Leaving your pet in someone else’s care can be nerve-racking, especially when you’re not sure what goes on behind those kennel doors. In this episode, Amy sits down with Carmen Rustenbeck, Founder & CEO of the International Boarding & Pet Services Association (IBPSA), to talk about what safe, professional pet care really looks like and how to choose a boarding facility that meets your standards for quality and compassion.

Whether you’re boarding for a day or a week, this episode will help you feel confident, prepared, and in control of your pet’s well-being.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• The biggest mistakes pet parents make when choosing a pet boarding facility
• What separates a safe, professional environment from one that could put your pet’s health or happiness at risk
• How to assess pet safety, staff training, and cleanliness before you book

BONUS RESOURCE:
Visit https://www.ibpsa.com/for-consumers/
to download a free pet care checklist you can use while evaluating dog or cat boarding facilities or other pet professional services.

CONNECT WITH CARMEN RUSTENBECK
Website: ibpsa.com

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
• Fear Free Pet Program: fearfree.com

Support the show

Love the show? Please share it with a pet parent living with chaos, and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more people can get the pet parent advice they need.

Help us bring you more content you'll love by taking our quick 4-minute listener survey: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/ZbaTzF

Follow:🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real pet parenting struggles with practical pet advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice and pet saving hacks for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easy, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households in balance. We share pet advice on pet budgeting, cat care, dog training tips, dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Ever feel guilty for working too much, missing walks, or not giving your pet enough attention? You’re not alone. Pet parenting struggles like guilt, burnout, and overwhelm are more common than most people admit. But what if guilt isn’t the real problem?

In this episode, I’m joined by Sheryl Green, speaker, author of You Had Me at No, and recovering people-pleaser who helps others set healthy boundaries without drowning in guilt. Together, we dig into why guilt shows up for real pet parenting, what it’s trying to tell you, and how to finally release it for good.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:
• Why “vague expectations” make guilt feel endless—and how to define “enough” for yourself
• The difference between real guilt you can act on and the kind you can let go
• How to replace guilt with self-compassion while still being a responsible, loving pet parent

Your pet doesn’t need you to be perfect, just present.

CONNECT WITH SHERYL
Website | sherylgreenspeaks.com

Boundaried Life Program | sherylgreenspeaks.com/boundaried-life

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
You Had Me at No by Sheryl Green

What’s one pet-related guilt you’ve let go of lately? Tell us inside the Pet Parent Hotline Insiders group on Facebook—we’d love to hear your story.

Support the show

Love the show? Please share it with a pet parent living with chaos, and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more people can get the pet parent advice they need.

Help us bring you more content you'll love by taking our quick 4-minute listener survey: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/ZbaTzF

Follow:🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real pet parenting struggles with practical pet advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice and pet saving hacks for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easy, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households in balance. We share pet advice on pet budgeting, cat care, dog training tips, dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Ever searched online for pet advice and ended up more confused than when you started? One post about your dog throwing up turns into 60 conflicting comments, arguments, and fear-filled stories, and suddenly you’re spiraling.

In this episode, I reveal the hidden danger behind all that “free” expert pet advice in online groups, why it can do more harm than good, and where to actually turn for real pet parenting guidance that helps your pets instead of hurting them.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• The 5 biggest reasons social media pet advice can backfire on your pet’s health, training, or behavior
• What to look for before trusting anyone’s opinion about cat care, managing pet behavior, or diet online
• How to build your own Trusted Trio of reliable experts for calm, confident pet parenting

CONNECT WITH ME: Email: Amy@PetParentHotline.com
thepetparenthotline.com | facebook.com/groups/thepetparenthotlineinsiders

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
• Join the Pet Parent Hotline Insiders Group: facebook.com/groups/thepetparenthotlineinsiders
• Subscribe to the Pet Parent Playbook Blog: thepetparenthotline.com

Support the show

Love the show? Please share it with a pet parent living with chaos, and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more people can get the pet parent advice they need.

