Pets Add Life

67. Service Dogs, Disability Advocacy & Adopt-a-Cat Month

In this powerful and heartwarming episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati celebrate the start of Pet Anxiety Awareness Month and Adopt-a-Cat Month with two inspiring stories. First, Jamie Simpson, founder of New Life Working Dogs and Embrace Everyday, shares her journey living with epilepsy and training her own life-saving service dog, Echo. Then, Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society, joins the show to discuss the No-Kill 2025 movement, how to get involved in your community, and the latest collaboration with DOGTV’s The Adoption Show.

Special Guests:

• Jamie Simpson, Founder of New Life Working Dogs & Embrace Everyday

• Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Frisco Scratching Ball & Triangle Post (via Chewy): https://www.chewy.com/frisco-scratching-ball-triangle-post/dp/9000003321

• Doggy Hush Noise-Canceling Dog Earmuffs: https://www.doggyhush.com

Q&A Topics:

• “Is it safe for my indoor cat to explore the backyard?” (Submitted by Emily from Portland, OR)

• “My dog gets anxious from construction next door. What can I do to help?” (Submitted by Michael from Long Island, NY)

Related Links:

• Embrace Everyday: https://embraceeveryday.com

• Embracing Echo on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/embracing.echo

• Best Friends Animal Society: https://bestfriends.org

• Best Friends Lifesaving Dashboard: https://bestfriends.org/no-kill-2025/animal-shelter-statistics

• DOGTV’s The Adoption Show (Unleashed Channel): https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

• Pet Anxiety Awareness Month: https://www.petliving.com/anxiety

• Pet Anxiety Special Episode of The Experts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DOGTV

Social Channels:

• Follow Jamie Simpson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/embracing.echo

• Follow Best Friends on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestfriendsanimalsociety

• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram: https://instagram.com/petsaddlife

• Facebook: https://facebook.com/PetsAddLife

• YouTube: https://youtube.com/petsaddlife

• TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@petsaddlife

• X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/petsaddlife

Subscribe & Listen:
New episodes every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

Submit Your Questions to the Podcast:
https://petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by:
American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV

66: Canine Cognition and Healing After Pet Loss

In this episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati explore the incredible ways dogs think and feel, starting with Dr. Brian Hare, renowned Duke professor and founder of the Duke Canine Cognition Center. Then, they speak with certified grief counselor Beth Bigler about coping with the emotional journey of pet loss and how to find healing through remembrance. From the science of canine intelligence to tools for grief support, this episode is packed with heartfelt insights and helpful advice for every pet parent.

Special Guests:

• Dr. Brian Hare, Professor of Evolutionary Anthropology, Psychology, and Neuroscience at Duke University; Co-founder, Duke Canine Cognition Center; Author of The Genius of Dogs, Survival of the Friendliest, and Puppy Kindergarten
  
  
• Beth Bigler, Certified Pet Loss Grief Counselor; Founder of Honoring Our Animals; Author of Honoring Our Animals: 365 Meditations for Healing After Pet Loss
  
  

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Wolfie’s Wish Pet Loss Grief Cards and Support Decks: https://wolfieswish.com
  
  
• Outward Hound Orbee-Tuff Puzzle Feeder: https://outwardhound.com
  
  

Q&A Topics:

• “My dog keeps scratching and licking his paws. Could it be allergies?” (Submitted by Samantha from Chicago, IL)
  
  
• “My cat is drinking more water than usual and urinating frequently. Could this be a sign of a health issue?” (Submitted by James from Chicago, IL)
  
  

Related Links:

• Brian Hare Official Website: https://www.brianhare.net
  
  
• Duke Canine Cognition Center: https://evolutionaryanthropology.duke.edu/research/dogs
  
  
• The Genius of Dogs Book: https://www.amazon.com/Genius-Dogs-Smarter-Think/dp/0142180467
  
  
• Survival of the Friendliest Book: https://www.amazon.com/Survival-Friendliest-Understanding-Origins-Rediscovering/dp/0399590668
  
  
• Honoring Our Animals Website: https://honoringouranimals.com
  
  
• Honoring Our Animals Book: https://a.co/d/dkejWIp
  
  
• Scarlett Johansson & Ocean the Pitbull (via The Dodo): https://www.thedodo.com
  
  
• Association for Pet Obesity Prevention: https://petobesityprevention.org
  
  
• Body Condition Score Chart: https://petobesityprevention.org/pet-weight-check
  
  

Social Channels:

• Follow Honoring Our Animals on Instagram: https://instagram.com/honoringouranimals
  
  
• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram: https://instagram.com/petsaddlife
  
  
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/PetsAddLife
  
  
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/petsaddlife
  
  
• TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@petsaddlife
  
  
• X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/petsaddlife
  
  

Subscribe & Listen:
New episodes every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

Submit Your Questions to the Podcast:
https://petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by:
American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV

65. Fighting Pet Cancer, Saving Shelter Pets & Smart Toothbrushes for Dogs

This week on the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati tackle two powerful topics: pet cancer awareness and national animal shelter strategies. Dr. Victoria Carmella of the Animal Cancer Foundation joins the show to discuss her groundbreaking work in comparative oncology, pet nutrition, and preventive health. Then, Christa Chadwick, Vice President of Shelter Services at the ASPCA, sheds light on their nationwide relocation efforts, shelter medicine outreach, and kitten nurseries that are transforming outcomes for thousands of pets each year.

Plus, Chris and Kristen share updates on parasite prevention trends and the incredible story of a kangaroo loose on an Alabama highway—and yes, it’s 100% real.

Special Guests:

• Christa Chadwick, CAWA, Vice President of Shelter Services, ASPCA
  
  
• Dr. Victoria Carmella, Veterinarian and Board Member, Animal Cancer Foundation
  
  

Pet Product Recommendations:

• BiteBlock Finger Toothbrush System by Paw Ready: https://pawready.com/products/biteblock-dog-toothbrush
  
  
• Earth Rated Pet Grooming Wipes: https://www.earthrated.com/products/pet-grooming-wipes/
  
  

Q&A Topics:

• “Why does my dog eat grass? Is it something I should be concerned about?” (Submitted by Emily from Denver, CO)
  
  
• “How often should I bathe my dog to keep their coat healthy without overdoing it?” (Submitted by Samantha from Hoboken, NJ)
  
  
• Bonus Voicemail: “How to reduce separation anxiety in my young Queensland Heeler?” (Voicemail submitted by Shelly from Oregon)
  
  

Related Links:

• ASPCA: https://www.aspca.org
  
  
• ASPCA Pro (for shelter professionals): https://www.aspcapro.org
  
  
• Animal Cancer Foundation: https://www.acfoundation.org
  
  
• Canine Cancer Genome Project: https://www.acfoundation.org/what-we-do/comparative-oncology/genome-project/
  
  
• Rescue Effect Campaign by ASPCA: https://www.aspca.org/rescueeffect
  
  

Social Channels:

• Follow ASPCA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aspca
  
  
• Follow Animal Cancer Foundation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/animalcancerfoundation
  
  
• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife
  
  
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife
  
  
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife
  
  
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife
  
  
• X (formerly Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/petsaddlife
  
  

Subscribe & Listen:
New episodes every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

Submit Your Questions to the Podcast:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by:
American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV

 

64. Celebrity Spotlight – Amber Marshall from "Heartland" at Global Pet Expo!

Special guest co-host Dr. Courtney Campbell joins Kristen Levine for an unforgettable episode featuring actress and animal advocate Amber Marshall, star of the hit CBC series "Heartland." Recorded live from the Global Pet Expo in Orlando, Florida, Amber shares her inspiring journey from veterinary assistant to beloved television star, blending her passions for acting and animals.

Amber Marshall's authentic portrayal of Amy Fleming on "Heartland" isn't just acting—it's a reflection of her real life on her Alberta ranch, caring for horses, dogs, cats, and more. In this special conversation, Amber reveals the personal impact animals have had on her life and career, her advocacy work with the Canadian Animal Assistance Team, and the exciting launch of her partnership with innovative pet brand Killarney Pet Crates.

Join us as Amber discusses:

• Her lifelong passion for animals and how they've shaped her professional and personal growth.
  
  
• The magical behind-the-scenes moments from two decades of filming "Heartland."
  
  
• Her grandmother’s inspiring journey into horsemanship at age 80.
  
  
• How animals help keep the set of "Heartland" calm and authentic.
  
  
• The launch of her stylish and practical pet crate collaboration with Killarney Pet Crates.
  
  

Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation, packed with inspiration, animal advocacy, and insights into the unique connection between people and pets.

Links & Resources from this Episode:

• Amber Marshall Official Instagram:
  https://www.instagram.com/amber_marshall_farm/
  
  
• Killarney Pet Crates (coming soon!):
  https://www.killarneycrates.com (Website launching soon, follow Amber’s Instagram for updates!)
  
  
• Canadian Animal Assistance Team (CAAT):
  https://www.caat-canada.org
  
  
• "Heartland" Official Website:
  https://www.cbc.ca/heartland
  
  

Stay Connected with Pets Add Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife

🎙 Subscribe & Listen:
New episodes every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!

