Best Understanding Pet Body Language Podcasts (2025)

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10 Rescue-Tested Pet Essentials We Can’t Live Without 34:59

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4d ago34:59

34:59

Think you’re set because you have food bowls, toys, and a leash? Most pet supply lists focus on gimmicks or generic basics and completely miss the tools that actually make life with pets easier and safer. In this episode, Amy Castro and Bev Brooks share 10 rescue-tested pet essentials they can’t live without, five for dogs, five for cats, plus bonu…

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How to Get Through the Holidays When Facing Pet Loss 37:48

11d ago37:48

37:48

Why do the holidays feel so much heavier when you’ve lost a pet, or when you know a goodbye is coming soon? If you’re finding yourself dreading traditions, avoiding gatherings, or feeling pressure to “hold it together,” this episode is for you. Holiday pet grief can show up in unexpected ways, especially during a first holiday without your pet or w…

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Holiday Hazards That Send Pets to the Emergency Vet 32:27

18d ago32:27

32:27

Are you sure your home is ready for the holidays, or are there hidden dangers for your pet that could have your pet end up at the Emergency Vet? Most pet parents prep for the obvious hazards, but the real risks are the ones you never see coming. In today’s episode, veterinarian Dr. Zoo joins me for a walk-through of the surprising holiday hazards t…

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Guests Complaining About Your Pets? Set Boundaries Without Drama 7:23

22d ago7:23

7:23

Do your holiday guests expect your pets to be quiet, invisible, or perfectly behaved on command? If you have friends or family visiting who are not big pet lovers, it can put pressure on you and cause a lot of confusion for your pets. This "Pet Parent Power-Up" episode breaks down simple ways to keep the peace, protect your pets’ emotional safety, …

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Is Your Child Really Ready for a Pet? 6 Signs You Can’t Ignore 32:33

25d ago32:33

32:33

Are you wondering whether your child is actually ready for a pet, or are they just deep in the “please please please” phase? Most parents hear “Can we get a dog?” on loop, but pet parenting isn’t as simple as saying yes. When kids aren’t truly ready, it can create pet behavior issues, safety concerns, and a whole lot of pet care stress for the adul…

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Pet Bills Keep Surprising You? Here’s How to Plan 31:21

1M ago31:21

31:21

Are pet costs sneaking up on you every month? Instead of scrambling when a vet or food bill hits, what would change if you planned for every common expense ahead of time? Most pet parents underestimate costs because they do not track them, then feel stressed or guilty when money gets tight. In this conversation with Certified Financial Planner Joe …

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How a Microchip Brought My Pet Home After 5 Years, But Yours Might Not 17:58

1M ago17:58

17:58

When my cat disappeared suddenly, I thought I’d never see her again. Five years later, a microchip brought her home to me, but your pet's chip might not. In this episode, I share the incredible story of my barn cat, Puti, and how she found her way back to us after vanishing for five years, even though she had gone completely blind. I’ll also reveal…

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What Happens to Your Pet If You Don’t Make It Home? 34:06

2M ago34:06

34:06

Most pet parents never stop to ask this question until it’s too late. Every week, rescues like mine get heartbreaking calls from families who can’t take their loved one’s pets after a death, move, or medical emergency. The pets - confused, grieving, and suddenly homeless, end up in shelters that should never have become part of their story. And if …

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Choosing a Pet Boarding Facility? Watch for These Red Flags 41:22

2M ago41:22

41:22

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 choos…

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Stop Your Pet Parent Guilt Spiral For Good 42:28

2M ago42:28

42:28

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…

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Stop Trusting Pet Advice on Social Media 22:08

2M ago22:08

22:08

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 har…

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Stop Overpaying for Grooming: What You Can DIY vs Leave to the Pros 48:38

2M ago48:38

48:38

Trying to save money on grooming? Whether you’ve got a dog or a cat, this episode will give you DIY dog grooming tips for beginners, and help you figure out what you can safely and confidently do at home versus what’s better left to the professionals so you can stop overpaying for grooming. Amy talks with Liz Hampton, Director of Grooming and Educa…

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Crate Training Without the Stress 38:40

3M ago38:40

38:40

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 …

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Don’t Buy the Wrong Crate for Your Dog 30:54

3M ago30:54

30:54

Confused about which crate is right for your dog? With so many sizes, styles, and price points, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and to end up wasting time and money on the wrong crate for your dog. 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 chatting with Expert D…

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Cat Won't Use the Litter Box? 6 Rules You’re Probably Breaking 22:45

