Pets Add Life

petsaddlife

Welcome to the Pets Add Life Podcast dedicated to pet parents and enthusiasts looking to learn more about the world of pets and pet ownership! Each week, your hosts, Certified Cat Dad Chris Bonifati and Pet Living Expert Kristen Levine, explore the many ways Pets Add Life – diving into the latest trends in pet care, sharing heartwarming stories of animal companionship, and more – with special guests that include pet industry experts and passionate pet owners. Each episode features two pet stories, two special guests, two product recommendations and two questions from the audience. Tune in to the Pets Add Life Podcast on Tuesdays for new episodes! Presented by: American Pet Products Association & DOGTV

  1. 2 DGN GELEDEN

    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

    48 min.
  2. 24 MRT

    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

    48 min.
  3. 17 MRT

    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

    48 min.
  4. 10 MRT

    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

    48 min.
  5. 3 MRT

    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

    48 min.
  6. 24 FEB

    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

    48 min.
  7. 17 FEB

    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

    48 min.
  8. 10 FEB

    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

    48 min.

Info

Welcome to the Pets Add Life Podcast dedicated to pet parents and enthusiasts looking to learn more about the world of pets and pet ownership! Each week, your hosts, Certified Cat Dad Chris Bonifati and Pet Living Expert Kristen Levine, explore the many ways Pets Add Life – diving into the latest trends in pet care, sharing heartwarming stories of animal companionship, and more – with special guests that include pet industry experts and passionate pet owners. Each episode features two pet stories, two special guests, two product recommendations and two questions from the audience. Tune in to the Pets Add Life Podcast on Tuesdays for new episodes! Presented by: American Pet Products Association & DOGTV

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