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Welcome to the Pets Add Life Podcast dedicated to pet parents and enthusiasts looking to learn more about the world of pets and pet ownership! Each week, your hosts, Certified Cat Dad Chris Bonifati and Pet Living Expert Kristen Levine, explore the many ways Pets Add Life – diving into the latest trends in pet care, sharing heartwarming stories of animal companionship, and more – with special guests that include pet industry experts and passionate pet owners. Each episode features two pet stories, two special guests, two product recommendations and two questions from the audience. Tune in to the Pets Add Life Podcast on Tuesdays for new episodes! Presented by: American Pet Products Association & DOGTV
Episodes
Jun 30, 2026
Jun 30, 2026
48 min
In this episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine celebrate the 10th anniversary of Pet Anxiety Awareness Month while continuing their Global Pet Expo 2026 coverage. Kristen shares the personal story that inspired a decade-long mission to help pets struggling with anxiety, while Chris highlights some of the most innovative products recognized at Global Pet Expo. The episode also explores the growing popularity of cat cafés, responsible pet adoption, and how pet parents can confidently evaluate supplements and wellness products for their pets.
Story Time features:
Kristen shares the story of her beloved dog Buck, whose severe separation anxiety ultimately inspired the creation of Pet Anxiety Awareness Month. She discusses how veterinary behaviorists, behavior modification, environmental changes, and medication helped transform Buck’s quality of life.
Chris spotlights Global Pet Expo’s Best in Show Award winners and explains how pet parents can explore the newest and most innovative pet products recognized by retailers, media, and industry experts.
Special Guests:
Sandra Cagan, Co-Founder, Orlando Cat Café
Bill Bookout, President, National Animal Supplement Council (NASC)
Todd Harrison, Attorney, Venable LLP & Animal Health Regulatory Expert
Pet Product Recommendations:
Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Interactive Dog Puzzle Toys – https://outwardhound.com
NATURVET SUPPLEMENT 4 IN 1 VITAMIN FOR DOGS –
Q&A Topics:
A cat suddenly refusing to use a self-cleaning litter box despite a clean bill of health. Chris discusses proper maintenance, hygiene, and why litter box cleanliness remains critical even with automated systems. (Submitted by a Global Pet Expo attendee)
What beginners should understand about horse behavior and care. Kristen explains the importance of recognizing horses as prey animals and building trust through calm, predictable interactions. (Submitted by Olivia from Lexington, KY)
Related Links:
Pet Anxiety Awareness Month: https://www.petanxietyawareness.com
Orlando Cat Café: https://www.orlandocatcafe.com
Orlando Cat Café Franchising: https://www.orlandocatcafefranchise.com
National Animal Supplement Council (NASC): https://www.nasc.cc
Global Pet Expo Best in Show Awards: https://globalpetexpo.org
Global Pet Expo: https://www.globalpetexpo.org
American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org
DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com
Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org
Social Channels:
Orlando Cat Café (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/orlandocatcafe
National Animal Supplement Council (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/NASCQualitySeal
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
Jun 23, 2026
Jun 23, 2026
48 min
In this episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine continue their coverage from Global Pet Expo 2026. They explore new research on dog ownership trends, fascinating discoveries about ancient canine evolution, and conversations with two industry leaders helping shape the future of pet products. From sustainability and responsible sourcing to the power of authentic storytelling and video marketing, this episode offers valuable insights for pet parents, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals alike.
Story Time features:
Chris shares findings from APPA’s latest State of the Industry Report, revealing that 53% of U.S. households now own a dog—an increase representing approximately 4 million additional dog-owning homes since 2024.
Kristen highlights new research showing that dogs displayed remarkable diversity in size and skull shape more than 11,000 years ago, challenging the long-held belief that most breed diversity originated only in recent centuries through selective breeding.
