83. Nature, TV & Tail‑Wagging Wellness

In this refreshingly joyful episode of Pets Add Life, Kristin Levine is joined by guest co‑host Dr. Ross Henderson. Together they explore canine cognition and the wild call of nature—digging into how dogs interact with screens, environments, and their own wellbeing. With science, stories, and playful cheat codes for better pet days, it’s a show designed to help you tune in to your pet’s needs and full expression.

Story Time

Dr. Ross’s Miraculous Basset Rescue
At Fox Hollow Animal Hospital, Ross shares the heartbreaking yet inspiring story of a basset hound puppy, named “Gracie,” who arrived with symptoms like parvo but ultimately turned out to have intestinal telescoping (intussusception). Following risky specialist surgery, Gracie made a full recovery—playing, eating, and thriving. A reminder: sometimes hope + action = miracles.
Sip & Sniff: Dog‑Friendly Winery Tours Rising
Kristin reports on the growing trend of winery and vineyard tours designed for dogs—think wine tastings, vineyard walks, pup treats, and even dog‑sitting or dog‑friendly bus tours. A leisure pursuit that blends human indulgence with canine joy.

Special Guests

Dr. Jeffrey S. Katz, PhD
Comparative cognition psychologist at Auburn University. Co‑author of the recent open‑access Scientific Reports study “Characterizing TV Viewing Habits in Companion Dogs”, which found that ~88% of dogs in surveyed households attend to TV and that excitement and anxiety levels predict how they respond to content. Nature+1
Tiffany Jones
Founder of Forest Tails Doggy Day Camp, a 12‑acre nature‑based adventure camp just outside Goderich, Ontario. Designed for dog wellness through forest trails, pond swims, scent exploration, and nature immersion. Forest Tails Doggy Day Camp+1

Pet Product Recommendations

“Chuck It” Launcher + High‑Bounce Balls Combo
Ross’s high‑energy option: a launcher + balls (safe material), for far‑flung throws and fetch games that burn energy and build engagement outdoors.
Pizza Party Treat Puzzle
Kristin’s pick: a beginner’s puzzle feeder shaped like pizza. Ideal for dogs new to puzzles or slower to engage. Slows eating + offers mental enrichment. Under $20, great reviews.

Q&A from Listeners

How often should pets get exams & vaccinations?
Ross recommends annual visits for healthy younger dogs. Puppies require more frequent veterinary visits following vaccine schedules. Senior or medically compromised pets may benefit from semiannual wellness check‑ups. Preventative care and monitoring vital signs & body condition score make a difference.
Is my dog overweight? How do I know, and what should I do?
Tips:
• Use body condition score rather than scale weight alone.
• Ribs should be easily felt; waist‑tuck should be visible when viewed from above.
• Adjust food type, quantity, treat intake; increase play & exercise.
• Rule out medical causes (e.g. thyroid issues).

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