The Pets Add Life Podcast

106. Backyard Chickens, Canine Science & Rethinking How Dogs Love Us

In this lively March edition of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the fascinating intersection of pet science, backyard farming, and the emotional lives of dogs. From the surprising rise of hobby livestock to cutting-edge research on canine cognition and love, this episode challenges assumptions while offering practical guidance for modern pet families.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares insights into the growing popularity of professional pet sitting, highlighting National Professional Pet Sitters Week and the increasing demand for certified pet care support across the country.

Chris explores global pet naming traditions, including France’s unique alphabetical naming system for purebred dogs — a cultural twist on how we define identity and connection with our pets.

Special Guests:
Dr. Clive D. L. Wynne, Professor of Psychology, Arizona State University & Director, Canine Science Collaboratory

Dr. Mike Pesato, President, American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners

Pet Product Recommendations:
Cat Sushi Bonito Flakes Cat Food Topper – https://www.chewy.com/cat-sushi-bonito-flakes-classic-cut/dp/1301294

Muddy Mat Super Absorbent Door Mat – https://amzn.to/3O3EuvV

Q&A Topics:
My dog freezes in the snow and refuses to walk or even go to the bathroom outside. How can I help him feel more comfortable in winter? (Submitted by Ethan from Burlington, VT)

Our dog keeps chewing furniture and table legs, and it’s pushing us to the breaking point. Is this anxiety, boredom, or something else — and how do we stop it? (Submitted by Mark from Plano, TX)

Related Links:
Canine Science Collaboratory (ASU): https://caninesciencecollaboratory.com

Dr. Clive Wynne: https://clivewynne.com

Four State Veterinary Services: https://fourstatevet.com

Pet Sitters International: https://www.petsit.com

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV Unleashed FAST Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Pets Add Life (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife

Pets Add Life (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@petsaddlife

Subscribe & Listen:
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts!

Submit a question to the podcast:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by: American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV

105. Gut Health, Holistic Healing & The Power of Proactive Pet Care

In this dynamic and educational episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore proactive pet wellness from every angle — from groundbreaking AI-powered dental tools to the latest gut microbiome research and holistic approaches to long-term health. This episode highlights how prevention, education, and informed decision-making can dramatically improve quality of life for pets and their families.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares exciting news from Mars Petcare’s launch of an AI-powered dental screening tool, the Greenies Canine Dental Check, which allows dog owners to upload a photo of their dog’s teeth and receive instant feedback on tartar buildup and gum health.

Chris highlights a heartwarming local rescue story out of Norwalk, Connecticut, where firefighters successfully saved an adult swan trapped in icy waters — proving once again that first responders are heroes for animals too.

Special Guests:
Dr. Dody Tyneway Robi, Founder, Holistic Vet Blend

Dr. Judy Morgan, Integrative Veterinarian & Founder, Naturally Healthy Pets

Pet Product Recommendations:
Woof Bite & Brush Dental Toy – https://mywoof.com

Greenies Feline Dental Treats – https://www.greenies.com

Q&A Topics:
We’re thinking about bringing a horse into our family. What level of care and commitment should new horse owners realistically expect? (Submitted by Claire from Lexington, KY)

How can I reduce tension and occasional fights in a multi-cat household? (Submitted by Ethan from Portland, OR)

Related Links:
Holistic Vet Blend: https://holisticvetblend.com

Dr. Judy Morgan: https://drjudymorgan.com

Naturally Healthy Pets Podcast: https://drjudymorgan.com/pages/podcast

Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC): https://vohc.org

Mystic Aquarium: https://www.mysticaquarium.org

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV Unleashed FAST Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Pets Add Life (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife

Pets Add Life (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@petsaddlife

Subscribe & Listen:
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts!

Submit a question to the podcast:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by: American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV

104. Small Rescues, Veterinary Behavior & Why Prevention Matters

In this thoughtful and insight-packed episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine dive into rescue advocacy, behavioral medicine, and preventative care. From inspiring nonprofit storytelling to the science behind veterinary behavior support and dental health awareness, this episode highlights the importance of early intervention, education, and compassionate care for pets and their families.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares exciting new research mapping the largest catalog of the healthy dog gut microbiome to date, paving the way for more accurate nutrition guidance and microbiome-based health insights tailored specifically to dogs.

Chris highlights conservation success closer to home: Mystic Aquarium welcomed two critically endangered African penguin chicks during a winter storm, a major milestone in global species survival efforts.