Special Guests:
Jim Lamancusa, Executive Director, Pet Sustainability Coalition
Greg Rollett, Marketing Strategist, Head of Video at The Grommet & Startup Pavilion Host, Global Pet Expo
Pet Product Recommendations:
World’s Best Cat Litter Health Check-In – https://www.worldsbestcatlitter.com
JoJo Modern Pets Natural Dog Chews & Toys – https://jojomodernpets.com
Q&A Topics:
Best ways to keep a dog mentally stimulated, including puzzle toys, snuffle mats, enrichment games, and DIY feeding activities. (Submitted by Kevin from Boston, MA)
How to balance being a loving pet parent without becoming a pushover, while using positive reinforcement to encourage better behavior. (Submitted by a Global Pet Expo attendee)
Related Links:
Pet Sustainability Coalition: https://www.petsustainability.org
The Grommet: https://www.thegrommet.com
Global Pet Expo: https://www.globalpetexpo.org
American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org
DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com
Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org
Social Channels:
Pet Sustainability Coalition (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/pet-industry-sustainability-coalition/
The Grommet (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/thegrommet
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
Jun 16, 2026
Jun 16, 2026
48 min
In this informative episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the continued growth of the pet industry, the value pets bring to our lives, and the policies and trade events shaping the future of pet ownership. From APPA’s latest industry data to global pet trends and responsible pet advocacy, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the forces driving the pet world forward.
Story Time features:
Chris shares highlights from APPA’s latest State of the Industry Report, revealing that U.S. pet industry spending reached approximately $158 billion in 2025 and is projected to continue growing as pet ownership expands across generations.
Kristen discusses new research from the University of Kent suggesting that the positive impact pets have on human well-being may be worth the equivalent of tens of thousands of dollars annually in life satisfaction and emotional benefits.
Special Guests:
Sandy Moore, CEO, Pet Advocacy Network
Rowena Arzt, Head of Exhibitions, Interzoo
Pet Product Recommendations:
Delectables Cat Treats & Toppers – https://www.hartz.com/our-brands/delectables
Pet-Ag Dynovite Supplements – https://www.petag.com
Q&A Topics:
My dog is friendly with people but not great with other dogs. Is it too late to socialize an adult dog, and how should I approach it? (Submitted by Amanda from Miami, FL)
I’m new to owning fish. What are the most important things people often get wrong when setting up and maintaining a home aquarium? (Submitted by Daniel from Tampa, FL)
Related Links:
Pet Advocacy Network: https://petadvocacy.org
Interzoo: https://www.interzoo.com
American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org
Global Pet Expo: https://globalpetexpo.org
DOGTV Unleashed FAST Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed
Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org
Social Channels:
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
Jun 9, 2026
Jun 9, 2026
48 min
In this special live episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine kick off the 10th annual Pet Anxiety Awareness Month. Joined by two leading experts in animal behavior and veterinary medicine, the conversation explores the causes of fear, stress, and anxiety in pets, how these conditions affect physical and emotional well-being, and what pet parents can do to help their dogs and cats live more confident, comfortable lives.
Story Time features:
Chris shares the heartwarming story of a woman who adopted a cat to help with her own mental health, only to discover that her new feline companion struggled with anxiety too. Together, they helped each other heal, highlighting the powerful bond between pets and people.
Kristen reflects on the inspiration behind Pet Anxiety Awareness Month, sharing the story of her beloved dog Buck and how his battle with separation anxiety led her to create a nationwide awareness campaign dedicated to helping pet parents recognize and treat anxiety-related conditions.
