Pets Add Life

73. Dogs with Super Noses, Pet Industry Insights & Sailing Cats

 

In this globe-trotting and data-packed episode of Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati bring you stories of science, inspiration, and adventure. First up: Roy Ben-Tzvi, founder of The Wolf newsletter, shares his journey from startup founder to pet industry analyst and dives into trends like smart collars, pet supplements, and what makes pet businesses succeed. Then, children’s author and former biologist Stephanie Gibeault teaches us how dogs experience the world—and why butt sniffing is more polite than it seems. Plus, meet a cat who sailed the Pacific, and learn why dogs can smell your stress (and possibly your math anxiety).

Special Guests:

• Roy Ben-Tzvi – Founder of The Woof newsletter on pet business & investment
  Website: https://www.woofnews.co/
  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-woofnews/ 
• Stephanie Gibeault – Science Writer & Children’s Author of Dogs vs. Humans
  Website: https://www.stephaniegibeault.com
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephanie_gibeault
  
  

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Meowijuana's Meow-Jane Scent Enrichment Kit for Cats (13 herbal scents): https://www.meowijuanashop.com/products/meow-jane-scent-enrichment-kit
  
  
• PILL PALS Deodorant-Style Treat Paste for Dogs (makes pill-giving easy): https://www.chewy.com/pill-pals-dog-pill-hiding-treat/dp/899999
  
  

Q&A Topics:

• Sarah from Phoenix, AZ: “Is my dog overweight? What signs should I look for?”
  
  
• Mark from Denver, CO: “How can I tell if a trainer truly uses positive reinforcement?”
  
  

Related Links:

• The Woof Newsletter (Pet Industry & Investment):https://www.woofnews.co/
• Stephanie’s Book: Dogs vs. Humans (Available on Amazon or local bookstores)
  
  
• Association for Pet Obesity Prevention: https://petobesityprevention.org
  
  
• ASPCA Safe Herb List for Cats: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants
  
  
• The Dog Who Saved the Bees (Preorder): https://www.stephaniegibeault.com/dog-who-saved-the-bees
  
  
• Research: Dogs Detect Stress via Scent (NBC): https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/dogs-smell-stress-science-says-rcna50138
  
  

Social Media & Submissions:

• Pets Add Life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife
  
  
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife
  
  
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife
  
  
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife
  
  
• Submit a Question: https://petsaddlife.org/podcast
  
  

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife
  
  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pets-add-life
  
  
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0f6yDwFz1ndmkt4cFzWVPY
  
  
• Or stream it on DOGTV’s FAST channel, DOGTV Unleashed: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed
  
  

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

72. The Cone of Shame, Pet Pros & Pets with Paws

In this dynamic episode of Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati spotlight trailblazers in veterinary care and the pet business world. First up is beloved veterinarian Dr. Andy Roark, creator of the “Cone of Shame” podcast and founder of the Uncharted Veterinary Conference. Dr. Roark discusses how humor, empathy, and education fuel his mission to support vets and pet parents alike. Then, Nancy Hassel, founder of American Pet Professionals and host of “Digging Into the Pet Industry,” shares tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, networking insights, and why now is a golden age for the pet biz. Plus, we learn how to tell if your dog is left- or right-pawed, discuss pet allergies, and offer practical pet dental advice from Dr. Roark himself.

Special Guests:

• Dr. Andy Roark – Veterinarian, Speaker, Creator of Cone of Shame, Founder of Uncharted Veterinary Conference
  Website: https://drandyroark.com
  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drandyroark
  Podcast: https://drandyroark.com/cone-of-shame-podcast

• Nancy Hassel – Founder of American Pet Professionals, Host of Digging Into the Pet Industry
  Website: https://americanpetprofessionals.com
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyhassel
  Podcast: https://americanpetprofessionals.com/podcast

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Wigzi Dual Doggie Retractable Leash (tangle-free walking for two dogs): https://www.wigzi.com/collections/leashes/products/dual-doggie

• Catit Creamy Ice Pop Silicone Tray (make summer treats for cats): https://www.catit.com/shop/product/catit-ice-pop-silicone-mold/

Q&A Topics:

• David from Seattle: Tips for helping a pet safely lose weight without just cutting food

• Sarah from Denver: How to prevent dental disease in pets if brushing isn’t realistic

Related Links:

• VCA Article on Allergies in Dogs: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/allergies-in-dogs

• Learn About Left- or Right-Pawed Pets: https://www.sidewalkdog.com/is-your-dog-left-or-right-pawed

• Dr. Andy Roark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drandyroark

• American Pet Professionals on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanpetpros

Social Media & Submissions:

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

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

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

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

• Submit a Question: https://petsaddlife.org/podcast

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

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

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pets-add-life

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0f6yDwFz1ndmkt4cFzWVPY

• Or stream it on DOGTV’s FAST channel, DOGTV Unleashed: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

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

71. Guardian Dogs, Animal Intuition & Fourth of July Pet Safety

In this heartfelt and insightful episode of Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati explore the healing power of animal companionship. First, U.S. Marine veteran and author Karl Riemensperger shares the inspiration behind his beloved “Gunner Goes” children’s book series—based on the real-life adventures of his rescued Labrador, Gunner. Then, pet psychic and animal communicator Danielle MacKinnon joins the show to explain how we can all learn to communicate with animals and deepen the soul-level bond with our pets.

Special Guests:

• Karl Riemensperger, Author of Gunner Goes Series

• Danielle MacKinnon, Animal Communicator & Pet Psychic

Pet Product Recommendations:

• K&H Pet Cooling Water Bowl (keeps water cold for 15+ hours): https://www.khpet.com/products/k-h-coolin-pet-bowl

• Woof Bite-N-Brush Dental Chew Toy: https://www.woof.com/products/bite-n-brush

Q&A Topics:

• “What’s a subtle sign that two cats are actually getting along?” (George from Oklahoma City, OK)

• “I just adopted a horse—what’s the best daily care routine?” (Evan from Lexington, KY)

Related Links:

• Gunner Goes book series & plush: https://www.gunnergoesseries.com

• Gunner Goes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gunnergoes

• Florida Retriever Rescue: https://www.flretrieverrescue.org

• Danielle MacKinnon's Website: https://www.daniellemackinnon.com

• Danielle MacKinnon's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@daniellemackinnon

• K&H Cooling Bowl Product Page: https://www.khpet.com/products/k-h-coolin-pet-bowl

• Woof Pet Products: https://www.woof.com

Social Media & Submissions:

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

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

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

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

• Submit a Question: https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

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

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pets-add-life

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0f6yDwFz1ndmkt4cFzWVPY

• Or stream it on DOGTV’s FAST channel, DOGTV Unleashed: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

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

70. Training Superdogs, Pet Parties & the Happy Cat Hotel

This week on Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati close out Pet Anxiety Awareness Month and ring in the summer with high-energy guests, expert training tips, and a big dose of fun. First, dog trick trainer and America’s Got Talent finalist Sara Carson of The Super Collies shares how she went from outcast teen to international performer and founder of the Pupper App. Then, Gary George, event promoter and co-founder of Barcshella, dishes on launching the first music festival just for dogs and their humans.

Special Guests:

• Sara Carson, Dog Trainer, Performer & Founder of The Super Collies & Pupper App

• Gary George, Event Promoter & Co-founder of Barcshella

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Petmate Crates (for safe zones & travel): https://www.petmate.com

• Inaba Churu Treats & Toppers: https://www.inabafoods.com/collections/churu-puree-for-cats

Q&A Topics:

• “My 9-year-old daughter wants a bunny for her birthday. What should we consider?” (Submitted by Angela from Portland, OR)

• “My German Shepherd has been really gassy lately. How do I fix this?” (Submitted by Danielle from Chicago, IL)

Related Links:

• Sara Carson’s Training App: https://pupper.com

• The Super Collies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesupercollies

• Petmate Crates: https://www.petmate.com

• Inaba Churu Cat Treats: https://www.inabafoods.com/collections/churu-puree-for-cats

• Barkshella Event Details:  https://www.barkchella.com/

• The Happy Cat Hotel & Spa: https://www.happycathotelandspa.com

• DOGTV’s Unleashed Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

• Watch The Experts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DOGTV

Social Channels:

• Follow The Super Collies on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesupercollies

• Follow Barcshella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barkchellanj/https://www.instagram.com/barcshella

• 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

69. Behavior Breakthroughs: Tackling Dog Anxiety with Dr. Lisa Radosta & Alex Sessa

This week on the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati dig into dog anxiety and behavior with two powerhouse guests. First, board-certified veterinary behaviorist Dr. Lisa Radosta shares her insights from over two decades of clinical experience. She explains how a pet’s environment, education, and positive support can transform even the most fearful animals. Then, dog trainer and founder of Peach on a Leash, Alex Sessa, reveals her top techniques for building great habits early—and correcting behaviors like jumping and barking with kindness, not force.

Special Guests:

• Dr. Lisa Radosta, Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist & Founder of Florida Veterinary Behavior Service
  
  
• Alex Sessa, Dog Trainer & Founder of Peach on a Leash Dog Training
  
  

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Reconcile (FDA-approved medication for separation anxiety): https://www.reconcile.com
  
  
• Dr. Buzby’s ToeGrips (for senior dog traction support): https://toegrips.com
  
  

Q&A Topics:

• “My dog becomes extremely anxious during thunderstorms. How can I calm him down?” (Submitted by Michelle from Austin, TX)
  
  
• “My puppy gets overly excited when greeting guests. How do I teach calmer greetings?” (Submitted by Jason from Charlotte, NC)
  
  

Related Links:

• Florida Veterinary Behavior Service: https://flvetbehavior.com
  
  
• Dr. Lisa Radosta’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DrLisaRadosta
  
  
• Peach on a Leash Dog Training: https://peachonaleash.com
  
  
• Reconcile Medication Overview: https://www.reconcile.com
  
  
• Dr. Buzby’s ToeGrips for Senior Dogs: https://toegrips.com
  
  
• The Experts: Dog Anxiety Episode (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@DOGTV
  
  
• Watch The Experts on DOGTV’s Unleashed Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed
  
  
• Pet Anxiety Awareness Month Resources: https://www.petliving.com/anxiety
  
  

Social Channels:

• Follow Dr. Lisa Radosta on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlisaradosta
  
  
• Follow Peach on a Leash on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peachonaleash
  
  
• 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

 

68. The Science of Dog Anxiety: Expert Advice from Victoria Stilwell & Dr. Nicholas Dodman

This week on Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati dive deep into canine anxiety with two of the most respected experts in animal behavior. First, world-renowned dog trainer Victoria Stilwell discusses the power of positive reinforcement, signs of stress in dogs, and how to help rescue pets adjust to their new homes. Then, pioneering veterinary behaviorist Dr. Nicholas Dodman shares breakthrough insights into the causes of anxiety, natural treatments, and what science says about helping dogs feel safe and calm.

Special Guests:

• Victoria Stilwell, Dog Trainer, Author & Founder of the Victoria Stilwell Academy

• Dr. Nicholas Dodman, Professor Emeritus at Tufts University & President of the Center for Canine Behavior Studies

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Sherpa Airline-Approved Soft Pet Carrier: https://www.amazon.com/Sherpa-Travel-Original-Approved-Carrier/dp/B0006G54OU

• Nationwide Pet Insurance: https://www.bestpetinsuranceever.com

Q&A Topics:

• “My Border Collie has started chasing his tail and licking obsessively when I’m away. Is this anxiety?” (Submitted by Mark from Seattle, WA)

• “My rescue dog gets extremely anxious when I leave. How do I use desensitization and counterconditioning?” (Submitted by Rachel from Portland, OR)

Related Links:

• Victoria Stilwell Academy: https://www.vsdogtrainingacademy.com

• Positively by Victoria Stilwell (Courses & Resources): https://www.positively.com

• Center for Canine Behavior Studies: https://dogstudies.org

• The Experts on DOGTV’s Unleashed Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

• The Experts (YouTube Playlist): https://www.youtube.com/@DOGTV

• Best Pet Insurance (Nationwide): https://www.bestpetinsuranceever.com

• Sherpa Carriers (Official Site): https://www.sherpapet.com

Social Channels:

• Follow Victoria Stilwell on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoriastilwell

• Follow DOGTV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dogtv

• 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

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