Pets Add Life

53. Dog Influencers, Social Media Trends & Holistic Cat Care

In this special birthday episode of Pets Add Life, Kristen and Chris celebrate with insightful conversations about dog-friendly social media, canine enrichment, and holistic feline care with two incredible guests.

First, we welcome Tori Mistick, the creator of Wear Wag Repeat, an award-winning blog and podcast dedicated to dog lovers and pet business owners. As a certified canine enrichment specialist, Tori shares science-backed activities to help dogs thrive and discusses social media trends shaping the pet industry. Whether you're a pet business owner, an aspiring pet influencer, or just looking for fun activities for your dog, Tori has expert insights to share.

Then, we chat with Layla Morgan Wilde, a holistic cat behaviorist, author, and founder of Cat Wisdom 101. Layla has spent decades advocating for feline welfare and educating pet parents on enrichment, holistic pet care, and the deep bond between humans and cats. She also created Black Cat Awareness Month, working to reshape perceptions and increase adoption rates for black cats. In this episode, Layla offers practical advice on feline behavior, enrichment strategies, and how to make life better for your indoor cat.

Pet Product Recommendations:

Grounds & Hounds Coffee – A mission-driven coffee company that donates 20% of proceeds to animal rescues. Try their popular Snow Day Blend for a warm winter treat.
Shop Here: https://groundsandhoundscoffee.com

Catit Self-Grooming Wall Brush – A budget-friendly $5 cat grooming tool that attaches to walls, letting cats scratch and groom themselves effortlessly.
Shop Here: https://www.catit.com/shop/self-groomer-with-catnip

Audience Q&A:

Jake from Austin, TX: "My dog, Buddy, is super friendly with humans but shy around other dogs. How can I help him socialize without overwhelming him?"

Sarah from Denver, CO: "I keep hearing about canine enrichment. What are some easy, everyday ways I can keep my dog mentally stimulated?"

Emily from Portland, OR: "My dog, Charlie, is bored with his usual toys. I’ve tried rotating them, but he’s not interested anymore. Any fun, original games or DIY activities to keep things exciting?"

Related Links & Resources:

Wear Wag Repeat – Dog Blog & Pet Business Resources
Visit Here: https://wearwagrepeat.com

Wear Wag Repeat Podcast – Interviews for Dog Lovers & Pet Entrepreneurs
Listen Here: https://wearwagrepeat.com/podcast

Cat Wisdom 101 – Feline Enrichment & Holistic Behavior Tips
Visit Here: https://catwisdom101.com

Black Cat Awareness Month – Advocacy & Adoption Support
Learn More: https://catwisdom101.com/black-cat-awareness-month

Follow Pets Add Life & Our Guests:

Follow Tori Mistick & Wear Wag Repeat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearwagrepeat
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearwagrepeat
Website: https://wearwagrepeat.com

Follow Layla Morgan Wilde & Cat Wisdom 101
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catwisdom101
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CatWisdom101
Website: https://catwisdom101.com

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

Subscribe & Listen to New Episodes Every Tuesday!
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Presented by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV.

 

52. Westminster Dogs & Vet Expo Insights

A winter-themed episode featuring playful elephants, top veterinarians at Westminster, and pet behavior tips from Chewy’s expert!

Join hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati as they bring you an episode packed with snowy fun, exciting pet industry updates, and invaluable pet wellness tips. This week, we share an adorable story of elephants experiencing snow, discuss the latest in pet supplements, and take you behind the scenes at two major pet industry events: Westminster Dog Show and VMX Veterinary Expo.

Stories of the Week:

Elephants Play in the Snow! – The Houston Zoo experienced rare snowfall, and the elephants had a blast! (Watch the video here: https://www.nbc.com/houston-elephants-snow)

The Rise of Pet Supplements – More pet parents are turning to supplements to prevent costly vet bills. We break down why this trend is booming and how the right supplements can benefit your pet.

Exclusive Interviews from Westminster Dog Show

Chris Reports from Westminster – Chris visits the 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and interviews two top veterinarians:

• Dr. Jai Diggs, the first-ever resident vet of Westminster Kennel Club
• Dr. Callie Harris, Senior Vet Communications Manager at Purina

Topics Covered:

• What a Westminster vet does behind the scenes
• How pet parents can improve their dog’s nutrition for longevity
• The importance of mentorship in the veterinary field
• Avian Flu concerns: What pet parents need to know

Watch the Westminster segment: https://www.westminsterkennelclub.org

Inside VMX: The World’s Largest Vet Expo

Kristen at VMX – Kristen attends VMX Veterinary Expo in Florida, where she interviews Dr Tiffany Tupler from Chewy about pet behavior and telehealth.