Special Guests:
Sam Spoto, Founder & Executive Director, Tell Me About Your Dog

Dr. Chris Pachel, Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist & Founder, Animal Behavior Clinic

Pet Product Recommendations:
HICC Pet Dental Finger Wipes – https://www.chewy.com/hicc-pet-finger-glove-cat-dog-dental/dp/769934

Catstages Buggin’ Out Puzzle & Play Cat Feeder – https://amzn.to/3NGh3ZD

Q&A Topics:
My dog’s teeth look fine to me, but my vet keeps recommending dental care. How do I know when dental health is truly a problem? (Submitted by Mark from Scottsdale, AZ)

Should I feed my cat wet food, dry food, or a mix of both to keep her healthy long-term? (Submitted by Olivia from Brooklyn, NY)

Related Links:
Tell Me About Your Dog: https://www.tellmeaboutyourdogpodcast.com

Animal Behavior Clinic: https://animalbehaviorclinic.net

Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC): https://vohc.org

Mystic Aquarium: https://www.mysticaquarium.org

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV Unleashed FAST Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Pets Add Life (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife

Pets Add Life (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@petsaddlife

Subscribe & Listen:
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts!

Submit a question to the podcast:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by: American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV

103. Valentine’s Love, Animal Bonds & Why Pets Become Our Heartmates

In this Valentine’s Day–themed episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore love in all its forms — romantic, familial, and especially the deep emotional bonds we share with animals. From how pet parents celebrate Valentine’s Day with their pets to hopeful conservation news and groundbreaking research on human–animal attachment, this episode is a heartfelt reminder of why pets truly add life.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares new survey data revealing that 70% of U.S. pet parents buy Valentine’s Day gifts for their pets, with spending expected to reach $3.7 billion. Millennials lead the trend, treating pets as close companions and proudly sharing the love on social media.

Chris highlights uplifting conservation news: giant pandas have been reclassified from “endangered” to “vulnerable,” marking a major milestone for global wildlife conservation efforts and showing that sustained protection and awareness can make a real difference.

Special Guests:
Dr. Monique Udell, Human–Animal Bond Scientist & Associate Professor, Oregon State University

Dr. Naomi Hoyer, Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist

Pet Product Recommendations:
Oxbow Applewood Chew Sticks (for small animals) – https://www.oxbowanimalhealth.com

Maxbone Stranger Things Pet Collection – https://www.maxbone.com/products/

Q&A Topics:
Are there science-backed ways to deepen the bond with a dog if it doesn’t feel instant or natural? (Submitted by Alex from Boulder, CO)

Do fish recognize their owners, or is the calming connection of aquariums one-sided? (Submitted by Ryan from San Mateo, CA)

Related Links:
Human–Animal Interaction Lab (Oregon State University): https://haib.org

Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC): https://vohc.org

Wildlife Conservation Society: https://www.wcs.org

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV Unleashed FAST Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Pets Add Life (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife

Pets Add Life (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@petsaddlife

Subscribe & Listen:
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts!

Submit a question to the podcast:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by: American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV

102. Super Bowl Dogs, NFL Advocacy & High-Energy Enrichment for Every Pup

In this fun, timely, and high-energy Super Bowl–themed episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine celebrate the intersection of sports, pets, and play. From the Puppy Bowl and celebrity dogs to professional athletes advocating for rescue and cutting-edge canine enrichment, this episode highlights how pets bring balance, joy, and purpose into even the most high-pressure lives.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares highlights from the upcoming Puppy Bowl, now in its 22nd year, spotlighting more than 150 rescue dogs from shelters across the U.S. This year’s event puts special focus on senior dogs and pups with special needs, emphasizing adoption for dogs of all ages and abilities.

Chris shares a behind-the-scenes story from the hit series The Traitors, revealing that host Alan Cumming’s rescue dog appears on the show — but refuses to bark on cue, requiring producers to dub in barking sounds. A charming reminder that even TV dogs get to be themselves.

Special Guests:
Jake Martin, Defensive End, Washington Commanders & Animal Welfare Advocate

Meghan Wolfgram, Founder & CEO, SwiftPaws

Pet Product Recommendations:
Pets First NFL-Licensed Dog Jerseys – https://petsfirstcompany.com

Nylabone Power Chew Textured Dental Chews – https://www.nylabone.com

Q&A Topics:
Are dental chews enough if my dog hates having his teeth brushed, or am I missing something important? (Submitted by Rachel from Scottsdale, AZ)

My cat hides whenever there are changes in the house — new people, smells, or furniture. How can I help my anxious cat feel more secure? (Submitted by Lina from San Francisco, CA)

Related Links:
Puppy Bowl: https://www.discovery.com/shows/puppy-bowl

SwiftPaws: https://swiftpaws.com

Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC): https://vohc.org

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV Unleashed FAST Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Pets Add Life (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife

Pets Add Life (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@petsaddlife

Subscribe & Listen:
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts!