3M ago22:45

22:45

Understanding cat litter box issues is one of the top problems cat owners face. You think your litter box setup is fine, yet your cat is still peeing on the bath mat or worse, on your bed! 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…

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5 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Get a Pet for Your Child Under 5 18:38

3M ago18:38

18:38

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 m…

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Is Crating Cruel? 5 Surprising Benefits for Your Dog 23:16

4M ago23:16

23:16

Is crating your dog cruel, or could it actually be one of the kindest things you do for them? Many pet parents picture their pup feeling trapped or lonely, so they avoid crates altogether. But when used the right way, a crate can become your dog’s safe space — and one of the most useful tools in your pet parenting toolbox. In this episode, I break …

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How to Avoid Choosing the Wrong Dog Trainer 39:00

4M ago39:00

39:00

Are you at the end of your rope with your dog’s behavior, but not sure if it’s time to hire a professional dog trainer, or worried about picking the wrong one? You’re not alone. The dog training world can feel like the Wild West. With no regulations, conflicting advice, and plenty of flashy websites, it’s hard to know who’s truly qualified to help.…

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Bringing Home a New Cat? Build Trust Fast With the CATS Method 19:05

4M ago19:05

19:05

That friendly, purring shelter cat you fell in love with can sometimes turn into a ghost or even a hissy ball of nerves the moment you get them home. It’s not rejection. It’s survival mode. And how you handle those first few days sets the tone for your entire relationship. Even if you don't have a cat, many aspects of these steps toward acclimating…

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How I Keep My Home Fresh and Fur-Free… Even With 8 Pets 44:24

4M ago44:24

44:24

Do you feel like no matter how much you clean, your home still smells like pets and looks like a fur factory? You’re not alone! In this episode, I’m joined by Tracy Fosterling, pet foster mom and social media favorite, to break down simple, realistic cleaning habits that actually work when you live with pets. Forget the overwhelming deep-clean week…

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Pet Cost Hacks: 6 Ways to Save Money on Pet Food Without Guilt 19:57

5M ago19:57

19:57

Are you tired of feeling like you need a second job just to buy pet food? You're not alone. Prices keep climbing, and if you’ve ever stood in the pet food aisle at the pet store doing mental math and wondering what bill to skip this week, this episode on pet food savings and pet cost hacks is for you. I’m breaking down six smart, realistic pet cost…

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Pet Cost Hacks: 5 Ways to Afford Your Vet Bill Without Stress 19:45

5M ago19:45

19:45

Does a single vet visit feel like it could wipe out your bank account? You're not alone and you’re not doing anything wrong. Too many pet parents walk in for a quick checkup and walk out with a bill they didn’t expect and don’t know how to prevent. In this episode, I’m breaking down the real cost of veterinary care and giving you practical pet cost…

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Is Another Pet the Answer, or a Big Mistake? 14:39

5M ago14:39

14:39

Thinking about adding another pet to your family? Before you give in to those puppy-dog eyes or kitten purrs, hit pause. Because while one more pet can be wonderful, it can also turn your home upside down if the timing or reason isn’t right. In this episode, I’m sharing 4 essential gut checks to help you decide if it’s truly the right time to expan…

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Are You Rewarding the Bad Behavior You Want to Stop? 42:46

5M ago42:46

42:46

Feel like the more you try to fix your dog’s behavior, the worse it gets? If you’re dealing with barking, leash pulling, jumping, or flat-out ignoring commands, the problem might not be your dog: it might be what you’re accidentally reinforcing without realizing it. In this episode, I’m joined by professional dog trainer and behavior consultant Bra…

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Benadryl, Tylenol, Pepto: What’s Safe for Your Pet? 41:16

5M ago41:16

41:16

When your dog’s limping or your cat won’t stop scratching, it’s tempting to reach into your medicine cabinet, but should you? In this episode, I’m joined by returning guest Dr. Zoo, my vet and the veterinarian for Starlight Outreach and Rescue, to tackle one of the most Googled questions in pet parenting: “Can I give my pet human over-the-counter m…

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The Truth About Year-Round Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Meds 43:43

5M ago43:43

43:43

You’re staring at another $200 vet bill and wondering if skipping a month of flea, tick, or heartworm meds will really matter. Your dog barely goes outside. Your cat’s never seen a flea. And those preventatives are not cheap. But what if that one skipped dose turns into a $3,000 emergency—or worse? In this episode, I’m joined by veterinarian Dr. Li…

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New Here? Start With Real Pet Parenting Solutions: The Pet Parent Hotline Trailer 2:07