Topics Covered:

• How Chewy’s Connect with a Vet offers FREE pet health guidance
• The biggest mistakes pet parents make with anxious pets
• How to recognize early signs of fear and anxiety in dogs
• How behavior training can strengthen the human-animal bond

Connect with a Vet for FREE on Chewy: https://www.chewy.com/connect-with-a-vet

Products of the Week:

My Petite Puppy Dog Chair – A luxurious wheeled chair that lets your small dog sit next to you anywhere! Perfect for work-from-home pet parents. $299 at My Petite Puppy: https://www.mypetitepuppy.com

WinPet Outdoor Cat Enclosure – A pre-built catio that brings the outdoors in for your cat without DIY hassle! $399 at WinPet: https://www.winpet.com/catio

Audience Questions:

Megan from Seattle: “What’s the funniest or most unexpected thing your pets have ever done?”
Kristen’s Answer: Her tiny dog Tulip once chased a mama bear with cubs—thankfully, everyone was safe!
Chris’s Answer: He tried putting his cat Tiger on a leash for an outdoor adventure, but she just turned around and walked back inside.

Submit Your Question for Next Week: https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Follow Our Guests & Resources:

Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show – https://www.westminsterkennelclub.org
Chewy’s Connect with a Vet – https://www.chewy.com/connect-with-a-vet
VMX Veterinary Expo – https://navc.com/vmx

Follow Pets Add Life & Stay Connected:

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! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

51. Picture-Perfect Pets & Valentine's Day Treats

A cozy winter episode with expert pet photographer Darlene Woodward and Wufers’ Skylar Crook!

As Valentine's Day approaches, we’re bringing love and creativity to the pet world! Join hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati as they dive into the world of winter pet photography and gourmet dog treats in this heartwarming episode.

Guests:

Darlene Woodward – Capturing Pets in the Magic of Winter

Renowned pet photographer and positive dog trainer Darlene Woodward shares her inspiring journey from training her rescued Husky, Kota, to becoming a sought-after pet photographer. Specializing in stunning winter portraits, Darlene offers expert photography tips and advice for making every shot special—even with reactive pets.

Topics Covered with Darlene:

• How her dog Kota inspired her career shift from flight attendant to pet photographer.
• The beauty of winter photography and how snow creates a magical backdrop.
• Tips for pet parents who want to take professional-looking pet photos at home.
• How to photograph reactive or anxious pets without stress.
• The importance of capturing memories with our pets before it's too late.

Follow Darlene’s work at:
Pant The Town Photography "pant the town photography

Skylar Crook – Gourmet Dog Treats for Special Occasions

Skylar Crook, Director of Marketing at Wufers, joins us to discuss the art of dog treats! Wufers specializes in hand-decorated, human-grade treats that make every celebration memorable. From birthdays to Valentine's Day, Skylar shares how these beautiful cookies bring joy to both dogs and their humans.

Topics Covered with Skylar:

• How Wufers started and what makes their treats special.
• The importance of high-quality, human-grade ingredients in dog treats.
• How Wufers creates beautiful, bakery-style cookies that are as fun for pet parents as they are for dogs.
• The rising trend of celebrating special occasions with pets.
• Wufers' Valentine’s Day treat box—perfect for spoiling your pup this February.

Find Wufers treats at:
Wufers Official Website
Wufers on Amazon

Products of the Week:

Oral Health Test for Dogs

Washable Reusable Gel Lint Roller

Skylar’s Pick: Wufers Valentine’s Day Dog Cookie Box
Treat your pup to a hand-decorated, gourmet cookie box this Valentine’s Day! Featuring adorable heart-shaped designs and made with locally sourced ingredients, this treat box makes for paw-some Instagram-worthy moments.
Get it on Wufers: Wufers Valentine’s Box

Audience Questions:

From Sarah in Austin, TX:
"If there’s an emergency, how do I know whether I should rush my pet to a clinic or if it can wait? I often worry about overreacting or, worse, not acting quickly enough."

 From Michael in Portland, OR:
"My dog seems to have constant ear trouble—shaking his head and scratching. Could it be an infection? What’s the best way to handle this, and how can I prevent it in the future?"