Help us bring you more content you'll love by taking our quick 4-minute listener survey: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/ZbaTzF

Follow:🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real pet parenting struggles with practical pet advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice and pet saving hacks for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easy, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households in balance. We share pet advice on pet budgeting, cat care, dog training tips, dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Trying to save money on grooming? Whether you’ve got a dog or a cat, this episode will help you figure out what you can safely and confidently do at home, and what’s better left to the professionals so you can stop overpaying for grooming.

Amy talks with Liz Hampton, Director of Grooming and Education at Fluffology, who brings more than 30 years of experience as a National Certified Master Groomer. Liz shares how pet parents can make smart grooming decisions that keep pets comfortable, healthy, and stress-free - without spending a fortune.

Together, they break down where you can save $ by DIY grooming, the mistakes that can end up costing more in the long run, and the tools and habits that make home grooming easier and safer for both dogs and cats.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• Why grooming is about more than looks and how it impacts your pet's health • Which dog and cat grooming tasks are safe and best to handle at home
• When professional grooming is worth the investment
• Tools and techniques that make at-home grooming less stressful
• How to save money without sacrificing your pet’s comfort or safety

Whether you’re trimming nails, brushing out mats, or stretching time between visits to the groomer, you’ll walk away with practical steps to build a grooming routine that fits your lifestyle and your pet’s needs.

CONNECT WITH LIZ HAMPTON
Fluffology | [Website: https://fluffology.com/] | [Instagram: @fluffology_la]

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Pet Parent Hotline Insiders Group: facebook.com/groups/thepetparenthotlineinsiders

Support the show

Love the show? Please share it with a pet parent living with chaos, and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more people can get the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free Vet Bill Survival Kit

Please support the show!

Follow:🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real pet parenting struggles with practical pet advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice and pet saving hacks for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easy, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households in balance. We share pet advice on pet budgeting, cat care, dog training tips, dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Think crate training is as simple as putting your dog in the crate and calling it a night? That’s the biggest reason it fails.

Crate training isn’t instant. It’s a step-by-step process that builds your dog’s trust and confidence over time. Rush it, and you’ll end up with whining, accidents, or full-blown crate panic.

In this episode, I’m joined by Ruth Hegarty, multi-certified dog trainer and behavior expert, to share real pet parenting advice that actually works. Together, we’ll walk through how to crate train the right way -- calm, consistent, and stress-free. You’ll learn when to move forward, when to slow down, and how to make the crate your dog’s favorite spot in the house.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

• The #1 rookie mistake that makes crate training fail fast
• How to use treats, toys, and routines to build positive associations
• A simple progression to increase crate time without stress or setbacks

Crate training done right isn’t about control. It’s about creating a predictable, peaceful space where your dog feels safe and you can finally exhale.

If you’re ready for expert pet advice that cuts through the chaos and helps you manage your pet’s behavior without guilt or overwhelm, this episode’s for you.

CONNECT WITH RUTH HEGARTY
Website | Creature Good Dog Training

PRODUCTS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Furbo Pet Camera
• DogTV
• Wagnific

CRATES WE RECOMMEND: Impact Dog Crates (we get a small commission on every sale that helps keep this show advertising free!)

Support the show

Love the show? Please share it with a pet parent living with chaos, and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more people can get the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free Vet Bill Survival Kit

Please support the show!

Follow:🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real pet parenting struggles with practical pet advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice and pet saving hacks for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easy, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households in balance. We share pet advice on pet budgeting, cat care, dog training tips, dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Confused about which crate is right for your dog? With so many sizes, styles, and price points, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The right crate isn’t just about convenience. It’s about safety, comfort, and setting your dog up for success.

In this episode, I’m sharing real pet parenting advice to help you confidently choose the best crate for your dog’s size, age, and behavior needs, without overspending or second-guessing your choice.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• The simple sizing rule to make sure your crate actually fits your dog
• The pros and cons of wire, plastic, and furniture-style crates
• Pet cost hacks and budget-friendly tips to find the right crate without wasting money

Because the right setup doesn’t just make life easier for you, it creates a calmer, safer space for your dog and helps prevent future pet parenting struggles.

If you’re ready for expert pet advice that saves you money, builds your confidence, and keeps your pet happy, this episode is your guide.