Submit a question to the podcast:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by: American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV

101. Pet-Friendly Spaces & Dental Health

In this moving and insightful episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore how pets help create inclusion, connection, and community. From medieval cats in art to modern dog-centered social spaces, and from therapy dogs in classrooms to the importance of oral health, this episode highlights how animals continue to shape human lives in profound ways.

Story Time features:
Chris shares a fascinating story from the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore, where a new exhibit titled Paws on Parchment showcases how cats appeared in medieval manuscripts — including preserved inky paw prints from a 15th-century monastery cat that walked across a monk’s work.

Kristen highlights a new dog-centered destination in Portland, Maine — an all-season indoor/outdoor dog park, daycare, and social space designed to bring people and pets together, offering a modern solution to community-building and social connection.

Special Guests:
Chris Hanna, Founder of the Team Cole Project

Dr. Jan Bellows, Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist & Educator

Pet Product Recommendations:
Simplehuman Airtight Pet Food Storage Container – https://amzn.to/4jLVEu4

PlaqueOff Powder for Cats (Swedencare) – https://us.swedencare.com/proden-plaqueoff-powder-for-cats/

Q&A Topics:
Is it too late to socialize an adult dog that missed early socialization during the pandemic? (Submitted by Evan from Brooklyn, NY)

How can pet parents balance vaccines, parasite prevention, and testing to keep pets healthy without overdoing it? (Submitted by Kim from Orlando, FL)

Related Links:
Team Cole Project: https://thedeafdog.com

Walters Art Museum: https://thewalters.org

Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC): https://vohc.org

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV Unleashed FAST Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Pets Add Life (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife

Pets Add Life (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@petsaddlife

Subscribe & Listen:
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts!

Submit a question to the podcast:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by: American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV

100. Celebrating 100 Episodes: Pets, People & the Power of the Human–Animal Bond

In this milestone 100th episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine celebrate everything that has made the show what it is today — the pets, the people, the stories, and the powerful bond that connects them all. Recorded as the team heads into VMX, this special episode reflects on how far the podcast has come and where it’s headed next.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares a fun and timely story about the newly revealed U.S. Soccer mascot for the 2026 World Cup — a dog — symbolizing loyalty, courage, and the growing cultural connection between sports, pets, and people.

Chris highlights key insights from the latest APPA Bird, Small Animal & Horse Ownership Report, including rising Gen Z interest in birds and small pets, shifting ownership trends, and what they reveal about the future of pet care.

Special Guests:
Jolie Dudley, Co-Founder of Must Love Dogs and Comedy

Dr. Deborah Mandell, Professor of Emergency & Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania Ryan Veterinary Hospital

Pet Product Recommendations:
Uproot Clean Pet Hair Removal Tools – https://uprootclean.com/

Diggs Groov Treat & Lick Dispenser – https://amzn.to/48EdmKG

Special Segment:
To mark the 100th episode, Chris and Kristen share 100 Ways Pets Add Life — a rapid-fire, heartfelt celebration of how animals enrich our homes, routines, relationships, and emotional well-being every single day.

Q&A Topics:
Why would a healthy cat suddenly stop using the litter box, and how can pet parents fix it? (Submitted by Trent from Denver, CO)

With so many vaccines, parasite preventatives, and tests available, what does my pet really need each year — and what’s optional? (Submitted by Kim from Orlando, FL)

Related Links:
American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

Must Love Dogs and Comedy: https://mustlovedogsandcomedy.org

American Red Cross Pet First Aid App: https://www.redcross.org

DOGTV Unleashed FAST Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Pets Add Life (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife

Pets Add Life (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@petsaddlife

Subscribe & Listen:
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts!

Submit a question to the podcast:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by: American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV

99. Pet Health Breakthroughs, Vet Insights & Navigating Complex Pet Households

In this informative and fast-moving episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore emerging trends in pet health, responsible pet ownership, and the evolving relationship between veterinarians and pet parents. From medical innovation to real-life household challenges, this episode delivers practical insight for modern pet families.