From Lisa in Denver, CO:
"Are there any supplements I should be giving my pet, like vitamins or joint support? How do I know which ones are actually beneficial?"

 

Links & Resources:

Dog Adoption Success Program (for new pet parents!):
https://www.doglifetraining.com/adoption-success-program

📍 Urban Coyotes & Evolutionary Research:
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/coyote-genes-may-show-urban-evolution-at-work

📍 The Puppy Bowl – Adoption Awareness Event:
https://www.discovery.com/shows/puppy-bowl

📍 Follow Our Guests:

• Darlene Woodward Photography:
  https://www.instagram.com/paintthetownphotography/
• Wufers Dog Treats (Official Website):
  https://www.wufers.com/
• Wufers Dog Treats (Amazon Store):
  https://www.amazon.com/Wufers

•  

Follow Us & Stay Connected:

Follow Pets Add Life on Social Media:

• 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

 

50. Inside the Westminster Dog Show & Revolutionizing Veterinary Care

In this episode of the Pets Add Life podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati bring you an in-depth look at two of the most exciting developments in the pet world.

First, Dr. Don Sturz, President of the Westminster Kennel Club, joins the show to give an exclusive preview of the 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, happening this week. As one of the most prestigious dog shows in the world returns to New York City, Dr. Sturz shares:

• What makes this year's Westminster Dog Show special and why its return to Madison Square Garden is significant
• The behind-the-scenes process of running an event of this scale
• How Westminster champions philanthropy and animal welfare, including their work with the Purple Leash Initiative
• His personal journey in the dog show world and how his love for dogs has shaped his life

Next, Dr. Emily Hubbard, Chief Medical Officer at Veterinary Innovative Partners (VIP), discusses her work in transforming veterinary care. VIP is a growing network of nearly 70 veterinarian-owned-and-operated hospitals across 12 states. Dr. Hubbard explains:

• The biggest challenges facing veterinarians today and how VIP is tackling them
• Why mental health and work-life balance are crucial for veterinarians and how that benefits pets and their owners
• VIP’s approach to mentorship, training, and hospital expansion to improve veterinary care
• How pet owners can support their veterinarians and build better relationships with them

This episode is packed with insights for pet owners, dog lovers, and anyone interested in the future of veterinary medicine.

 

Products of the Week

• Hertzko Self-Cleaning Pet Brush
  • Ideal for dogs and cats
  • Retractable bristles make cleaning easy
  • Reduces shedding and keeps pet coats healthy
• TropiClean Fresh Breath Oral Care Gel for Cats
  • Natural formula that fights plaque and tartar buildup
  • Simple gel application for easy use
  • Helps maintain fresh breath and better oral health for cats

Listener Questions

• Jenna from Portland, Oregon
  "I'm thinking about getting a bunny as a pet for the first time. What are some key things I should know before bringing one home, and how can I create a safe and happy environment for them?"
• Mark from Austin, Texas
  "My dog Max is constantly scratching and biting at his skin. It seems like he is super itchy all the time. What could be causing this, and how can I help him feel more comfortable?"
• Lisa from Denver, Colorado
  "I have a young, high-energy golden retriever and I want to make sure he is getting enough exercise. How much activity should I aim for each day to keep him healthy and happy?"

Follow and Connect

• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X & YouTube
• Follow DOGTV on Instagram, Facebook & X

 

Related Links and Resources

• Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show: westminsterkennelclub.org
• Veterinary Innovative Partners (VIP): vip-vet.com
• Purple Leash Initiative – Supporting Domestic Abuse Survivors and Their Pets: Purple Leash Project

This episode offers a unique look at one of the biggest events in the dog world, along with an important discussion on the future of veterinary medicine. Subscribe and tune in every Tuesday for more insights and stories from the pet industry.

49. Paws, Hearts, and Breakthroughs – The Science of Connection and Training for a Better Pet Life

In this engaging and heartfelt episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonafati deliver insights, warmth, and fun as they dive into the science of pet-owner connections and practical training strategies. With two expert guests and exciting product recommendations, this episode is packed with value for every pet lover.

Guests

Dr. Courtney Campbell, DVM, DACVS-SA
Veterinary surgeon and media personality Dr. Courtney Campbell discusses the launch of Pet Surgery Week in March and shares insights into advanced veterinary care. From using CT scans to arthroscopy, Dr. Campbell highlights how awareness events empower pet parents to provide optimal care for their pets.