Submit Your Questions for the Show:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

63. Celebrating Dog Moms & Pet Care Innovations

In this special Mother's Day edition of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati celebrate the joy of pet parenthood and explore the cutting edge of pet care innovation. From startup trends and veterinary accessibility to heartwarming dog mom moments, this episode offers expert insights and practical advice for pet lovers everywhere. Tune in as we hear from Rachel Sheppard of Leap Venture Studio and Chrissy Joy & Amber Aquart from DOGTV’s hit show The Dog Moms.

Special Guests:

• Rachel Sheppard, Director of Ventures at Mars Petcare & Leap Venture Studio
  
  

• Chrissy Joy & Amber Aquart, Hosts of The Dog Moms on DOGTV
  
  

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Dog Off-It Furniture Protection: https://dogoffit.com
  
  

• Fussie Cat Premium Market Fresh (Tuna-Forward Cat Food): https://fussiecat.com
  
  

Q&A Topics:

• “As a new dog owner, I'm curious about the best ways to keep my home clean and odor-free, especially with shedding and the occasional mess. Any tips?” (Submitted by Sarah from Lexington, KY)
• “I've noticed my dog occasionally eats grass during our walks. Is this normal behavior, and should I be concerned? ” (Submitted by Emily from Denver, CO)

 

Related Links:

• Leap Venture Studio: https://www.leapventurestudio.com
  
  

• DOGTV’s The Dog Moms: https://www.dogtv.com/thedogmoms
  
  

• AAHA Vaccine Guidelines: https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/vaccination-canine-configuration/vaccination-recommendations-for-general-practice-table/
  
  

• AKC 2024 Most Popular Dog Breeds: https://www.akc.org/most-popular-breeds
  
  

Social Channels:

• Follow Rachel Sheppard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelsheppardmba/
  
  

• Follow Chrissy Joy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechrissyjoy
  
  

• Follow Amber Aquart on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberaquart
  
  

• Follow Whiskey Toller on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskeytoller
  
  

• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife
  
  

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife
  
  

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife
  
  

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife
  
  

• X (formerly Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/petsaddlife
  
  

Subscribe & Listen:
New episodes every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

Submit Your Questions to the Podcast:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by:
American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV

62. From Fitness to Philosophy — Pet Innovation, Global Adventures & Smart Vet Tech

This week on Pets Add Life, Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati are back with another epic episode featuring stories that stretch across the globe — from lost cats and curious seals to tech-powered vet clinics and cutting-edge enrichment gear.

Storytime Highlights:

• A California cat named Aggie miraculously survives wildfires and reunites with her family after months apart.
  
  
• A New Haven seal named Chappy captures local hearts before passing due to plastic ingestion and intestinal torsion.
  
  

Guest 1: Jamie Popper (Founder of Proper Pets) Certified canine fitness trainer and inventor of the Propel Air platform, Jamie shares:

• Her horseback safari in Botswana
  
  
• The development of canine fitness tools that strengthen the bond between dogs and humans
  
  
• Training products designed for both beginners and experts
  
  

 Learn more about Jamie:

• Instagram (Proper Pets): https://www.instagram.com/proper.pets
  
  
• Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/popper.jamie
  
  
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiepopper
  
  

Featured Product: Propel Air Platform
Proper Pets’ inflatable training platform for canine balance and stability.
Official Website: https://properpets.com

Guest 2: Dr. Aaron Massecar (VP of Partnerships at Kova)
From philosopher to vet-tech visionary, Dr. Massecar discusses:

• His transition from academia to animal health
  
  
• The future of AI-assisted veterinary care through Kova (medical scribing & co-pilot tools)
  
  
• Innovations that save vets time while enhancing patient care
  
  
• Emotional reflections on saying goodbye to his 16-year-old dog, Charley
  
  

Connect with Dr. Massecar:

• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-massecar/
• Kova Website: https://www.withkova.com
  
  

Products of the Week:

1. Comprehensive Cat Gut Health Check
   From Innovative Pet Lab — a diagnostic kit to test your cat’s digestive function and recommend vet-backed solutions.
   💻 Website: https://www.innovativepetlab.com
   
   
2. Chewtastic Geometrics by Pet Dreamhouse
   Rubber enrichment toys co-designed with an aerospace scientist for erratic bouncing and treat-stuffing.
   💻 Product Link: https://www.petdreamhouse.co.uk/products/chewtastic-geometrics
   
   

 Audience Q&A:

• Alex from Austin, TX – How to turn your dog into a social media star
  
  
• Taylor from Seattle, WA – Tips for smoothly introducing a 4th cat to your feline crew
  
  

Want Your Question Answered on the Show?
Submit yours at: https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Follow Pets Add Life for More Pet Content:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife
  
  
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife
  
  
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife
  
  
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife
  
  

New Episodes Every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube
Presented by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV.

61. Pet CPR Essentials, Understanding Dog Behavior & Caring for Aging Pets

Join Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati for an insightful episode of Pets Add Life as they explore essential pet CPR, decoding dog behavior, and caring for aging pets. Packed with expert advice, this episode will equip you to keep your furry friends safe, happy, and comfortable throughout their lives.

Guests:

Dr. Patricia McConnell – Understanding Canine Behavior & Communication World-renowned animal behaviorist and bestselling author, Dr. Patricia McConnell shares valuable insights into dog behavior, aggression myths, effective training methods, and interspecies communication. With over 25 years of experience teaching zoology and animal behavior at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dr. McConnell offers indispensable tips for creating stronger, healthier relationships with your pets.

Topics Covered with Dr. McConnell:

• Early influences shaping her interest in animal behavior
• Common misconceptions about canine aggression and effective solutions
• Positive reinforcement and evolving dog training methodologies
• The importance of clear, consistent communication with dogs

Follow Dr. Patricia McConnell: Official Website: https://www.patriciamcconnell.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciamcconnellphd Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PatriciaMcConnellPhD

Dr. Mary Gardner – Enhancing Quality of Life for Senior Pets Co-founder of Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice, Dr. Mary Gardner specializes in senior pet care, focusing on mobility issues, cognitive dysfunction, and ways to improve the quality of life for aging dogs and cats. Her compassionate approach helps pet parents create comfortable environments for their senior companions.

Topics Covered with Dr. Gardner:

• Signs and management of mobility and cognitive issues in senior pets
• Practical tips to enhance comfort and quality of life for aging pets
• Importance of recognizing early signs of aging and addressing them promptly

Follow Dr. Mary Gardner & Lap of Love: Official Website: https://www.lapoflove.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lapofloveveterinaryhospice Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lapoflove

Products of the Week:

• Room Happy Habitat Exercise Ball for Small Pets Innovative, secure hamster and gerbil exercise ball with patented locking system and advanced ventilation for safe playtime. Available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Room-Happy-Habitat-Exercise-Hamsters/dp/B0BXY1WVCM
• Washable Reusable Gel Lint Roller Eco-friendly lint roller perfect for easily removing pet hair from furniture and clothing. Available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Washable-Reusable-Lint-Roller/dp/B09FDYJ7PK

Audience Questions: From Alex in Houston, TX: “My dog has consistently bad breath, should I be worried? Could it indicate a serious health issue?”

From Jordan in Edwards, CO: “My dog shows aggression when guarding certain objects. What could cause this and how do I manage or correct this behavior?”

Links & Resources: Pet CPR Certification & Resources: Pet First Aid & CPR Training (Pet First Aid 4U): https://www.petfirstaid4u.com

Pet Behavior & Training Resources: Patricia McConnell Training Tips & Books: https://www.patriciamcconnell.com/books

Senior Pet Care Information: Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice Services: https://www.lapoflove.com

Follow Pets Add Life: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife

Subscribe & Listen: New episodes every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!

Submit Your Questions for the Show: https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

60. LIVE from Global Pet Expo: Cat Dads, Raw Pet Food, and Pawsome Innovations!

Description: Join hosts Chris and Kristen for a very special episode of Pets Add Life, broadcasting live from Global Pet Expo! First up, social media sensation Nathan Kehn, better known as Nathan the Cat Lady, shares how he combined his passion for acting and animal advocacy, becoming a trendsetting cat dad along the way. Nathan also discusses his impactful rescue work and shares insights into the growing popularity of cats, especially among cat dads. Later, Brian McDonald, Director of E-commerce at Oma’s Pride, dives deep into the world of raw pet nutrition, debunking common misconceptions, explaining its benefits, and revealing how Oma's Pride grew rapidly through innovative marketing and engaging brand storytelling. Plus, discover the latest innovative products showcased at Global Pet Expo, including AI-integrated litter boxes and modular puzzle toys designed for pet enrichment.

Products Featured:

• Puzzlr: Modular puzzle enrichment toys for dogs. https://puzzlr.com

• Whisker Litter-Robot: AI-integrated litter box monitoring pet health. https://www.litter-robot.com

• Oma’s Pride: Premium raw pet food available in various package sizes. https://omaspride.com

• Cat Lady Robes by Nathan the Cat Lady: Robes designed specifically for cat enthusiasts. https://catladyrobes.com

Guests and Social Media Links:

Nathan Kehn (Nathan the Cat Lady)

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanthecatlady

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nathanthecatlady

• Website: https://catladyrobes.com

Brian McDonald (Oma’s Pride)

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omaspridepetfood

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/omaspridepetfood

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@omaspride

• Website: https://omaspride.com

Podcast Links:

• Pets Add Life Podcast: https://petsaddlife.org/podcast

Tune in and subscribe to explore more trends, products, and stories that celebrate the incredible bond between humans and animals!