5M ago2:07

2:07

Think getting a pet would make life better? Instead, you’re staring at sky-high vet bills, a dog that won’t stop barking, a cat refusing the litter box, and endless late-night searches for solutions. That’s why I created The Pet Parent Hotline, your lifeline for real pet parenting advice. This isn’t another fluffy pet podcast. Each week we tackle t…

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Why You're Still Doing All the Pet Care (and How to Get Your Family to Step Up) 26:46

6M ago26:46

26:46

Ever feel like you're the only one who remembers to feed the dog, clean the litter box, or refill the water bowls? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to keep doing all the pet care yourself. This bonus summer episode gives pet advice and a complete system to get your household to step up and share the pet care load, without nagging, yelling, or t…

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Pilot Episode: Your Pet Isn’t the Problem, You Are | 6/8/25 22:24

7M ago22:24

22:24

Is your dog acting “psycho”? Your cat meowing like it’s a Broadway audition? Spoiler alert: the problem might not be your pet—it might be you. In the debut episode of Victoria Knows Pets: Training Your Human, expert pet trainer Victoria Castelhano and her producer-husband Wes dive headfirst into the emotional tug-of-war between pets and their owner…

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Why the “No Kill” Movement Hurts More Than It Helps 53:15

8M ago53:15

53:15

What if the no-kill movement isn’t saving animals but failing them? It promised to end unnecessary euthanasia and revolutionize sheltering. But behind the glowing stats and feel-good slogans lies a much messier reality, one most people don’t want to talk about. In this episode, I sit down with animal welfare expert Daniel Ettinger to expose the uni…

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When Rescue Breaks You: The Cost of Saying Yes Too Much 8:58

8M ago8:58

8:58

When Saving Animals Almost Broke Me What happens when the thing you love the most is the very thing that pushes you past your breaking point? I found out in the middle of a hurricane—soaked, sobbing, and clinging to my barn while sick kittens cried in a barely secured shed. That was the moment I realized something had to change. In this raw, unfilt…

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The Heartworm Mistakes Putting Your Pet at Risk 37:30

9M ago37:30

37:30

Heartworm Truths Every Pet Owner Needs to Hear with Dr. Zoo Think skipping heartworm prevention just this once is no big deal? It only takes one mosquito bite to change your pet’s life forever. Heartworm disease is slow, painful, and completely preventable—yet pets still die from it every year. In this episode, Dr. Zoo shares two cases that prove w…

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Turn Pet Hunger Into Hope for Families in Need 45:38

9M ago45:38

45:38

What if feeding your pet meant you had to skip dinner yourself? For thousands of families, that’s not a hypothetical—it’s a heartbreaking daily decision. And when the bills pile up, surrendering a beloved pet can feel like the only option left. In this episode, I talk with Stacey LeBaron, founder of PAWSitive Pantry and host of The Community Cats P…

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Still Feeling Guilty After Losing a Pet? Here’s Why 53:19

9M ago53:19

53:19

Did I wait too long? Did I do the right thing? What if I failed them? If you’ve lost a beloved pet, you’ve probably asked yourself these same painful questions. Grief is hard enough, but guilt can make healing feel impossible. I’ve been there too. When I had to say goodbye to our 34-year-old rescue horse, Cherokee, I was overwhelmed with guilt, eve…

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Are Hairballs Normal? What Most Cat Parents Get Wrong 35:02

9M ago35:02

35:02

Think hairballs are just a normal part of life with cats? Think again. If your cat is coughing up hairballs weekly or even monthly, it’s not just gross—it’s a red flag. Frequent hairballs can point to stress, food allergies, digestive issues, or even chronic illness. In this episode, I talk with veterinarian Dr. Linda Atkins about what really cause…

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Is Treating Your Pet Like a Baby Actually Hurting Them? 43:29

10M ago43:29

43:29

Is calling your pet your “fur baby” harmless fun or actually harmful to your pet’s well-being? If you’ve ever wondered whether treating your pet like a child is helping or hurting them, you’re not alone. The truth is, humanizing pets isn’t the issue. Misunderstanding their needs is. In this episode, I talk with veterinary psychiatrist Dr. Rachel Ma…

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Thinking About Getting a Dog? Listen to This First 49:56

10M ago49:56

49:56

Thinking about getting a dog? Hold that thought. Too many rescue dog adoptions fail because people fall for a face or a story without understanding what they’re signing up for. Choosing the wrong dog, whether it's a rescue dog or not, can lead to frustration, heartbreak, and sometimes surrender. In this episode, I talk with Pete Campione about how …

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Is Your Dog Getting Too Much Exercise or Not Enough? 39:44