Grisha Stewart
Globally renowned dog trainer, author, and founder of the Grisha Stewart Academy, Grisha introduces her Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT) methodology, which helps reactive dogs build confidence and trust through positive and empathetic techniques. She also shares exciting updates about her online academy and courses for trainers and pet parents.

Show Highlights

• Storytime:
  Chris dives into a fascinating story about bees and environmental allergy management, while Kristen shares an intriguing study from the University of Helsinki proving that dogs’ heart rates sync with their owners during bonding activities. These tales reveal the extraordinary connection between humans, pets, and nature.
• Guest Interviews:
  • Dr. Courtney Campbell talks about Pet Surgery Week, making surgery less intimidating, and using cutting-edge technology to elevate pet care.
  • Grisha Stewart shares her journey to creating the BAT methodology, focusing on understanding canine emotions and practical tools for helping reactive dogs.

Products of the Week

1. Knead Therapeutic Bed for Cats

• Designed for senior cats and those with arthritis, this memory foam bed offers nano heating technology for gentle warmth and ergonomic support.
• Perfect for cold days and cats with joint pain.
• Website: kneadcats.com

Green Juju Just Greens Supplement

• A simple, nutrient-dense topper made from whole-food ingredients to boost your dog’s health.
• Great for adding vitamins and minerals to meals.
• Website: greenjuju.com

Audience Questions

1. Taylor from Chicago, IL:
   “I think my cat Biscuit might have separation anxiety. She seems stressed and destructive when I’m gone. Is this a real thing, and how can I help her?”
   Kristen and Chris address the reality of feline separation anxiety and share enrichment strategies like interactive toys and maintaining a predictable routine.
2. Marcus from Denver, CO:
   “My dog Max isn’t a fan of socializing and gets nervous in groups. How can I help him without overwhelming him?”
   Chris and Kristen discuss gradual exposure, using positive reinforcement, and respecting your dog’s comfort zones.

Related Links

• Dr. Courtney Campbell: Visit Stitches Veterinary Surgery Center and follow him on Instagram: @DrCourtneyDVM.
• Grisha Stewart Academy: Explore over 160 dog behavior courses: grishastewart.com.
• Dog Heart Rate Synchronization Study (University of Helsinki): Read more here: www.helsinki.fi/dog-study.
• Knead Therapeutic Bed: kneadcats.com.
• Green Juju Just Greens Supplement: greenjuju.com.

Social Channels

• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X & YouTube
• Follow DOGTV on Instagram, Facebook & X

 

This episode celebrates the powerful emotional bonds we share with pets and equips listeners with science-backed training techniques and cutting-edge medical advice. Whether you’re managing your pet’s health, navigating training challenges, or just learning how to love your furry friends better, this episode has something for everyone.

Tune in and share the joy of pet parenthood! 🐾

 

48. Enlightening Journeys in Pet Training and History

Join Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati in an engaging episode of Pets Add Life as they explore groundbreaking insights into dog behavior and history. With expert guests Annie Grossman and Chris Pearson, this episode offers inspiring conversations about modern training techniques and the evolving relationship between humans and dogs.

Guests & Highlights

Guest 1: Annie Grossman
A journalist-turned-dog trainer, Annie Grossman is the owner of School For The Dogs in Manhattan’s East Village. Annie’s critically acclaimed book, How to Train Your Dog with Love + Science, dismantles myths about dog training rooted in dominance and coercion. She shares:

• The science behind positive reinforcement and its effectiveness.
• Common dog training myths and the harm of punishment-based techniques.
• Foundational advice for overwhelmed new pet parents to build a trusting bond with their dogs.

Guest 2: Chris Pearson
Chris Pearson, a professor of environmental history, discusses his book Collared: How We Made the Modern Dog. He provides a fascinating dive into:

• The historical shift of dogs from workers to companions.
• How urbanization challenges dogs and their adaptation strategies.
• The lessons learned from studying Indian street dogs and their role in society.

Products of the Week

PawPort Smart Door

• Revolutionizes the traditional pet door with smart technology.
• Features include app control, LED nightlights, and scheduling access for pets.
• Great for tracking your pet’s activity and preventing unwanted animals from entering.

