The Pets Add Life Podcast

120. Pet Anxiety Awareness Month: Understanding Fear, Stress & Anxiety in Pets

In this special live episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine kick off the 10th annual Pet Anxiety Awareness Month. Joined by two leading experts in animal behavior and veterinary medicine, the conversation explores the causes of fear, stress, and anxiety in pets, how these conditions affect physical and emotional well-being, and what pet parents can do to help their dogs and cats live more confident, comfortable lives.

Story Time features:
Chris shares the heartwarming story of a woman who adopted a cat to help with her own mental health, only to discover that her new feline companion struggled with anxiety too. Together, they helped each other heal, highlighting the powerful bond between pets and people.

Kristen reflects on the inspiration behind Pet Anxiety Awareness Month, sharing the story of her beloved dog Buck and how his battle with separation anxiety led her to create a nationwide awareness campaign dedicated to helping pet parents recognize and treat anxiety-related conditions.

Special Guests:
Debbie Martin, Licensed Veterinary Technician, Veterinary Technician Specialist (Behavior), Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner & Elite Fear Free Certified® Professional

Dr. Kiona Williams, Veterinarian, Chewy Vet Care & Fear Free Certified Professional

Pet Product Recommendations:
Calmer Canine – https://assisi.zomedica.com/products/calmer-canine/

Chuckit! Launchers & Fetch Toys – https://www.chuckit-toys.com

DOGTV – https://www.dogtv.com

Reconcile – https://www.reconcile.com

SecureDog & SecureCat Pheromone Products http://www.securebysigns.com/us/products/securedog

Fresh Patch – https://www.freshpatch.com

Ease Pet Vet – https://easepetvet.com

Atomic Bubbles – https://atomicbubbles.com

Q&A Topics:
My dog seems perfectly happy when we’re together, but the moment I leave the house he starts barking, whining, and sometimes destroys things. How can I tell if this is true separation anxiety, and what are the best steps to help him feel more comfortable being alone? (Submitted by Jessica from Charlotte, NC)

My cat has been licking himself so much that he’s starting to lose hair. We’ve ruled out skin issues and fleas. Could this be anxiety, and what can I do to help? (Submitted by Lizzy via YouTube Live)

Related Links:
Pet Anxiety Awareness Month: https://petanxietyawareness.com

Fear Free Pets: https://fearfreepets.com

Chewy Vet Care: https://www.chewy.com/b/vet-care-17377

DOGTV Understanding Pet Anxiety Special: https://www.dogtv.com

Ease Pet Vet: https://easepetvet.com

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

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

119. Dr. Pol, Ziggy the Corgi & How Pets Keep Changing Lives

In this lively episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, recorded live from Global Pet Expo, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore heroic animal rescue, growing Gen X pet ownership trends, practical veterinary wisdom, and the joyful world of corgi racing. From pets rescued by drones in Ukraine to Dr. Jan Pol’s decades of real-world veterinary experience and Ziggy the Corgi’s rise in sports entertainment, this episode celebrates the many ways pets bring purpose, connection, and joy into our lives.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares the incredible story of Ukrainian soldiers who used a military drone to rescue a stranded dog and cat from the front lines, helping bring the animals to safety during an active war zone.

Chris highlights new APPA research showing that Gen X pet owners are driving significant growth across multiple pet categories, including dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and freshwater fish.

Special Guests:
Dr. Jan Pol, Veterinarian & Star of The Incredible Dr. Pol

Jess Ramberg, Creator of Ziggy the Corgi & Founder of Little Stumps Racing

Pet Product Recommendations:
Playology Scented Dog Toys – https://playologypets.com

The Lazy Dog Cookie Co. Pup-PIE® & Birthday Treats – https://lazydogcookies.com

Q&A Topics:
There’s so much conflicting information online about dog food. How can pet parents tell if their dog is actually thriving on a certain diet? (Submitted by Andrew from Phoenix, AZ)

My cat hides every time someone new comes into the house. Is there a safe way to help shy cats become more social and confident around people? (Submitted by Emily from Portland, OR)

Related Links:
The Incredible Dr. Pol: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/tv/shows/the-incredible-dr-pol

Dr. Pol Clinical Nutrition: https://thedrpol.com/dr-pol-launches-non-prescription-clinical-nutrition-dog-food-line-available-exclusively-at-walmart/

Dr. Pol at Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/brand/drpol/10026293

Ziggy the Corgi: https://www.instagram.com/ziggy_thecorgi

Little Stumps Racing: https://littlestumpsracing.com

Little Stumps Racing (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/littlestumpsracing

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

118. Insect Protein, Cat Evolution & The Future of Pet Wellness

In this fascinating episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the future of pet nutrition, the science of evolution, and innovative approaches to preventative pet health. From sustainable insect-based proteins to feline evolution and longevity medicine, this episode highlights how science and technology continue shaping the future of pet care.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares the story of a former software engineer who helped transform his dog’s health through insect-based nutrition, leading to the creation of a new pet food ingredient company focused on buffalo mealworm protein as a sustainable and highly palatable dietary supplement.

Chris explores the growing challenge facing the pet food industry: balancing environmentally sustainable ingredients with increasing consumer demand for premium, human-grade pet nutrition.

