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Palpodcast2

The Pets Add Life Podcast

With Kristen Levine & Chris Bonifati

Presented by:
APPAandDOGTV
Chris Bonifati

Chris Bonifati

CEM

Chris Bonifati, CEM, boasts an extensive career within the Pet Industry, notably serving as a key Trade Show organizer for APPA/Global Pet Expo.

Renowned for his adeptness in data-driven decision-making, Chris leverages his skills to craft compelling narratives that resonate with his audience, ensuring optimal experiences at events.

Beyond his pivotal role in shaping the success of Global Pet Expo, Chris indulges his passions, whether immersed in the pages of comic books, embarking on thrilling adventures in the realm of Dungeons & Dragons, or enjoying a round of golf on the course.

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Kristen Levine

Kristen Levine

Pet Expert

Kristen Levine is a nationally acclaimed pet expert, influencer, and author with over 30 years of experience working with pets.

Through her Pet Living blog and over 1,000
media appearances, Kristen has helped millions of pet parents solve problems and provide the best care for their dogs and cats. Her current furry “pal” is Tulip, her adopted min-pin, chihuahua mix.

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Be sure to check out the Pets Add Life Podcast!

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, iHeart Radio, and Pocket Casts

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Episodes:

76. Coral Reefs, Cloning Cats & Clear the Shelters

This week on Pets Add Life, Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati dive into a jam-packed summer episode filled with science, sustainability, and shelter adoptions. First up, Science Magazine editor and author David Grimm joins the show to discuss how pets became family, the science of cat behavior, and why your dog is legally more like a couch than a kid. Then, Tina Lundquist Faust of Houston PetSet shares real stories from the front lines of Houston’s stray dog crisis, and how legislation, adoption centers, and documentaries are helping create a movement. Plus, learn how Sheba cat food is rebuilding coral reefs in Hawaii, what’s happening during August’s Clear the Shelters month, and why pup-friendly dental chews and cat hydration supplements are game-changers.

Special Guests:

Pet Product Recommendations:

Q&A Topics:

  • Sophia from Chicago, IL: “I want to switch my dog to a healthier food and avoid obesity—what should I ask my vet?”
  • Olivia from Phoenix, AZ: “My cat has been vomiting occasionally and has diarrhea. Should I wait it out or go to the vet?”

Related Links:

Social Media & Submissions:

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

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

75. Dog-Friendly Pools, Office Pets & Global Pet Wisdom

It’s the dog days of summer on Pets Add Life, and hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati are cooling things down with stories, science, and two powerhouse guests. First, Anna Webb—a UK-based canine behaviorist, nutritionist, and podcaster—joins to share her integrative approach to pet longevity, raw feeding, and what Brits are getting wrong about their anxious dogs. Then, Beth Bellanti of Tito’s Vodka reveals the heart behind their beloved Vodka for Dog People program, which has supported over 2,300 animal welfare orgs, rehomed 165+ distillery dogs, and helped make office dogs cool again. Plus, find out how to rent a private pool just for your dog, what APPA’s latest data says about cat people, and whether your senior pet needs new supplements or a joint-saving life jacket.

Special Guests:

Pet Product Recommendations:

Q&A Topics:

  • Maria from Denver, CO: “My senior dog is stiff and struggles with stairs—are supplements or vet visits necessary?”
  • David from Houston, TX: “Is a raw food diet safe for my dog, and how can I switch safely?”

Related Links:

Social Media & Submissions:

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

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

74. Raw Food, Rescue Dogs & Bodega Cats

In this episode of Pets Add Life, Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati dive into everything from raw pet food myths to heroic shelter dogs and streetwise New York felines. First, Brian McDonnell of Oma’s Pride shares how his fourth-generation company is redefining pet nutrition with raw food, modern marketing, and authentic personalities. Then, best-selling author and canine search-and-rescue expert Susannah Charleson recounts her extraordinary career flying planes, finding missing persons with dogs, and helping rescues discover new purpose as service animals. Plus, the duo reveals how color-changing pee pads and AI collars are revolutionizing pet health—and NYC considers finally legalizing bodega cats!

Special Guests:

Pet Product Recommendations:

Q&A Topics:

  • Emma from Dallas, TX: “My cat has earwax buildup and scratches a lot. When should I take her to the vet?”
  • Jake from Orlando, FL: “My dog pulls like crazy on walks. What tools and tips can help?”

Related Links:

Social Media & Submissions:

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

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

 

73. Dogs with Super Noses, Pet Industry Insights & Sailing Cats

 

In this globe-trotting and data-packed episode of Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati bring you stories of science, inspiration, and adventure. First up: Roy Ben-Tzvi, founder of The Wolf newsletter, shares his journey from startup founder to pet industry analyst and dives into trends like smart collars, pet supplements, and what makes pet businesses succeed. Then, children’s author and former biologist Stephanie Gibeault teaches us how dogs experience the world—and why butt sniffing is more polite than it seems. Plus, meet a cat who sailed the Pacific, and learn why dogs can smell your stress (and possibly your math anxiety).

Special Guests:

Pet Product Recommendations:

Q&A Topics:

  • Sarah from Phoenix, AZ: “Is my dog overweight? What signs should I look for?”
  • Mark from Denver, CO: “How can I tell if a trainer truly uses positive reinforcement?”

