The Pets Add Life Podcast

114. Cats Take the Spotlight, Rescue Heroes & The Power of Service Dogs

In this powerful and inspiring episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, recorded live from Global Pet Expo, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore major industry trends, heroic rescue efforts, and the life-changing impact of service animals. From the growing spotlight on cats to stories of resilience and community, this episode highlights how pets continue to transform lives in meaningful ways.

Story Time features:
Chris shares a major trend from Global Pet Expo: cats are officially having their moment, with cat-focused products selling out faster than ever and brands investing more thoughtfully in feline-specific innovation.

Kristen highlights the incredible work of Project K-9 Hero, an organization dedicated to supporting retired military and police working dogs, ensuring they receive the care and recognition they deserve after their service.

Special Guests:
Jamie Simpson, Service Dog Advocate & Content Creator

Leah Craig, Executive Director, Brother Wolf Animal Rescue

Pet Product Recommendations:
Petmate Chuckit! Dog Launcher & Cat Cooling Mat – https://www.petmate.com

PetSport Dog Toys & Rope Toys – https://www.petsport.com

Q&A Topics:
My dog pulls on walks and makes it stressful — how can I train loose leash walking without using harsh methods? (Submitted by Jason from Denver, CO)

My indoor cat seems bored — what are the best ways to keep them mentally stimulated and engaged? (Submitted by Ethan from Portland, OR)

Related Links:
Project K-9 Hero: https://projectk9hero.org

Brother Wolf Animal Rescue: https://www.bwar.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

113. Pet Scams, Gen X Trends & The Power of Storytelling in Pet Adoption

Special Guests:
Jane Lauder, Founder, Talk Ventures

Adam Goldberg, Founder, Second Shot Adoption Photography

Lisa Marie York, NYC Yorkie Girl

Pet Product Recommendations:
Annamaet Petfoods – https://annamaet.com/

Earth Animal Holistic Pet Food & Treats – https://www.earthanimal.com

Q&A Topics:
My dog gets anxious when I leave the house, barking, pacing, and chewing — how can I help reduce separation anxiety? (Submitted by Rachel from Chicago, IL)

My cat hides whenever guests come over — how can I help her become more comfortable and social around new people? (Submitted by Lauren from San Diego, CA)

Related Links:
Second Shot Adoption Photography: https://agoldphoto.com/

NYC Yorkie Girls: https://www.instagram.com/nycyorkiegirls

Pet Advocacy Network (Pet Scam Awareness): https://petadvocacy.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

112. Canine Fitness, Senior Pet Benefits & The Future of Pet-Inclusive Living

In this engaging spring episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the importance of pet fitness, the emotional benefits of pet ownership for older adults, and the growing movement toward pet-inclusive travel and housing. With expert insights and real-world trends, this episode highlights how pets continue to shape our lifestyles, health, and communities.

Story Time features:
Kristen highlights National Canine Fitness Month, encouraging pet parents to go beyond daily walks and incorporate strength, enrichment, and mental stimulation activities to improve their dog’s overall health and longevity.

Chris shares findings from the University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging, showing that 83% of adults over 50 say their pets give them a sense of purpose — while also noting that cost remains a major barrier to pet ownership for many seniors.

Special Guests:
Luis Zamora, Co-Founder, PetsVivo

Dr. Angela Lennox, Avian & Exotic Animal Veterinarian

Pet Product Recommendations:
IKEA Lurvig Cat Scratching Mat – https://www.ikea.com

FitPAWS Canine Fit Bone – https://fitpawsusa.com

Q&A Topics:
My dog is terrified of loud noises like thunderstorms and fireworks — how can I help him cope with these fears? (Submitted by Mark from Denver, CO)

My indoor cat suddenly started scratching furniture despite having a scratching post — why is this happening and how can I redirect the behavior? (Submitted by Olivia from Portland, OR)

Related Links:
PetsVivo / Pet Compass: https://www.petsvivo.com

Association of Avian Veterinarians: https://www.aav.org

Fear Free Certified Practices: https://fearfreepets.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

111. Pet Industry Trends, Behavior Science & The Real Cost of Pet Care

In this insightful and lively episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the evolving pet industry, rising costs of pet care, and major breakthroughs in animal behavior science. From behind-the-scenes innovation at Global Pet Expo to expert insights on training, anxiety, and veterinary care, this episode helps pet parents better understand both the emotional and financial sides of pet ownership.

