us. What’s one thing you’ve learned from this episode that you’re excited to try with your pet? Or, do you have a question or topic you'd like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a review or comment below—your feedback helps us create content that truly resonates with you!
Support us: Buy Me a Coffee

LISTEN & FOLLOW!
Official Site
Facebook
YouTube
Apple
Spotify

CONTACT: [email protected]

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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 your pets on a path to a joyous and healthy year ahead.

Takeaways

  1. Regular veterinary checkups are important for catching health issues early.
  2. Balanced nutrition is crucial for pets' overall health and well-being.
  3. Daily exercise routines help keep pets physically and mentally stimulated.
  4. Training and enrichment activities can improve pets' behavior and mental health.
  5. Grooming and hygiene are essential for pets' health.
  6. Updating identification can help ensure pets can be easily identified and returned if lost.
  7. Spending quality time with pets strengthens the bond between you and your pets.
  8. Socialization opportunities help pets become comfortable around other animals and people.
  9. Changing up the living space and toys can provide environmental enrichment for pets.
  10. Having an emergency preparedness plan and kit is essential for pet owners.

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at [email protected]

Big changes are coming soon to Starlight Pet Talk! 🚀 We’re excited to share that we're evolving to bring you even more engaging content and fresh perspectives. Stay tuned for new features and exciting updates that will enhance your listening experience. We can’t wait to reveal what’s next—keep an eye out for more details!

Support the show

We Want to Hear From You!
Your thoughts and experiences matter to us. What’s one thing you’ve learned from this episode that you’re excited to try with your pet? Or, do you have a question or topic you'd like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a review or comment below—your feedback helps us create content that truly resonates with you!
Support us: Buy Me a Coffee

LISTEN & FOLLOW!
Official Site
Facebook
YouTube
Apple
Spotify

CONTACT: [email protected]

bookmark
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Starlight Pet Talk - Understanding Pet Insurance and Why You Need It
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12/05/23 • 46 min

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 pet insurance, types, coverage details, and its role in preventing economic euthanasia.
  • Key points include the impact of species, breed, and age on insurance costs, emphasizing early enrollment and viewing it as a necessary expense.
  • The conversation guides listeners on researching and choosing the right pet insurance, encouraging prompt decision-making.

Tune in to gain insights for a well-informed decision on your pet's insurance coverage, ensuring preparedness for unforeseen healthcare costs.
Shoutouts in this episode:
NAPHIA Pet Insurance Finder
USAA Pet Insurance

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at [email protected]

Big changes are coming soon to Starlight Pet Talk! 🚀 We’re excited to share that we're evolving to bring you even more engaging content and fresh perspectives. Stay tuned for new features and exciting updates that will enhance your listening experience. We can’t wait to reveal what’s next—keep an eye out for more details!

Support the show

We Want to Hear From You!
Your thoughts and experiences matter to us. What’s one thing you’ve learned from this episode that you’re excited to try with your pet? Or, do you have a question or topic you'd like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a review or comment below—your feedback helps us create content that truly resonates with you!
Support us: Buy Me a Coffee

LISTEN & FOLLOW!
Official Site
Facebook
YouTube
Apple
Spotify

CONTACT: [email protected]

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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 socializing the dogs. They also highlight the need for more puppy raisers and the life-changing impact that guide dogs have on their handlers. The episode concludes with information on International Guide Dog Day and how to support guide dog organizations.

Key Takeaways

  • Puppy raisers play a crucial role in the training and socialization of guide dogs for the blind.
  • Guide dog organizations breed their own dogs and carefully select them based on genetics and temperament.
  • Puppy raisers expose the dogs to various environments and experiences to prepare them for their future roles.
  • Guide dogs provide independence and confidence to their handlers, significantly improving their quality of life.
  • There is a constant need for more puppy raisers to meet the demand for guide dogs.
  • International Guide Dog Day is celebrated on April 24th and raises awareness about the importance of guide dogs.

Shoutouts in this episode:
Donna Mack, The Disability Diplomat
Guide Dogs for the Blind

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at [email protected]

Big changes are coming soon to Starlight Pet Talk! 🚀 We’re excited to share that we're evolving to bring you even more engaging content and fresh perspectives. Stay tuned for new features and exciting updates that will enhance your listening experience. We can’t wait to reveal what’s next—keep an eye out for more details!

Support the show

We Want to Hear From You!
Your thoughts and experiences matter to us. What’s one thing you’ve learned from this episode that you’re excited to try with your pet? Or, do you have a question or topic you'd like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a review or comment below—your feedback helps us create content that truly resonates with you!
Support us: Buy Me a Coffee

LISTEN & FOLLOW!
Official Site
Facebook
YouTube
Apple
Spotify

CONTACT: [email protected]

bookmark
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Starlight Pet Talk - Does Your Dog Have What It Takes to be a Therapy Dog?
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10/03/23 • 33 min

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 stories of the impact therapy dogs have on people's lives. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on the power of therapy dogs.
Shoutouts in this episode:
R.E.A.D. https://therapyanimals.org/read/
Center for Workplace Happiness https://www.centerforworkplacehappiness.com/
CAREing Paws
https://www.careingpaws.org

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at [email protected]

Big changes are coming soon to Starlight Pet Talk! 🚀 We’re excited to share that we're evolving to bring you even more engaging content and fresh perspectives. Stay tuned for new features and exciting updates that will enhance your listening experience. We can’t wait to reveal what’s next—keep an eye out for more details!