Related Links:

Social Media & Submissions:

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

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

72. The Cone of Shame, Pet Pros & Pets with Paws

In this dynamic episode of Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati spotlight trailblazers in veterinary care and the pet business world. First up is beloved veterinarian Dr. Andy Roark, creator of the “Cone of Shame” podcast and founder of the Uncharted Veterinary Conference. Dr. Roark discusses how humor, empathy, and education fuel his mission to support vets and pet parents alike. Then, Nancy Hassel, founder of American Pet Professionals and host of “Digging Into the Pet Industry,” shares tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, networking insights, and why now is a golden age for the pet biz. Plus, we learn how to tell if your dog is left- or right-pawed, discuss pet allergies, and offer practical pet dental advice from Dr. Roark himself.

Special Guests:

Social Media & Submissions:

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

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

71. Guardian Dogs, Animal Intuition & Fourth of July Pet Safety

In this heartfelt and insightful episode of Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati explore the healing power of animal companionship. First, U.S. Marine veteran and author Karl Riemensperger shares the inspiration behind his beloved “Gunner Goes” children’s book series—based on the real-life adventures of his rescued Labrador, Gunner. Then, pet psychic and animal communicator Danielle MacKinnon joins the show to explain how we can all learn to communicate with animals and deepen the soul-level bond with our pets.

Special Guests:

  • Karl Riemensperger, Author of Gunner Goes Series

  • Danielle MacKinnon, Animal Communicator & Pet Psychic

Pet Product Recommendations:

Social Media & Submissions:

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

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

70. Training Superdogs, Pet Parties & the Happy Cat Hotel

This week on Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati close out Pet Anxiety Awareness Month and ring in the summer with high-energy guests, expert training tips, and a big dose of fun. First, dog trick trainer and America’s Got Talent finalist Sara Carson of The Super Collies shares how she went from outcast teen to international performer and founder of the Pupper App. Then, Gary George, event promoter and co-founder of Barcshella, dishes on launching the first music festival just for dogs and their humans.

Special Guests:

  • Sara Carson, Dog Trainer, Performer & Founder of The Super Collies & Pupper App

  • Gary George, Event Promoter & Co-founder of Barcshella

Pet Product Recommendations:

Social Channels:

Subscribe & Listen:
New episodes every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

Submit Your Questions to the Podcast:
https://petsaddlife.org/podcast

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

69. Behavior Breakthroughs: Tackling Dog Anxiety with Dr. Lisa Radosta & Alex Sessa

This week on the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati dig into dog anxiety and behavior with two powerhouse guests. First, board-certified veterinary behaviorist Dr. Lisa Radosta shares her insights from over two decades of clinical experience. She explains how a pet’s environment, education, and positive support can transform even the most fearful animals. Then, dog trainer and founder of Peach on a Leash, Alex Sessa, reveals her top techniques for building great habits early—and correcting behaviors like jumping and barking with kindness, not force.

Special Guests:

  • Dr. Lisa Radosta, Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist & Founder of Florida Veterinary Behavior Service
  • Alex Sessa, Dog Trainer & Founder of Peach on a Leash Dog Training

Pet Product Recommendations:

Q&A Topics:

  • “My dog becomes extremely anxious during thunderstorms. How can I calm him down?” (Submitted by Michelle from Austin, TX)
  • “My puppy gets overly excited when greeting guests. How do I teach calmer greetings?” (Submitted by Jason from Charlotte, NC)

Related Links:

Social Channels:

Subscribe & Listen:
New episodes every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

Submit Your Questions to the Podcast:
https://petsaddlife.org/podcast

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

 

68. The Science of Dog Anxiety: Expert Advice from Victoria Stilwell & Dr. Nicholas Dodman

This week on Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati dive deep into canine anxiety with two of the most respected experts in animal behavior. First, world-renowned dog trainer Victoria Stilwell discusses the power of positive reinforcement, signs of stress in dogs, and how to help rescue pets adjust to their new homes. Then, pioneering veterinary behaviorist Dr. Nicholas Dodman shares breakthrough insights into the causes of anxiety, natural treatments, and what science says about helping dogs feel safe and calm.

Special Guests:

  • Victoria Stilwell, Dog Trainer, Author & Founder of the Victoria Stilwell Academy

  • Dr. Nicholas Dodman, Professor Emeritus at Tufts University & President of the Center for Canine Behavior Studies

Pet Product Recommendations:

Q&A Topics:

  • “My Border Collie has started chasing his tail and licking obsessively when I’m away. Is this anxiety?” (Submitted by Mark from Seattle, WA)

  • “My rescue dog gets extremely anxious when I leave. How do I use desensitization and counterconditioning?” (Submitted by Rachel from Portland, OR)

Related Links:

Social Channels:

Subscribe & Listen:
New episodes every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

Submit Your Questions to the Podcast:
https://petsaddlife.org/podcast

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

67. Service Dogs, Disability Advocacy & Adopt-a-Cat Month

In this powerful and heartwarming episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati celebrate the start of Pet Anxiety Awareness Month and Adopt-a-Cat Month with two inspiring stories. First, Jamie Simpson, founder of New Life Working Dogs and Embrace Everyday, shares her journey living with epilepsy and training her own life-saving service dog, Echo. Then, Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society, joins the show to discuss the No-Kill 2025 movement, how to get involved in your community, and the latest collaboration with DOGTV’s The Adoption Show.

Special Guests:

  • Jamie Simpson, Founder of New Life Working Dogs & Embrace Everyday

  • Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society

Pet Product Recommendations:

Q&A Topics:

  • “Is it safe for my indoor cat to explore the backyard?” (Submitted by Emily from Portland, OR)

  • “My dog gets anxious from construction next door. What can I do to help?” (Submitted by Michael from Long Island, NY)

Related Links:

Social Channels:

Subscribe & Listen:
New episodes every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

Submit Your Questions to the Podcast:
https://petsaddlife.org/podcast

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

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Be sure to check out the Pets Add Life Podcast!

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, iHeart Radio, and Pocket Casts