Pets Add Life

In this episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore how changes in the family routine can affect our pets—and what we can do to make the transition easier. From helping dogs adjust when kids return to school to understanding enrichment and emotional well-being, the episode is packed with practical advice for happier pets. The hosts also take a closer look at the veterinary profession, including burnout, career flexibility, and how pet parents can better support the people who care for their animals.

Story Time features:
Chris shares an important warning from the Better Business Bureau about scammers targeting people searching for lost pets. He discusses ways pet parents can protect themselves, including microchipping pets, withholding identifying details that can be used to verify a legitimate finder, and never sending money without confirming that someone actually has the missing animal.

Kristen shares the heartwarming story of Enzo, a 160-pound deaf and blind Mastiff who visits Carmel Elementary School in Maine as a therapy dog. Students read to Enzo during library time, creating a supportive, judgment-free environment that can help young readers feel more comfortable and confident.

Special Guests:
Emily Strong, Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Co-Owner of Pet Harmony & Co-Author of Canine Enrichment for the Real World

Dr. Ashley Hopkins, Veterinarian, Founder & CEO of Hopper Vets & Career Coach with Vet Candy

Pet Product Recommendations:
KONG Wobbler – https://www.kongcompany.com/wobbler/

Dog Splash Pad – https://www.petco.com

Q&A Topics:
My kids are heading back to school soon, and I’m worried because our dog got so used to having everyone home all summer. What can we do now to help prevent separation anxiety before the school year starts? (Submitted by Jennifer from Charlotte, NC)

We recently adopted a puppy, but our resident cat isn’t exactly thrilled with the new addition. What are some of the best ways to help cats and dogs learn to live together peacefully and safely? (Submitted by David from Portland, OR)

Related Links:
Pet Harmony: https://petharmonytraining.com

Emily Strong: https://petharmonytraining.com/emily-strong/

Canine Enrichment for the Real World: https://petharmonytraining.com/resources/pet-harmony-resources/

Hopper Vets: https://hoppervets.com

Vet Candy: https://www.myvetcandy.com

Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker: https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker

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:
Pet Harmony (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petharmonytraining

Pet Harmony (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/petharmonytraining

Hopper Vets (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/hoppervets

Vet Candy (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/myvetcandy

DOGTV (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/dogtv

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

In this fascinating episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore smarter, healthier ways to care for pets while taking a deeper look at how animals think, communicate, and connect. From expanding access to affordable spay and neuter services to discovering the extraordinary ways dogs experience the world, this episode combines practical animal welfare solutions with fascinating insights into animal intelligence and behavior.

Story Time features:
Chris shares a story about the continued animal rescue and recovery efforts following devastating earthquakes, highlighting veterinarians, volunteers, and search-and-rescue dogs working to locate, treat, and reunite animals with their families.

Kristen introduces Dobby, an unusual black rescue kitten whose rare genetic traits include four ear flaps, a curled tail, and an underbite. After his story went viral, the once difficult-to-place kitten became an adoption sensation.

Special Guests:
Brianna Lovell Myers, Executive Director, United Spay Alliance

Jennifer S. Holland, Science & Nature Writer, Former National Geographic Senior Staff Writer & New York Times Bestselling Author of Unlikely Friendships and Dog Smart

Pet Product Recommendations:
Suitical Recovery Suit for Dogs – https://www.suitical.com/products/recovery-suit-dog

TiCK MiTT – https://tickmitt.com

Q&A Topics:
My dog follows me everywhere—even into the bathroom—and always wants to be in the same room. Is that simply affection, or can being overly attached be a sign of anxiety? (Submitted by Jessica from Austin, TX)

Why does my cat suddenly get a burst of energy at night and start racing around the house? Why do cats get the “zoomies,” and should owners do anything to help them burn off that energy? (Submitted by Michael from Chicago, IL)

Related Links:
United Spay Alliance: https://www.unitedspayalliance.org

United Spay Alliance Spay/Neuter Referral Directory: https://www.unitedspayalliance.org/state-local/program-locator-map/

United Spay Alliance Online Conference: https://www.unitedspayalliance.org/online-conference/