Story Time features:
Chris shares highlights from Global Pet Expo’s new content studio initiative, where brands and influencers created high-impact media on-site — showcasing how the pet industry is evolving its storytelling and marketing strategies.

Kristen explores a surprising economic trend: in cities like San Francisco, dog daycare can now cost more than childcare — reflecting the growing prioritization of pets as family members and the increasing financial commitment of pet ownership.

Special Guests:
Dr. Katherine Houpt, Veterinary Behaviorist & Professor Emeritus, Cornell University

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

Pet Product Recommendations:
Give Pet Birthday Treats (Freeze-Dried Beef Liver) – https://www.givepet.com

Wondercide Flea & Tick Yard Spray – https://www.wondercide.com

Q&A Topics:
How can I tell the difference between a true pet emergency and something that can wait until my regular vet opens? (Submitted by Natalie from Columbus, OH)

How should I approach decisions about pet vaccinations when there’s so much conflicting information online? (Submitted by David from Tampa, FL)

Related Links:
American College of Veterinary Behaviorists: https://www.dacvb.org

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

Fear Free Certified Practices: https://fearfreepets.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

110. Pet Tech, Snake Safety & Cutting Through Veterinary Misinformation

In this insightful and entertaining episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore emerging pet health technology, unusual animal behaviors, and the growing need for trustworthy veterinary information. From body composition innovation and snake safety to expert advice on fear-free care and online pet myths, this episode delivers both practical guidance and eye-opening insights for modern pet parents.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares a fascinating look at Dexa scanning technology and how it could revolutionize how veterinarians measure pet body composition — offering a more accurate alternative to traditional weight and visual assessments as pet obesity continues to rise.

Chris highlights a bizarre but real pet care issue: snakes eating their own tails, explaining why it happens and sharing a simple (but surprising) vet-approved method to safely interrupt the behavior.

Special Guests:
Dr. Sylvalyn Hammond, Veterinarian & “The Honest Vet”

Dr. Andy Roark, Veterinarian, Educator & Host of The Cone of Shame Podcast

Pet Product Recommendations:
Non-stop Dogwear Fjord Raincoat 2.0 – https://www.nonstopdogwear.com

Tick Mitt Tick Sidekick Removal Tool – https://www.tickmitt.com

Q&A Topics:
My senior dog is slowing down and sleeping more — how do I know if this is normal aging or a sign of a medical issue? (Submitted by Karen from Denver, CO)

My cat has bad breath but seems otherwise healthy — how serious is dental disease and when should I intervene? (Submitted by Olivia from Minneapolis, MN)

Related Links:
The Honest Vet (Dr. Sylvalyn Hammond): https://www.instagram.com/thehonestvet

The Cone of Shame Podcast (Dr. Andy Roark): https://drandyroark.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

109. Pet Recalls, Hedgehog Highways & Heroes Helping Animals Thrive

In this engaging and wide-ranging episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore important pet safety updates, creative conservation efforts, and inspiring stories of people making a difference for animals. From FDA recalls to hedgehog rescue initiatives and life-changing work with veterans and pets, this episode highlights both the challenges and the heart of the pet world.

Story Time features:
Chris shares an important FDA recall alert for Quest Cat Food due to low thiamine levels, reminding pet parents to check lot numbers carefully and stay informed about pet food safety updates.

Kristen highlights a creative conservation effort in the UK, where homeowners are building “hedgehog highways” — small openings between fences that allow hedgehogs to safely travel between gardens, helping protect the species from habitat loss.

