Pets Add Life

petsaddlife
  • 5.0 (3)
  • PETS & ANIMALS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. 6D AGO

    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

    48 min

  2. 12/23/2025

    96. A Very Merry Pets Add Life Christmas with Magnolia, Mimi’s Organic Eats & Holiday Pet Joy

    In this special Christmas Eve episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine celebrate the season with heartfelt stories, festive laughs, and inspiring guests who embody the true spirit of giving. From holiday pet mishaps to baking meaningful treats and honoring beloved pets, this episode is all about love, joy, and the powerful bond we share with animals. Story Time features: Kristen shares a collection of funny and unforgettable holiday pet stories, including dogs sneaking treats off the Christmas tree, garland mishaps, and a festive reminder about why tinsel and pets should never mix. Chris highlights a Gen Z pet parent survey showing that 90% of young adults see pets as one of the most important parts of their lives, with many viewing pet ownership as preparation for future family responsibilities — proving that pets truly are family. Special Guests: Mimi Council, Founder of Mimi’s Organic Eats Magnolia Harter, Founder of Crosby’s Crunchies & Star of Magnolia Bakes a Difference Pet Product Recommendations: Three Dog Bakery Dog Cake & Cupcake Mix – https://www.threedogbakery.com Knots of Fun Cat Fleece Wand Toy –https://www.happyhandshappydogs.com/product/small-cat-toy/?srsltid=AfmBOookilNCeb6YU27RsKauZ72RpABqnmwekSl1YXxIkULj9CYRUDBF Q&A Topics: Do pets actually recognize what they see on TV, or are they reacting to movement and sound? (Submitted by Lily from Phoenix, AZ) Can pets sense when we’re sick or not feeling well before we realize it ourselves? (Submitted by Jordan from Minneapolis, MN) Related Links: Mimi’s Organic Eats: https://mimisorganiceats.com Animal Cancer Foundation - https://www.animalcancerfoundation.org   Magnolia Bakes a Difference (Documentary): Gofundme 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. 12/16/2025

    95. The Science of the Human–Animal Bond with Dr. Patricia McConnell & HABI’s Lindsay Braun

    In this heartwarming and thought-provoking holiday episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore what truly connects humans and animals. From the emotional language of dogs to groundbreaking research on the human–animal bond, this episode dives deep into the love, trust, and science behind our relationship with pets. Story Time features: Chris shares findings from a new study showing that children who grow up around dogs — but not necessarily cats — may develop stronger immunity to pet allergies. Researchers found that early exposure to dogs helps build resistance to certain allergens, while cats do not have the same effect. Kristen highlights a new industry survey revealing what pet parents really want from their veterinarians — better communication, collaboration, and more time during appointments. The study also shows how veterinary medicine is evolving to meet the expectations of proactive, informed pet owners who see pets as family. Special Guests: Dr. Patricia McConnell, Animal Behaviorist, Author & Professor Emeritus, University of Wisconsin–Madison Lindsay Braun, Vice President of Research & Operations, Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) Pet Product Recommendations: PetSmart Pre-Stuffed Cat Stocking (24 Toys) – https://www.petsmart.com   Holiday Cat Tunnel (Tree Skirt Style) – https://amzn.to/3LoEHbV Q&A Topics: Do fish recognize their owners or respond to human interaction? (Submitted by Noah from Tampa, FL) Is there real science behind the idea that pets make people healthier and happier? (Submitted by Eli from Boston, MA) Related Links: Dr. Patricia McConnell Official Site: https://www.patriciamcconnell.com HABRI (Human Animal Bond Research Institute): https://www.habri.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. 12/09/2025

    94. The True Cost of Pet Parenthood, Enrichment for Every Pet & Natural Healing

    In this insightful December episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine discuss the realities of pet parenthood, the science of enrichment, and natural veterinary care. From budgeting for a new puppy to learning how 15 minutes of focused attention can transform your pet’s well-being, this episode is full of practical wisdom for pet lovers everywhere. Story Time features: Kristen shares insights from Rover’s 2025 report on The True Cost of Dog Parenthood, revealing that the lifetime cost of owning a dog can range from $16,000 to $52,000. She reminds listeners to plan ahead before surprising loved ones with a puppy this holiday season and to consider fostering or volunteering as an alternative. Chris takes a lighter approach with a story from Thailand, where pets compete in fun events like “cat eating contests” and photo competitions — all part of a growing $1.8 billion pet industry that celebrates joy, creativity, and laughter. Special Guests: Alex Johnson, Senior Designer & Pet Enrichment Specialist, Nestlé Purina PetCare Dr. Andrew Jones, Veterinarian, Author & Founder of Veterinary Secrets Pet Product Recommendations: Bergan Rolling Pet Carrier by Coastal Pet Products – https://www.coastalpet.com Merry & Bright Holiday Pet Collection (PetSmart) – https://www.petsmart.com Q&A Topics: Why do some dogs seem to recognize their owner’s car or footsteps from far away? (Submitted by Devin from Tampa, FL) Why do cats stare at walls or “see” invisible things — are they detecting something we can’t? (Submitted by Owen from Portland, OR) Related Links: Purina “Happy” Program (My Purina App): https://www.purina.com Veterinary Secrets (Dr. Andrew Jones): https://www.youtube.com/@VeterinarySecrets 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. 12/02/2025

    93. Super Pet Expo & Training for a Better Dog-Human Bond

    In this fun and informative episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine chat about inspiring pet stories, exciting upcoming events, and expert dog training advice. From fostering kittens to improving communication with your canine, this episode explores the joy of connection between pets and their people. Story Time features: Chris shares a New York story about Abdul Rahim, a man who has fostered hundreds of kittens since the pandemic—revealing the around-the-clock dedication it takes to bottle-feed, nurture, and raise young kittens in need. Kristen discusses the growing rise of “pet prenups” as more couples plan ahead for their furry family members. She explains how new laws are recognizing pets as companions rather than property and how joint pet custody agreements are becoming common across the U.S. Special Guests: Eric Udler, Founder & President of Super Pet Expo Michael Hill, Owner & Lead Trainer, Michael Hill Dog Training Pet Product Recommendations: Himalayan Dog Chew Advent Calendar – https://amzn.to/3X0EBcV Ruffwear Sun Shower Dog Raincoat – https://a.co/d/05dkfqS Q&A Topics: My dog listens perfectly at home but ignores me at the park—how can I train him to focus with distractions? (Submitted by Ben from Austin, TX) My cat keeps meowing loudly at night even though she’s fed and healthy—what could be causing this, and how can I help her settle down? (Submitted by Melissa from Chicago, IL) Related Links: Super Pet Expo: https://www.superpetexpo.com Michael Hill Dog Training: https://www.michaelhilldogtraining.com DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.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

    48 min

  6. 11/25/2025

    92. Thanksgiving Special: Gratitude, Pet Safety & Animal Communication

    In this festive Thanksgiving episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine share gratitude, laughter, and expert advice for keeping pets happy and safe during the holidays. From falling acorns to falling iguanas, and mindful connection to mindful eating, this episode celebrates the joy pets bring into our lives every day. Story Time: Chris warns pet parents about the recent rise in dogs swallowing acorns—posing serious health risks and even requiring surgery in some cases. Kristen shares the heartwarming story of Emmy the Labrador, who visits her neighbor every day to ring a special nose-level doorbell for a treat, reminding us how much dogs love routine, friendship, and community. Special Guests: Michael Burke, Author of Intuitive Animal Communication: Co-Create a Meaningful Life and Deep Connection with Animals Dr. Mark Freeman, Clinical Associate Professor of Community Practice at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine Pet Product Recommendations: Nite Ize NightHowl LED Safety Necklace – https://amzn.to/43xKhyF ChomChom Roller Pet Hair Remover – https://a.co/d/eTuX5S9 Q&A Topics: Thanksgiving food safety tips for dogs and how to prevent overfeeding during the holidays (Submitted by Anna from Nashville, TN) How to keep pets calm and comfortable when hosting large gatherings (Submitted by Grace from Charlotte, NC) Related Links: Michael Burke Official Site: https://michaelrburke.com/ Intuitive Animal Communication (Book): https://michaelrburke.com/intuitive-animal-communication-book/ Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine: https://vetmed.vt.edu Holiday Hazards Guide (Virginia Tech): https://news.vt.edu/articles/2024/12/vetmed-pet-holiday-safety.html 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. 11/18/2025

    91. Pet Loss, Healing Hearts & Building Stronger Bonds with Dogs

    In this heartfelt episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the emotional side of pet ownership—from coping with loss to deepening our connection with the dogs we love. Together, they share moving stories, expert advice, and practical tools to strengthen the human-animal bond. Story Time features: Kristen shares a quirky seasonal story about Florida’s “falling iguanas” phenomenon and how cold weather can cause reptiles to literally drop from trees—reminding pet owners to stay alert during chilly southern nights. Chris recounts a headline-grabbing story from the London Pet Show Live, where the event collapsed due to fraud and mismanagement—offering a behind-the-scenes reminder that successful pet expos like Global Pet Expo take immense dedication and expertise. Special Guests: Renee Talbott Author of Unleash Your Grief: The Truth About Pet Loss Maggie Marton, Author of For the Love of Dog: The Ultimate Relationship Guide for You and Your Dog Pet Product Recommendations: Pride + Groom “The Mane Tame” Dry Shampoo for Dogs – https://prideandgroom.com/products/the-mitt-kit Wowowo Dog Backpack Carrier – https://amzn.to/3WOrift Q&A Topics: How to litter train a newly adopted shelter cat and understand feline behavior (Submitted by Carlos from Austin, TX) How to register a dog as a service animal and determine if they’re a good candidate (Submitted by Janelle from Columbus, OH) Related Links: Unleash Your Grief: https://www.unleashyourgrief.com For the Love of Dog: https://www.maggiemarton.com Neighborhood Pets: https://www.neighborhoodpetscle.org K9s for Warriors: https://www.k9sforwarriors.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. 11/11/2025

    90. Veterans, Service Dogs & Pets That Heal

    In this powerful Veterans Day edition of the Pets Add Life Podcast, host Chris Bonifati is joined by guest co-host Tori Mistick for an inspiring conversation on service, healing, and the human-animal bond. Together they explore how pets bring comfort to veterans, how community programs keep pets in loving homes, and how new tools are saving lives. Story Time features: Tori shares a moving story about her Labrador, Lucy, volunteering at the Southwestern Veterans Center in Pittsburgh and discovering that simple acts of presence can be the purest form of service. Chris highlights Love Lost, an AI-driven app created by Petco Love to reunite lost pets with their owners through image matching and community alerts. Special Guests: Becca Britton, Founder & Executive Director, Neighborhood Pets Outreach and Resource Center Wyatt Haines, Chief Canine & Business Officer, K9s for Warriors Pet Product Recommendations: Oxbow Apple Twig Tree (for rabbits, guinea pigs & chinchillas) – https://oxbowanimalhealth.com/product/enriched-life-apple-twig-tree/ Pup O’Clock Family Subscription Box (for kids & dogs) – https://pupoclock.com Q&A Topics: My senior dog was recently diagnosed with cancer – how can I extend his life and keep his quality of life high? (Submitted by Elena from San Diego, CA) I just adopted a rabbit – what are the basics for housing, diet, and social interaction? (Submitted by Megan from Portland, OR) Special Offer: DOGTV is offering 2 hours of free calming content for dogs this holiday season — no sign-up required. Visit https://watch.dogtv.com and search for “Paws & Relax.” Related Links: Neighborhood Pets: https://www.neighborhoodpetscle.org K9s for Warriors: https://www.k9sforwarriors.org Petco Love Lost App: https://lost.petcolove.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
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

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

Information

  • Creator
    petsaddlife
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    99
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Pets Add Life