My Cat Wall Cubbies

• Hexagonal wooden cubbies designed to create a climbing playground for cats.
• Aesthetic and functional, promoting exercise and mental stimulation.
• Easy to install and perfect for enriching your cat’s environment.

Audience Q&A

1. Olivia from Denver, CO:
   “My Labrador Max has been chewing everything, including furniture. How can I redirect his behavior and save my couch?”
   Kristen’s Advice: Regular exercise, interactive toys like frozen Kong treats, and using deterrent sprays can help manage Max’s chewing behavior.
2. Sophie from Portland, OR:
   “My cat Luna jumps on counters while I’m cooking. How can I train her to stay off without stressing her out?”
   Chris’s Advice: Use aluminum foil on countertops to deter Luna, and provide cat-friendly climbing spaces like wall-mounted shelves or trees as alternatives.

Related Links

• Annie Grossman’s How to Train Your Dog with Love + Science
• Chris Pearson’s Collared: How We Made the Modern Dog
• PawPort Smart Door Preorder
• My Cat Wall Cubbies
• Pasadena Humane Society - Supporting pets displaced by wildfires. Donate Here
• HELP FINDING PETS LOST IN LA FIRES

Social Channels

• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X & YouTube
• Follow DOGTV on Instagram, Facebook & X

 

Follow Our Guests:

• Annie Grossman: School For The Dogs
• Chris Pearson: Sniffing the Past Blog

47. Bubbles, Luxury, and Joyful Innovations for Pets

In this captivating episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati dive into the creative and innovative ways pet owners can enhance their furry friends’ lives. From therapeutic bubbles to luxury pet amenities, this episode is packed with inspiration, fun, and practical advice.

We begin with John Reider, affectionately known as "The Bubble Man" from St. Louis. John is the creative genius behind Atomic Bubbles®, a brand that has transformed bubbles into a safe and therapeutic activity for pets and their owners. John shares:

• How he turned a whimsical idea into a global phenomenon with pet-safe, allergen-free bubbles.
• The benefits of bubble play for pet health and senior pet owners, including promoting mobility and connection.
• His unique journey from glow-in-the-dark bubbles to his groundbreaking pet-safe product line.

Next, we welcome Teddy Tawil and Irving Fallas, co-founders of Happy Tails, a luxury canine club in Tribeca, NYC, often called the “Soho House for Dogs.” Teddy and Irving discuss:

• The inspiration behind their 10,000-square-foot paradise for pups, featuring themed play areas, a dog psychic, and even canine yoga classes.
• The importance of building community among urban pet owners through events and shared spaces.
• Their vision for providing upscale, holistic pet care and fostering deep connections between dogs and their owners.

Products of the Week

• KindTail Pod Dog Crate
• Koston Sustainable Pet Toys

Q&A’s

• “How can I protect my dog from respiratory illnesses like CIRDC, especially when she’s around other dogs?” (Mark from Denver, CO)
• “Winters in Chicago are brutal! How can I keep my dog Max safe and comfortable during walks in freezing temperatures?” (Jillian from Chicago, IL)

Related Links

• America’s Best Customer Service 2025
• Atomic Bubbles 
• Happy Tails NYC

Social Channels:

• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X & YouTube
• Follow DOGTV on Instagram, Facebook & X
• Follow Atomic Bubbles on Instagram
• Follow Happy Tails on Instagram

From playful bubbles to luxury urban retreats, this episode celebrates the creativity, joy, and community at the heart of the human-animal bond. Sit back, relax, and prepare for an inspiring listen. Pets Add Life! 🐾

 

46. Best of 2024 – Celebrating the Moments That Made Us Smile

Happy New Year, and welcome to the first episode of 2025! 🎉🐾 In this special edition of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati take a look back at some of the most inspiring, heartwarming, and unforgettable moments from the past year.

With some fascinating conversations with legendary guests we’re revisiting the highlights that made us laugh, cry, and cherish the bond we share with our pets.

Enjoy a recap of standout episodes featuring pet wellness tips, life-changing pet stories, and touching advice from pet professionals and advocates. It’s the perfect way to kick off 2025 with gratitude for the joy, love, and magic pets brought to our lives in 2024.

Sit back, reminisce, and celebrate the best of Pets Add Life. Cheers to a new year of pawsome stories, furry friends, and more moments to remember! 

Social Channels:
Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X & YouTube

Follow DOGTV on Instagram, Facebook & X

 

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join us for an exciting new year of pet-loving content in 2025! 🐾