Special Guests:
Bonnie-Jill Laflin, Founder & CEO, Hounds and Heroes

Dr. Jennifer Bruns, Senior Director of Veterinary Relations, PetSmart

Pet Product Recommendations:
Pupford Coffee Wood Dog Chews – https://pupford.com

Mau Cat Tree Furniture – https://www.maupets.com

Q&A Topics:
My dog has recurring vomiting or diarrhea every few weeks but seems fine otherwise. When should I be concerned and seek veterinary care? (Submitted by Megan from Charlotte, NC)

There’s so much conflicting information online about pet vaccinations. How do I know which vaccines are truly necessary for my dog? (Submitted by Brian from San Diego, CA)

Related Links:
Hounds and Heroes: https://www.houndsandheroes.com

PetSmart Veterinary Services: https://www.petsmart.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

108. Pet Travel, Irish Dog Breeds & Helping Animals in War Zones

In this special St. Patrick’s Day episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the global impact pets have on our lives — from international travel and cultural traditions to the powerful role animals play even in times of war. With expert insights and inspiring stories, this episode highlights the deep human–animal bond across borders, communities, and crises.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares a festive St. Patrick’s Day fact: Ireland has more native dog breeds than almost any other country, including iconic breeds like the Irish Wolfhound, Irish Setter, and the Kerry Blue Terrier — each deeply tied to the nation’s history and culture.

Chris discusses a recent MetLife pet owner survey showing that 65% of pet parents would cut back on their own spending before reducing what they spend on their pets — a powerful reminder of how central animals are to our emotional well-being.

Special Guests:
Lauren Anders Brown, Founder & CEO, PadsPass

Nate Mook, Co-Founder, Hachiko Foundation

Pet Product Recommendations:
Kurgo Kibble Carrier Travel Bag – https://www.kurgo.com

Happy Kitties Window Cat Hammock – https://www.amazon.com

Q&A Topics:
What’s the best way to introduce a dog and a new cat so both animals feel safe and avoid stress or conflict? (Submitted by Lauren from Madison, WI)

What early warning signs should pet parents watch for that indicate their pet may need to see a veterinarian? (Submitted by Michael from Hoboken, NJ)

Related Links:
PadsPass Digital Pet Passport: https://www.padspass.com

Hachiko Foundation: https://www.hachikofoundation.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

107. Golden Retriever Festivals, Cat Behavior Secrets & The Truth About Canine Fitness

In this fun and insightful episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the science and culture behind our favorite companions. From massive dog festivals and FDA safety updates to expert insights on cat behavior and canine conditioning, this episode highlights how thoughtful care, enrichment, and understanding animal behavior can dramatically improve pets’ lives.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares the heartwarming story of Goldens in Golden, an annual event in Golden, Colorado that brings together thousands of golden retrievers and their owners from across the world — transforming the small mountain town into one of the largest dog gatherings on the planet.

Chris shares an important consumer alert about the arthritis medication Librela, highlighting recent FDA reports of potential adverse side effects and reminding pet parents to maintain regular veterinary checkups, especially for senior pets on long-term medications.

PAL 107

Special Guests:
Laura Cassiday, Certified Cat Behavior Consultant & Author of The Complete Guide to Adopting a Cat

Dr. Carrie Britt, Veterinarian & Canine Conditioning Specialist

Pet Product Recommendations:
Applaws Natural Cat Food – https://applaws.com

Icelandic+ Cod Skin Sprinkles Pet Food Topper – https://www.icelandicplus.com

Q&A Topics:
My dog constantly scratches and gets recurring ear infections. Could this be related to diet, and how can I address the root cause? (Submitted by Amanda from Raleigh, NC)

My cat hides whenever guests visit and won’t come out for hours. Is this anxiety and how can I help her feel more comfortable? (Submitted by Leanna from Portland, OR)

Related Links:
Positive Vibes Cat Behavior Training: https://positivevibescats.com

Laura Cassiday Book – The Complete Guide to Adopting a Cat: https://www.amazon.com

Dr. Carrie Britt: https://www.canineconditioningcoach.com

Goldens in Golden Event: https://www.goldensingolden.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

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