Starlight Pet Talk Amy Castro, MA, CSP

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
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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.

Key Takeaways
·        Allergies are common in pets, and testing can help you identify specific allergens and provide proper treatment.
·        Many plants are toxic pets. It's important for pet parents to know what plants are in their pets' environments.
·        Hydration and protection from heat/sun are critical to pet health as the weather warms. 
·        Fleas, ticks,  mosquitos, and other creatures can pose major risks for pets. 
·        When spring cleaning, don't forget your toys, bowls, bedding, and more, but be careful about cleaning products to ensure they're pet-safe. 
·        Prepare for outings, trips, and more by ensuring your pet has a great leash and inescapable collar, provide basic obedience training to ensure pet safety.
·        Be prepared for emergencies - whether you're at home, in town, or on the road!
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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 coping with anticipatory grief. They share tips on preparing for and coping with pet loss, including:

- Creating meaningful end-of-life experiences
- Communicating about the decision
- Understanding and navigating the journey
- Managing the guilt about decisions made and not made
- Letting go of the guilt pet parents may feel over the relief of a pet's death
- And more.

Celebrate the uniqueness of each pet's journey and explore compassionate care options to ensure their final chapter is filled with dignity and love. Tune in for heartfelt conversations and support during this challenging part of the pet parenting journey.

Shoutouts in this episode:
Parkwood Animal Hospital, Friendswood Texas
End-of-Life Pet Photography from One Last Network
Nancy Gordon - Pet Loss and Grief Expert
Check out Nancy's new book "I Miss You Already: Bearing the Unbearable Loss of Your Pet."Pet Vet Animal Hospital - Deerfield Beach, Florida

Additional Resources Provided By Dr. Mary Gardner:

Mary's personal website: https://www.drmarygardner.com/
Lap of Love website: lapoflove.com
Dog Quality of Life Scale: https://www.drmarygardner.com/resources/forms/dog/dog_QOL.pdf
Cat Quality of Life Scale: https://www.drmarygardner.com/resources/forms/cat/Cat_Life_Quality_Assessment.pdf

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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 Rescue, Amy addresses key questions: 
Are the kittens healthy? Is their mother present? How old are they? Through practical insights and real-life examples, Amy guides listeners through the complexities of kitten rescue, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and responsible action.

Tune in to discover essential tips on assessing kitten health, identifying maternal care, and determining appropriate intervention strategies. Whether you're a seasoned rescuer or a concerned passerby, this episode equips you with the knowledge and confidence to make a difference in the lives of abandoned kittens. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from an expert and become a champion for vulnerable animals. Subscribe to Starlight Pet Talk on your favorite podcast platform and embark on a journey of compassion and advocacy. Together, we can make a meaningful impact in the world of animal welfare.
Shoutouts in this episode: www.kittenlady.org/age
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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, Angela shares the importance of cherishing every moment with our pets and the healing power of these precious photos.

Takeaways:
Discover how end-of-life pet photography serves as a tender tribute to the timeless bond between humans and their furry friends.Learn why capturing professional photos of our pets throughout their lives is not just a luxury, but an essential part of honoring their legacy.Uncover the unmatched expertise and skill of professional pet photographers in encapsulating the essence of a pet's spirit, ensuring that their legacy lives on forever. Explore the invaluable comfort and solace that investing in professional end-of-life photography can bring during times of grief and loss.Learn more about Angela and her work at:
https://bigwhitedogphotography.com/
https://onelastnetwork.com/
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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 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
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