Jennifer S. Holland Official Website: https://www.jenniferhollandwriter.com

Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence: https://www.jenniferhollandwriter.com/dog-smart

Unlikely Friendships: https://www.jenniferhollandwriter.com/unlikely-friendships

Kitty Cat Haven & Rescue: https://kittykathavenrescue.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:
United Spay Alliance (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/unitedspayalliance

United Spay Alliance (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/UnitedSpayAlliance

Jennifer S. Holland (Facebook – Unlikely Friendships): https://www.facebook.com/UnlikelyFriendships

DOGTV (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/dogtv

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

 

In this informative episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore smarter approaches to pet nutrition, weight management, training, and everyday care. From a proposed New Jersey tax credit for pet expenses and an important summer tick warning to expert guidance on healthy feeding and stress-free grooming, this episode offers practical ways to support pets’ physical and emotional well-being.

Story Time features:
Kristen discusses a proposed New Jersey tax credit that would allow eligible pet owners to claim up to $300 for everyday pet expenses and up to $600 for qualifying veterinary costs.

Chris shares an important summer reminder that flea and tick preventatives do not eliminate every risk. He explains why pet parents should continue performing careful tick checks, including between their pets’ toes, after outdoor activities.

Special Guests:
Dr. Megan Sprinkle, Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionist & Head of Veterinary Affairs, Golden Child

Dr. Deb Jones, Dog Trainer, Psychologist, Author & Cooperative Care Educator

Pet Product Recommendations:
EzyDog Crosscheck Harness –

Digital Pet Food Measuring Scoop Scale – https://www.amazon.com/Measuring-Electronic-Removable-Weighing-Suitable/dp/B0DM97CY7W

Q&A Topics:
I’ve watched countless training videos online, but my dog still doesn’t respond consistently. How can owners tell whether their home training is effective, and what common mistakes might they be making? (Submitted by Mark from Columbus, OH)

My cat becomes stressed by even minor changes, including visitors, rearranged furniture, and groceries entering the home. Why are some cats so sensitive to change, and how can owners help them feel more secure? (Submitted by Jennifer from Seattle, WA)

Related Links:
Golden Child: https://mygoldenchild.com

Dr. Megan Sprinkle (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/sprinklemc

Dr. Deb Jones – K9 in Focus: https://k9infocus.com

Cooperative Care Certificate: https://cooperativecarecertificate.com

Fenzi Dog Sports Academy: https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com

Cooperative Care: Seven Steps to Stress-Free Husbandry: https://www.amazon.com/Cooperative-Care-Seven-Stress-Free-Husbandry/dp/0578423138

New Jersey Assembly Bill A4995: https://pub.njleg.state.nj.us/Bills/2026/A5000/4995_I1.HTM

Association of American Feed Control Officials: https://www.aafco.org

National Animal Supplement Council: https://www.nasc.cc

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:
Dr. Megan Sprinkle (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/sprinklemc

Dr. Deb Jones – Cooperative Care with Deb Jones (YouTube): 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLdrsXsstUUTcTdWS21pZVA

Golden Child (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/mygoldenchild

DOGTV (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/dogtv

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

In this special International Cat Day episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine celebrate everything cats. They explore feline health, behavior, enrichment, and home design with two of the world's leading cat experts while sharing practical tips to help cats live healthier, happier lives.

Story Time features:
Chris shares practical ways to help indoor cats stay cool during hot summer weather, including hydration tips, cooling mats, wet food, and creating a more comfortable indoor environment.

Kristen discusses new research from the University of Liverpool showing why regular veterinary checkups for middle-aged and senior cats are essential, highlighting the importance of early detection of dental disease, joint problems, and heart conditions.