Story Time features:
Kristen highlights a new clinical trial exploring GLP-1–based therapy for overweight cats, a potential breakthrough as feline obesity continues to rise across the U.S.

Chris shares an important cautionary story on the rise of online wildlife sales, explaining why exotic pets should never be purchased sight-unseen online and why ethical, regulated specialty retailers matter.

Special Guests:
Dr. Tiffany Tipler, Senior Manager of Veterinary Relations, Chewy Health

Dr. Dana Varble, Chief Veterinary Officer, North American Veterinary Community (NAVC)

Pet Product Recommendations:
Interactive Automatic Cat Door-Frame Toy (USB Rechargeable) – available via Amazon

Blue Buffalo Love Made Fresh Refrigerated Dog Food – available at Target, Walmart & local grocers

Q&A Topics:
How concerned should pet parents in the Southwest be about Valley Fever in dogs, and what early signs should they watch for? (Submitted by Mike from Scottsdale, AZ)

We have three dogs — two get along great, but the third feels like an outsider. How can we reduce tension and create harmony at home? (Submitted by Rachel from Nashville, TN)

Related Links:
Chewy Health:https://www.chewy.com/health

North American Veterinary Community (NAVC): https://navc.com

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV Unleashed FAST Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Pets Add Life (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife

Pets Add Life (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@petsaddlife

Subscribe & Listen:
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts!

Submit a question to the podcast:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by: American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV

98. A Pets Add Life Throwback: Amber Marshall on Animals, Acting & the Human–Animal Bond

In this special New Year episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine take a brief pause from new programming to revisit one of their most memorable interviews. To kick off 2026 with inspiration and heart, the team replays a standout conversation recorded at Global Pet Expo with a true animal-loving celebrity.

Featured Conversation:
Kristen Levine and guest co-host Dr. Courtney Campbell sit down with Amber Marshall, star of the long-running series Heartland. Amber shares how her lifelong love of animals shaped both her career and personal life, why working alongside horses and dogs keeps her grounded, and how animals bring calm, authenticity, and connection to every set she’s on.

The conversation explores the emotional intelligence of animals, the importance of animal welfare in film and media, and how caring for animals can profoundly change the way we show up in the world.

Special Guests:
Amber Marshall, Actress, Animal Advocate & Star of Heartland

Dr. Courtney Campbell, Veterinary Surgeon & Guest Co-Host

Related Links:
Global Pet Expo: https://globalpetexpo.org

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV Unleashed FAST Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Pets Add Life (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife

Pets Add Life (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@petsaddlife

Subscribe & Listen:
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts!

Submit a question to the podcast:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by: American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV

97. New Year Reflections, Animal Intelligence & The Healing Power of Dogs

In this New Year’s Eve edition of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine reflect on the year ahead with thought-provoking stories, inspiring guests, and meaningful conversations about the human-animal bond. From surprising animal intelligence to life-changing relationships between pets and people, this episode sets the tone for a compassionate and hopeful new year.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares a roundup of pet industry stock trends and investment insights, highlighting how rising veterinary care costs and pet insurance adoption are shaping the future of the pet economy heading into 2026.

Chris breaks down a fascinating news story from British Columbia where a wild wolf was captured on video using a floating object to retrieve food from a trap — a possible first documented case of tool use by a wild wolf, offering new insight into animal intelligence and problem-solving.

Special Guests:
Aimee Gilbreath, President, PetSmart Charities®

Julie Barton, Author of Dog Medicine: How My Dog Saved Me from Myself

Pet Product Recommendations:
Oxbow Critical Care Carnivore (for sick or recovering cats and carnivorous pets) – https://www.chewy.com/oxbow-critical-care-carnivore-small/dp/704838

MicroDog “Clarity” Cognitive Support Supplement for Senior Dogs – https://mycodog.com/products/mycodog-clarity?variant=40604507832383

Q&A Topics:
How can I create a safe, enriching home environment for a pet rabbit, and what are the most common mistakes new rabbit owners make? (Submitted by Daniel from Columbus, OH)

My cat scratches all the furniture and my spouse is at their breaking point — how can we redirect this behavior without stressing our cat? (Submitted by Michael from Atlanta, GA)

Related Links:
PetSmart Charities: https://www.petsmartcharities.org

Julie Barton – Dog Medicine: https://juliebarton.com/dog-medicine

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV Unleashed FAST Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Pets Add Life (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife

Pets Add Life (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife

Pets Add Life (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@petsaddlife

Subscribe & Listen:
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts!

Submit a question to the podcast:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by: American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV