Pets Add Life

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

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