Special Guests:
Debbie Martin, Licensed Veterinary Technician, Veterinary Technician Specialist (Behavior), Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner & Elite Fear Free Certified® Professional
Dr. Kiona Williams, Veterinarian, Chewy Vet Care & Fear Free Certified Professional
Pet Product Recommendations:
Calmer Canine – https://assisi.zomedica.com/products/calmer-canine/
Chuckit! Launchers & Fetch Toys – https://www.chuckit-toys.com
DOGTV – https://www.dogtv.com
Reconcile – https://www.reconcile.com
SecureDog & SecureCat Pheromone Products www.securebysigns.com/us/products/securedog
Fresh Patch – https://www.freshpatch.com
Ease Pet Vet – https://easepetvet.com
Atomic Bubbles – https://atomicbubbles.com
Q&A Topics:
My dog seems perfectly happy when we're together, but the moment I leave the house he starts barking, whining, and sometimes destroys things. How can I tell if this is true separation anxiety, and what are the best steps to help him feel more comfortable being alone? (Submitted by Jessica from Charlotte, NC)
My cat has been licking himself so much that he's starting to lose hair. We've ruled out skin issues and fleas. Could this be anxiety, and what can I do to help? (Submitted by Lizzy via YouTube Live)
Related Links:
Pet Anxiety Awareness Month: https://petanxietyawareness.com
Fear Free Pets: https://fearfreepets.com
Chewy Vet Care: https://www.chewy.com/b/vet-care-17377
DOGTV Understanding Pet Anxiety Special: https://www.dogtv.com
Ease Pet Vet: https://easepetvet.com
American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org
Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org
Social Channels:
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
Jun 2, 2026
Jun 2, 2026
48 min
In this lively episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, recorded live from Global Pet Expo, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore heroic animal rescue, growing Gen X pet ownership trends, practical veterinary wisdom, and the joyful world of corgi racing. From pets rescued by drones in Ukraine to Dr. Jan Pol’s decades of real-world veterinary experience and Ziggy the Corgi’s rise in sports entertainment, this episode celebrates the many ways pets bring purpose, connection, and joy into our lives.
Story Time features:
Kristen shares the incredible story of Ukrainian soldiers who used a military drone to rescue a stranded dog and cat from the front lines, helping bring the animals to safety during an active war zone.
Chris highlights new APPA research showing that Gen X pet owners are driving significant growth across multiple pet categories, including dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and freshwater fish.
Special Guests:
Dr. Jan Pol, Veterinarian & Star of The Incredible Dr. Pol
Jess Ramberg, Creator of Ziggy the Corgi & Founder of Little Stumps Racing
Pet Product Recommendations:
Playology Scented Dog Toys – https://playologypets.com
The Lazy Dog Cookie Co. Pup-PIE® & Birthday Treats – https://lazydogcookies.com
Q&A Topics:
There’s so much conflicting information online about dog food. How can pet parents tell if their dog is actually thriving on a certain diet? (Submitted by Andrew from Phoenix, AZ)
My cat hides every time someone new comes into the house. Is there a safe way to help shy cats become more social and confident around people? (Submitted by Emily from Portland, OR)
Related Links:
The Incredible Dr. Pol: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/tv/shows/the-incredible-dr-pol
Dr. Pol Clinical Nutrition: https://thedrpol.com/dr-pol-launches-non-prescription-clinical-nutrition-dog-food-line-available-exclusively-at-walmart/
Dr. Pol at Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/brand/drpol/10026293
Ziggy the Corgi: https://www.instagram.com/ziggy_thecorgi
Little Stumps Racing: https://littlestumpsracing.com
Little Stumps Racing (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/littlestumpsracing
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:
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
May 26, 2026
May 26, 2026
48 min
In this fascinating episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the future of pet nutrition, the science of evolution, and innovative approaches to preventative pet health. From sustainable insect-based proteins to feline evolution and longevity medicine, this episode highlights how science and technology continue shaping the future of pet care.
Story Time features:
Kristen shares the story of a former software engineer who helped transform his dog’s health through insect-based nutrition, leading to the creation of a new pet food ingredient company focused on buffalo mealworm protein as a sustainable and highly palatable dietary supplement.
Chris explores the growing challenge facing the pet food industry: balancing environmentally sustainable ingredients with increasing consumer demand for premium, human-grade pet nutrition.
Special Guests:
Dr. Jonathan Losos, Evolutionary Biologist & Author of The Cat’s Meow
Dr. Henry Yoo, Veterinarian & Executive Consultant, Infinity Medical Consulting
Pet Product Recommendations:
Oneisall Smart Automatic Feeder for Two Cats – https://oneisall.com
Barkly Retractable Dog Leash with Personal Safety Alarm – https://mybarkly.com/
Q&A Topics:
My dog seems incredibly smart and learns words quickly. How do scientists actually measure canine intelligence? (Submitted by Mark from Columbus, OH)
My son recently got a betta fish. What size tank and type of environment does a betta fish really need to stay healthy and happy? (Submitted by Laura from San Diego, CA)
Related Links:
The Cat’s Meow by Dr. Jonathan Losos: https://global.oup.com
Planet Paws: https://www.planetpawsmedia.com
Infinity Medical Consulting: https://www.infinitymedicalconsulting.com
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:
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
May 19, 2026
May 19, 2026
48 min
In this fascinating episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore cutting-edge innovations in pet health, longevity, and recovery technology. From AI-powered lost pet reunification systems to breakthrough research on cancer prevention and aging, this episode delivers practical insight into how science and technology are helping pets live longer, healthier lives.