Special Guests:
Dr. Jonathan Losos, Evolutionary Biologist & Author of The Cat’s Meow

Dr. Henry Yoo, Veterinarian & Executive Consultant, Infinity Medical Consulting

Pet Product Recommendations:
Oneisall Smart Automatic Feeder for Two Cats – https://oneisall.com

Barkly Retractable Dog Leash with Personal Safety Alarm – https://mybarkly.com/

Q&A Topics:
My dog seems incredibly smart and learns words quickly. How do scientists actually measure canine intelligence? (Submitted by Mark from Columbus, OH)

My son recently got a betta fish. What size tank and type of environment does a betta fish really need to stay healthy and happy? (Submitted by Laura from San Diego, CA)

Related Links:
The Cat’s Meow by Dr. Jonathan Losos: https://global.oup.com

Planet Paws: https://www.planetpawsmedia.com

Infinity Medical Consulting: https://www.infinitymedicalconsulting.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

117. AI Pet Recovery, Cancer Prevention & The Science of Longevity

In this fascinating episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore cutting-edge innovations in pet health, longevity, and recovery technology. From AI-powered lost pet reunification systems to breakthrough research on cancer prevention and aging, this episode delivers practical insight into how science and technology are helping pets live longer, healthier lives.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares how AI-powered image recognition is helping reunite lost pets with their families through Petco Love Lost, a growing database that analyzes hundreds of visual data points to match missing pets with shelter and neighborhood sightings.

Chris highlights a fascinating look into the lives of ultra-wealthy dog owners, exploring luxury grooming, longevity therapies, premium nutrition, and the growing trend of treating pets as full-fledged family members.

Special Guests:
Rodney Habib, Pet Health Educator, Author & Founder of Planet Paws

Dr. Kevin Toman, Veterinarian & Longevity Medicine Specialist

Pet Product Recommendations:
Lootpaw GPS & Behavioral Tracker – https://www.lootpawpets.com/

Petco Love Lost AI Pet Recovery Service – https://petcolove.org/lost

Q&A Topics:
I recently adopted a shy young cat who hides when visitors come over. What are safe and gentle ways to help her become more comfortable socializing? (Submitted by Melissa from Portland, OR)

We lost our last dog to cancer and just adopted a new puppy. Are there things we can do early in life to reduce the risk of cancer? (Submitted by Daniel from Tampa, FL)

Related Links:
Planet Paws: https://planetpaws.ca/

Dr. Karen Becker: https://healthypets.mercola.com

Helping Pets Live Longer: https://helpingpetslivelonger.com

Petco Love Lost: https://petcolove.org/lost

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

116. Pet Food Transparency, Puzzle Toys & The Future of Smart Pet Care

In this engaging episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, recorded live from Global Pet Expo, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the growing demand for transparency in pet nutrition, the importance of mental enrichment for pets, and how technology is reshaping modern pet care. From FDA labeling updates to smart feeders and interactive puzzle toys, this episode highlights the exciting evolution of the pet industry and the people driving it forward.

Story Time features:
Chris shares emerging FDA efforts to improve transparency and labeling standards in pet food, as more pet parents demand clearer ingredient information, stronger nutritional claims, and science-backed product messaging.

Kristen reflects on the inspiring work of Brother Wolf Animal Rescue following Hurricane Helene, encouraging pet lovers to consider fostering animals through local shelters and rescue organizations to help save more lives.

Special Guests:
Nina Ottosson, Dog Trainer & Creator of Interactive Puzzle Toys

Roundtable Guests:
Anna Marie Mossa, Co-Founder, LootPaw

Alexander Figueroa, Co-Founder, Lootpaw

Pet Product Recommendations:
Catstages Infinity Ball Track & Puzzle Feeders 

LootPaw GPS & Behavioral Tracker – https://www.lootpawpets.com/

Q&A Topics:
There are so many different types of cat litter — clay, crystal, natural — how do I choose the best one for my cat and my home? (Submitted by David from Atlanta, GA)

My dog gets bored and destructive at home — how much mental stimulation do dogs really need, and what are easy ways to provide it? (Submitted by Brian from Seattle, WA)

Related Links:
Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Puzzle Toys: https://outwardhound.com

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

Lootpaw Smart Pet Ecosystem: https://www.lootpawpets.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

115. Dog “Safaris,” Loneliness & The Future of Pet Innovation

In this dynamic episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, recorded live from Global Pet Expo, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore new ways to enrich our pets’ lives, the growing impact of loneliness on human health, and the future of innovation in the pet industry. With expert voices from veterinary medicine and startup innovation, this episode blends science, storytelling, and practical advice for modern pet parents.

Story Time features:
Chris shares a fascinating new concept from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute — turning routine dog walks into “safaris,” where the focus shifts from distance to sensory enrichment, helping both pets and owners break routine and improve mental well-being.

Kristen highlights research showing that loneliness is a growing public health issue, especially among older adults, and that human-animal interaction can significantly reduce isolation and improve both mental and physical health outcomes.

Special Guests:
Peter Carlos, Veterinary Technician & Social Media Educator

Dustin McAdams, CEO, PupJoy & Entrepreneur in Residence, Active Capital

Jay DeLong, Partner, Active Capital

Brian Lester, Senior Director of Strategic Planning, Nestlé Purina

Pet Product Recommendations:
Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Puzzle Toys – https://outwardhound.com

NaturVet All-In-One 4-in-1 Daily Multivitamin Soft Chews  

Q&A Topics:
There are so many opinions about dog diets — kibble, raw, fresh — how do I know what’s actually best for my dog? (Submitted by Melissa from Austin, TX)

My cat suddenly stopped using the litter box — what are the most common causes and how should I handle it? (Submitted by Jessica from Phoenix, AZ)

Related Links:
Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI): https://www.habri.org

Pet Care Innovation Network: https://www.petcareinnovation.net

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) & DOGTVv

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