Special Guests:
Dr. Mikel Delgado, Certified Cat Behavior Consultant, Researcher & Co-Author of Total Cat Mojo

Kate Benjamin, Founder of Housepanther, Cat Design Expert & Co-Author of Catification and Catify to Satisfy

Pet Product Recommendations:
Petlibro Dockstream Cordless Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain
https://petlibro.com/collections/dockstream

K&H Pet Products Coolin' Pet Pad
https://khpet.com

Q&A Topics:
How can you tell the difference between a cat that's simply relaxed versus one that's bored or lacking mental stimulation? (Submitted by Emily from Minneapolis, MN)

Why does a cat continue scratching furniture even when scratching posts are available, and how can owners encourage better scratching habits? (Submitted by Melissa from San Diego, CA)

Related Links:
DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com

Housepanther: https://www.housepanther.com

Dr. Mikel Delgado: https://whatyourcatwants.com

Total Cat Mojo: on Amazon

Catification: 

On Amazon

Catify to Satisfy: 

On Amazon

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Dr. Mikel Delgado (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/mikel.delgado/?hl=en

Kate Benjamin (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/hauspanther/

Hauspanther (Website): https://www.housepanther.com

DOGTV (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/dogtv

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

In this episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the powerful ways pets help create friendships, strengthen communities, and improve our lives. From the surprising social impact of dog parks to a brand-new DOGTV game show and a bestselling novel inspired by canine companionship, this episode celebrates the unique bond between pets and people.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares the story of Arizona's Desert Mountain Club, where an unexpected amenity—the community dog park—has become the club's greatest social gathering place, bringing neighbors together more effectively than golf courses, restaurants, or fitness facilities.

Chris shares a simple homemade frozen popsicle recipe for dogs using bananas, blackberries, peanut butter, yogurt, and a Milk-Bone treat as the popsicle stick—a fun and healthy way to help dogs stay cool during the summer.

Special Guests:
Harrison Forbes, Pet Expert, Animal Advocate & Host of DOGTV's So You Think You Know Pets?

Camille Perri, Bestselling Author of Social Animals

Pet Product Recommendations:
Pet Adobe Elevated Cooling Dog Bed

Wander Dog Splash-Free Travel Water Bowl 

Q&A Topics:
What are the best snake species for first-time reptile owners, and what common mistakes should beginners avoid? (Submitted by Olivia from Phoenix, AZ)

What are the most important things every new aquarium owner should know to keep fish healthy and maintain a thriving tank ecosystem? (Submitted by Ethan from Tampa, FL)

Related Links:
DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com

So You Think You Know Pets?: https://www.dogtv.com

Camille Perri: https://www.camilleperri.com

Social Animals (Penguin Random House): https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/814444/social-animals-by-camille-perri/

Daily Paws (Homemade Dog Popsicles): https://www.dailypaws.com

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Harrison Forbes (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/harrisonforbes

Camille Perri (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/camilleperri

DOGTV (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/dogtv

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

 

In this special National Adoption Week episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine celebrate the incredible progress being made in animal welfare while sharing inspiring stories from the front lines of pet adoption and rescue. From lifesaving transport flights and shelter innovations to practical advice for first-time adopters, this episode is dedicated to helping more pets find loving homes and helping families find the perfect companion.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares encouraging new shelter data showing that the national shelter save rate has reached 82.5%, while cat save rates have climbed to an all-time high of 82.9%. She also explains what it means for a shelter to achieve "no-kill" status and highlights the growing momentum behind lifesaving efforts across the country.

Chris shares the story of 135 research beagles that successfully found forever homes through the efforts of the Beagle Freedom Project, demonstrating how collaboration between research organizations and animal advocates can create positive outcomes for animals.

Special Guests:
Cassie Davidson, Vice President of Marketing, Communications & PR, Humane Society of North Texas, and Vice President of Marketing, Wings of Rescue

April Huntsman, Senior Director of Adoption Experience, Adopt a Pet

Pet Product Recommendations:
Bissell Little Green Portable Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner – https://www.bissell.com/little-green-portable-carpet-cleaner-3369.html

Oxbow Enriched Life Play Table for Small Pets – https://oxbowanimalhealth.com/product/enriched-life-play-table/

Q&A Topics:
What are the most important factors families should consider before adopting their first dog to ensure it's the right fit for their lifestyle? (Submitted by Amanda from Phoenix, AZ)