10M ago39:44

39:44

Is your dog getting the right amount of exercise, or are they overdoing it without you realizing? Whether your pup is high-energy, low-key, or somewhere in between, knowing how to safely meet their physical needs is crucial to keeping them healthy and pain-free. But most pet parents don’t know when to push their dog or when to let them rest. In thi…

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Want Goats? What You Need to Know Before You Regret It 50:56

10M ago50:56

50:56

Thinking about getting goats? Don’t let Instagram fool you. Goat ownership isn’t just cute photos and fresh milk. It’s daily work, specific care, and a long-term commitment that catches a lot of new owners off guard. In this episode, I talk with goat expert and homesteader Deborah Niemann, host of the For the Love of Goats podcast, who pulls back t…

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Pet Emergencies Happen Fast. Will You Know What to Do? 40:57

11M ago40:57

40:57

Would you know how to save your pet if they started choking or collapsed from heatstroke? Pet emergencies can happen in seconds, and knowing what to do could be the difference between life and death, especially before you can get to your vet or an emergency vet. Most pet parents aren’t prepared and that’s exactly what this episode aims to change. I…

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Traveling With Cats? Avoid the Stress and Mayhem 57:35

11M ago57:35

57:35

Worried your cat will freak out in the car? You’re not alone. Whether you’re planning a move or just need to get your cat to the vet without a meltdown, cat travel can feel overwhelming. But with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, I talk with Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist LeeAnna Buis about cat care a…

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From the Vault: Pet Vaccination 101: Expert Insights from Dr. Jeff Grognet 41:37

11M ago41:37

41:37

Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #1 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024! While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of your all-time favorite episodes from 2024! In this episode, holistic veterinarian Dr. Jeff Grognet emphasizes the critical importance of understanding pet vaccinations, including core and non-core vaccines, potential …

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From the Vault: Solve the Five Biggest Dog Behavior Problems with Expert Trainer Ruth Hegarty 54:30

11M ago54:30

54:30

Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #2 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024! While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of your all-time favorite episodes of 2024 from the vault! This episode focuses on addressing the top five dog behaviors that frustrate pet owners and providing actionable strategies to manage them effectively. Through i…

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From the Vault: Save on Vet Bills! Expert Advice with Jonathan Wainberg 37:33

12M ago37:33

37:33

Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #3 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024! While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of your all-time favorite episodes of 2024 from the vault! This episode dives into the financial options available for pet healthcare, providing actionable insights to help pet parents prepare for unexpected expenses. Jo…

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From the Vault: Responsible Rabbit Care Explained: with Marcy Berman, Save-a-Bunny Rescue 1:01:08

12M ago1:01:08

1:01:08

Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #4 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024! While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of our listeners' all-time favorite episodes of 2024 from the vault! Understanding responsible rabbit care is essential for anyone considering adding a bunny to their family. Join Amy as she interviews Marcy Berman, foun…

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From the Vault: Dr. Marlene Siegel on Extending Your Pet’s Life 56:36

12M ago56:36

56:36

Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #5 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024! While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of your all-time favorite episodes of 2024 from the vault! In this episode, Dr. Marlene Siegel joins us to explore how integrative veterinary care can transform your pet’s health and longevity. Forget masking symptoms—Dr…

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Farewell Starlight Pet Talk: Celebrating Our Journey and What's Next for 2025 53:57

1y ago53:57

53:57

As we wrap up Starlight Pet Talk, we’re taking a moment to celebrate everything this podcast has meant over the past two years. This episode is all about gratitude, reflection, and a little bit of fun as we look back on the episodes that resonated most with you – our incredible listeners. In this episode, we’re: • Reflecting on the core mission of …

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What’s Broken in Animal Rescue and How to Fix It 1:21:16

1y ago1:21:16

1:21:16

Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy Join us for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation with Daio …

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Should Your Kids Keep Ants as Pets? What Parents Need to Know 47:23

1y ago47:23

47:23

Think keeping ants as pets sounds strange? You might be surprised. Ant keeping is one of the fastest-growing pet hobbies in the world, and it’s easy to see why. These tiny creatures are incredibly social, surprisingly low maintenance, and full of behaviors that will blow your mind. In this episode, I talk with Zachary Liu, a myrmecologist from McGi…

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Thinking Their Food Is “Good Enough”? Upgrade Without Overthinking 46:55

1y ago46:55

46:55

Not sure what’s actually healthy for your pet to eat? You’re not alone. With so many confusing labels, trends, and conflicting advice, knowing what to feed your dog or cat can feel overwhelming. In this episode, I’m joined by certified pet nutritionist and holistic health coach Elizabeth Casas, who breaks down how to create a balanced, healthier di…