Support the show

We Want to Hear From You!
Your thoughts and experiences matter to us. What’s one thing you’ve learned from this episode that you’re excited to try with your pet? Or, do you have a question or topic you'd like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a review or comment below—your feedback helps us create content that truly resonates with you!
Support us: Buy Me a Coffee

LISTEN & FOLLOW!
Official Site
Facebook
YouTube
Apple
Spotify

CONTACT: [email protected]

bookmark
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share episode
Starlight Pet Talk - How to Launch a Profitable Pet Business
play

05/21/24 • 48 min

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 Topics Discussed:

  • Common Misconceptions: Addressing myths about starting and running a pet business.
  • Goal Setting and Systems: Creating clear goals and implementing processes for long-term success.
  • Coaching and Support: How having a pet business coach can guide you through challenges and accelerate your growth.
  • And more!

Tune in for practical tips, personal stories, and expert advice on how to successfully launch and grow a pet-related business. Whether you're just starting or looking to scale, this episode provides valuable insights to help you thrive in the pet industry.

Check out Eliza's podcast, 'Off the Leash with the Pet Business Coach,' for practical tips and personal stories about starting and growing a pet business.
Visit her website to learn more about how you can work with Eliza: https://www.thepetbusinesscoach.dog/

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at [email protected]

Big changes are coming soon to Starlight Pet Talk! 🚀 We’re excited to share that we're evolving to bring you even more engaging content and fresh perspectives. Stay tuned for new features and exciting updates that will enhance your listening experience. We can’t wait to reveal what’s next—keep an eye out for more details!

Support the show

We Want to Hear From You!
Your thoughts and experiences matter to us. What’s one thing you’ve learned from this episode that you’re excited to try with your pet? Or, do you have a question or topic you'd like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a review or comment below—your feedback helps us create content that truly resonates with you!
Support us: Buy Me a Coffee

LISTEN & FOLLOW!
Official Site
Facebook
YouTube
Apple
Spotify

CONTACT: [email protected]

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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 consistent training and positive reinforcement.

Key Topics:

  • Leash Pulling
  • Nuisance Barking
  • Recall
  • Jumping Up
  • Destructive Chewing

Key Takeaways:
- Consistency and patience are crucial in dog training.
- Positive reinforcement is highly effective.
- Understanding your dog's breed and personality can improve training outcomes.
- Training should be integrated into daily routines, even in short increments.
To learn more about Ruth's training and education programs, visit her website at: https://www.creaturegooddogtraining.com/
Go directly to Ruth's resource library for handouts based on today's show and beyond: https://mailchi.mp/a21acb0bb44f/dogtalk

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at [email protected]

Big changes are coming soon to Starlight Pet Talk! 🚀 We’re excited to share that we're evolving to bring you even more engaging content and fresh perspectives. Stay tuned for new features and exciting updates that will enhance your listening experience. We can’t wait to reveal what’s next—keep an eye out for more details!

Support the show

We Want to Hear From You!
Your thoughts and experiences matter to us. What’s one thing you’ve learned from this episode that you’re excited to try with your pet? Or, do you have a question or topic you'd like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a review or comment below—your feedback helps us create content that truly resonates with you!
Support us: Buy Me a Coffee

LISTEN & FOLLOW!
Official Site
Facebook
YouTube
Apple
Spotify

CONTACT: [email protected]

bookmark
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Starlight Pet Talk - Myths and Truths about Mutts vs. Purebred Dogs
play

12/14/23 • 48 min

The "Adopt Don't Shop" movement has divided dog lovers over the past few years into two camps; those who believe people should only get dogs from rescues or shelters and those who believe getting dogs from breeders is the best option. In this episode, Amy In this episode, Amy chats with Sandy Weaver, an AKC judge and Siberian Husky enthusiast, about the ongoing debate between the "Adopt Don't Shop" movement and purchasing from breeders. They explore the myths and truths about Mutts vs. Pure Bred Dogs, discussing the benefits of both options, considerations for future pet parents, the rise of the "Doodle Craze," and tips for finding responsible breeders. Tune in for valuable insights on making informed decisions about where to acquire your next dog!

Shoutouts in this episode:
American Kennel Club (AKC)
Orthopaedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)

Comment on this episode! For questions or if you need a reply- please email us at [email protected]

Big changes are coming soon to Starlight Pet Talk! 🚀 We’re excited to share that we're evolving to bring you even more engaging content and fresh perspectives. Stay tuned for new features and exciting updates that will enhance your listening experience. We can’t wait to reveal what’s next—keep an eye out for more details!

Support the show

We Want to Hear From You!
Your thoughts and experiences matter to us. What’s one thing you’ve learned from this episode that you’re excited to try with your pet? Or, do you have a question or topic you'd like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a review or comment below—your feedback helps us create content that truly resonates with you!
Support us: Buy Me a Coffee

LISTEN & FOLLOW!
Official Site
Facebook
YouTube
Apple
Spotify

CONTACT: [email protected]

bookmark
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FAQ

How many episodes does Starlight Pet Talk have?

Starlight Pet Talk currently has 90 episodes available.

What topics does Starlight Pet Talk cover?

The podcast is about Pets & Animals, Dog Training, Kids & Family, How To, Podcasts and Education.

What is the most popular episode on Starlight Pet Talk?

The episode title 'Parenting a Chronically Sick Pet: A Journey of Challenges and Triumphs' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Starlight Pet Talk?

The average episode length on Starlight Pet Talk is 43 minutes.

How often are episodes of Starlight Pet Talk released?

Episodes of Starlight Pet Talk are typically released every 7 days.

When was the first episode of Starlight Pet Talk?

The first episode of Starlight Pet Talk was released on Jan 11, 2023.

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