Are adult shelter cats harder to adjust to than kittens, and how can new owners help adopted cats feel safe and comfortable in their new home? (Submitted by Brian from Boston, MA)

Related Links:
Humane Society of North Texas: https://www.hsnt.org

Wings of Rescue: https://www.wingsofrescue.org

Adopt a Pet: https://www.adoptapet.com

Beagle Freedom Project: https://bfp.org

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

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Humane Society of North Texas (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/humanesocietyntx

Wings of Rescue (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/wingsofrescue

Adopt a Pet (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/adoptapet

DOGTV (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/dogtv

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

 

In this heartfelt episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the incredible organizations and products helping pets and their people live healthier, safer lives. From supporting the pets of people experiencing homelessness to preparing for emergencies and managing multi-pet households, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories that celebrate the human-animal bond.

Story Time features:
Chris shares the creative ways New York City dog owners are transporting their pets on public transit, inspiring a look at innovative dog carrier solutions for urban pet parents and outdoor adventurers.

Kristen reflects on the remarkable work of Pets of the Homeless and the many different faces of homelessness, emphasizing the importance of supporting both vulnerable people and the pets they depend on for companionship and hope.

Special Guests:
Genevieve Frederick, Founder & President, Pets of the Homeless

Pet Product Recommendations:
K9 Sport Sack Dog Carrier Backpacks – https://www.k9sportsack.com

ARCA Pet Dog & Cat First Aid Kit – https://arcapetlove.com/pet-first-aid-kit-basic-care

Q&A Topics:
My 10-year-old Labrador was recently diagnosed with cancer. How can pet owners evaluate treatment options while making sure their dog maintains the best possible quality of life? (Submitted by Michelle from Tampa, FL)

Our two cats tolerate each other most of the time, but they still have frequent hissing matches and occasional fights. What can we do to help them coexist more peacefully? (Submitted by Jennifer from Denver, CO)

Related Links:
Pets of the Homeless: https://petsofthehomeless.org

Find Donation Sites & Volunteer Opportunities: https://petsofthehomeless.org/get-help

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Pets of the Homeless (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/PetsOfTheHomeless

Pets of the Homeless (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petsofthehomeless

DOGTV (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/dogtv

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

 

In this special Fourth of July episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine share practical tips to help dogs and cats stay safe during fireworks while exploring the science behind canine behavior and the unique needs of giant breed dogs. Featuring two experts in animal behavior and pet wellness, this episode is packed with advice to help pet parents better understand, protect, and care for their furry family members.

Story Time features:
Chris shares essential Fourth of July safety tips for cat owners, including why microchipping, updated ID tags, keeping cats indoors, and maintaining recent photos are critical during one of the busiest times of year for lost pets.

Kristen discusses how to prepare dogs for fireworks by providing exercise, enrichment activities, a quiet safe space, calming background audio, and—when appropriate—working with a veterinarian on anxiety management strategies.

Special Guests:
Kim Brophey, Applied Ethologist, Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Founder of Family Dog Mediation & Author of Meet Your Dog

Sarah McLean, Co-Founder, Big Damn Dog Company & Winner of the 2025 Pet Innovation Lab Competition

Pet Product Recommendations:
Atomic Bubbles Puppy Love Calming Bubbles & Kitty Love Calming Bubbles – https://atomicbubbles.com

Pet Honesty Dual Texture Calming Chews – https://www.pethonesty.com

Q&A Topics:
With so many GPS trackers, health monitors, and smart pet devices on the market, which pet technologies genuinely improve a dog's quality of life—especially for senior pets? (Submitted by Rachel from Austin, TX)

With so many supplements available for pets, how can owners tell which products are truly beneficial and which are mostly marketing hype? (Submitted by Michael from Denver, CO)

Related Links:
Family Dog Mediation: https://www.familydogmediation.com

Big Damn Dog Company: https://thebigdamndogco.com/

Pet Anxiety Awareness Month: https://www.petanxietyawareness.com

National Animal Supplement Council (NASC): https://www.nasc.cc

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Kim Brophey (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/familydogmediation

Big Damn Dog Company (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/bigdamndogco

DOGTV (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/dogtv

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