CONTACT RUTH: https://www.creaturegooddogtraining.com/

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Some of the links below may be affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. It doesn’t cost you anything extra, and it helps keep the show AD FREE.

Impact Dog Crates: 25% off when you use this link

Budget friendly and great quality bed/pad options:

Majestic Pet Products

Support the show

Love the show? Please share it with a pet parent living with chaos, and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more people can get the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free Vet Bill Survival Kit

Please support the show!

Follow:🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real pet parenting struggles with practical pet advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice and pet saving hacks for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easy, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households in balance. We share pet advice on pet budgeting, cat care, dog training tips, dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Think your litter box setup is fine, yet your cat is still peeing on the bath mat? In this episode, I share expert pet advice and reveal the six “everybody knows” rules cat parents accidentally break — and how small, practical changes in cat care can stop outside-the-box accidents for good.

You’ll learn why health issues always come first, what “clean” really means to a cat, how litter box size and placement impact success, and when the litter itself might be the problem.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:
• The health-first rule — and why medical causes should always be ruled out first
• The cleaning, size, and placement tweaks most cat parents miss
• How to choose litter your cat will actually use, and when it’s time to add another box

These real pet parenting insights will help you manage pet behavior, reduce pet parenting struggles, and apply simple pet saving hacks that keep your cat happy without breaking your budget.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Get your FREE guide, 25 Litter Box Tips to Keep Your Cat Happily Using Their Litter Box . This tip sheet also includes bonus tips for keeping cats going in their litter boxes and not on your bed (or rugs, or laundry...).

Support the show

Love the show? Please share it with a pet parent living with chaos, and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more people can get the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free Vet Bill Survival Kit

Please support the show!

Follow:🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real pet parenting struggles with practical pet advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice and pet saving hacks for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easy, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households in balance. We share pet advice on pet budgeting, cat care, dog training tips, dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro

Thinking about getting a puppy or kitten for your preschooler? It might look adorable on social media, but in real life it’s often a recipe for stress, safety risks, and heartbreak.

Well-meaning parents often believe getting a pet will teach their child responsibility or help them “grow up together and bond better,” but in rescue we’ve seen those myths lead to injured pets, injured kids, heartbreaking surrenders, and even euthanasia. The truth is, kids under 5 face the highest dog bite risk, pets are easily hurt by rough handling, and family pet safety is at stake when the timing isn’t right. That’s why many rescues, including mine, don’t adopt out to families with very young children. Today I’m sharing the five big reasons why waiting is the better choice and why the "best age to get a pet for kids" is a bigger decision than most parents think.

This episode dives into real pet parenting challenges, and gives you expert pet advice you won’t find in social media myths. From understanding managing pet behavior with young kids, to the long-term pet parenting struggles families face when timing is off, I’ll help you see the bigger picture. You’ll also hear pet advice on safer, positive ways to nurture your child’s love of animals until the time is right.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:
• Why kids under 5 simply can’t manage the responsibility of pet care, no matter how “responsible” they seem
• How young children unintentionally put themselves and pets at risk, and what every parent should know about dog bite risk
• The developmental mismatch that makes “growing up together” with a puppy or kitten a dangerous myth
• How one negative early experience can shape a child or pet for life
• Safer, positive ways to nurture your child’s love of animals until the time is right—and how to decide the best age to get a pet for kids

If you’ve ever thought about getting a pet for your young child, or know someone who is, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss. It’s all about real pet parenting solutions—the kind of expert pet advice that keeps families and pets safe.

Support the show

Love the show? Please share it with a pet parent living with chaos, and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review so more people can get the pet parent advice they need.

Get our free Vet Bill Survival Kit

Please support the show!

Follow:🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify

Pet parenting is tough, but The Pet Parent Hotline helps solve real pet parenting struggles with practical pet advice. Each week, we provide pet care advice and pet saving hacks for overwhelmed pet parents trying to save money at the pet store and on vet bills, make puppy training easy, fix cat behavior problems like litter box issues and scratching, and keep multi-pet households in balance. We share pet advice on pet budgeting, cat care, dog training tips, dog behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning with pets. Follow for the pet parent support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro