Pets Add Life

petsaddlife
  • 5.0 (4)
  • 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. 1d ago

    121. Pet Industry Growth, Global Trade Shows & Protecting Pet Choice

    In this informative episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the continued growth of the pet industry, the value pets bring to our lives, and the policies and trade events shaping the future of pet ownership. From APPA’s latest industry data to global pet trends and responsible pet advocacy, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the forces driving the pet world forward. Story Time features: Chris shares highlights from APPA’s latest State of the Industry Report, revealing that U.S. pet industry spending reached approximately $158 billion in 2025 and is projected to continue growing as pet ownership expands across generations. Kristen discusses new research from the University of Kent suggesting that the positive impact pets have on human well-being may be worth the equivalent of tens of thousands of dollars annually in life satisfaction and emotional benefits. Special Guests: Sandy Moore, CEO, Pet Advocacy Network Rowena Arzt, Head of Exhibitions, Interzoo Pet Product Recommendations: Delectables Cat Treats & Toppers – https://www.hartz.com/our-brands/delectables Pet-Ag Dynovite Supplements – https://www.petag.com Q&A Topics: My dog is friendly with people but not great with other dogs. Is it too late to socialize an adult dog, and how should I approach it? (Submitted by Amanda from Miami, FL) I’m new to owning fish. What are the most important things people often get wrong when setting up and maintaining a home aquarium? (Submitted by Daniel from Tampa, FL) Related Links: Pet Advocacy Network: https://petadvocacy.org Interzoo: https://www.interzoo.com American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org Global Pet Expo: https://globalpetexpo.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. Jun 9

    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 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

    48 min

  3. Jun 2

    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

    48 min

  4. May 26

    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

    48 min

  5. May 19

    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

    48 min

  6. May 12

    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

    48 min

  7. May 5

    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

    48 min

  8. Apr 28

    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

    48 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 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 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Pets Add Life