Story Time features:
Kristen shares how AI-powered image recognition is helping reunite lost pets with their families through Petco Love Lost, a growing database that analyzes hundreds of visual data points to match missing pets with shelter and neighborhood sightings.
Chris highlights a fascinating look into the lives of ultra-wealthy dog owners, exploring luxury grooming, longevity therapies, premium nutrition, and the growing trend of treating pets as full-fledged family members.
Special Guests:
Rodney Habib, Pet Health Educator, Author & Founder of Planet Paws
Dr. Kevin Toman, Veterinarian & Longevity Medicine Specialist
Pet Product Recommendations:
Lootpaw GPS & Behavioral Tracker – https://www.lootpawpets.com/
Petco Love Lost AI Pet Recovery Service – https://petcolove.org/lost
Q&A Topics:
I recently adopted a shy young cat who hides when visitors come over. What are safe and gentle ways to help her become more comfortable socializing? (Submitted by Melissa from Portland, OR)
We lost our last dog to cancer and just adopted a new puppy. Are there things we can do early in life to reduce the risk of cancer? (Submitted by Daniel from Tampa, FL)
Related Links:
Planet Paws: https://planetpaws.ca/
Dr. Karen Becker: https://healthypets.mercola.com
Helping Pets Live Longer: https://helpingpetslivelonger.com
Petco Love Lost: https://petcolove.org/lost
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:
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
May 12, 2026
May 12, 2026
48 min
In this engaging episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, recorded live from Global Pet Expo, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the growing demand for transparency in pet nutrition, the importance of mental enrichment for pets, and how technology is reshaping modern pet care. From FDA labeling updates to smart feeders and interactive puzzle toys, this episode highlights the exciting evolution of the pet industry and the people driving it forward.
Story Time features:
Chris shares emerging FDA efforts to improve transparency and labeling standards in pet food, as more pet parents demand clearer ingredient information, stronger nutritional claims, and science-backed product messaging.
Kristen reflects on the inspiring work of Brother Wolf Animal Rescue following Hurricane Helene, encouraging pet lovers to consider fostering animals through local shelters and rescue organizations to help save more lives.
Special Guests:
Nina Ottosson, Dog Trainer & Creator of Interactive Puzzle Toys
Roundtable Guests:
Anna Marie Mossa, Co-Founder, LootPaw
Alexander Figueroa, Co-Founder, Lootpaw
Pet Product Recommendations:
Catstages Infinity Ball Track & Puzzle Feeders
LootPaw GPS & Behavioral Tracker – https://www.lootpawpets.com/
Q&A Topics:
There are so many different types of cat litter — clay, crystal, natural — how do I choose the best one for my cat and my home? (Submitted by David from Atlanta, GA)
My dog gets bored and destructive at home — how much mental stimulation do dogs really need, and what are easy ways to provide it? (Submitted by Brian from Seattle, WA)
Related Links:
Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Puzzle Toys: https://outwardhound.com
Brother Wolf Animal Rescue: https://www.bwar.org
Lootpaw Smart Pet Ecosystem: https://www.lootpawpets.com/
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:
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
Meet the hosts
Chris Bonifati, CEM, boasts an extensive career within the Pet Industry, notably serving as a key Trade Show organizer for APPA/Global Pet Expo. Renowned for his adeptness in data-driven decision-making, Chris leverages his skills to craft compelling narratives that resonate with his audience, ensuring optimal experiences at events. Beyond his pivotal role in shaping the success of Global Pet Expo, Chris indulges his passions, whether immersed in the pages of comic books, embarking on thrilling adventures in the realm of Dungeons & Dragons, or enjoying a round of golf on the course.
Kristen Levine is a nationally acclaimed pet expert, influencer, and author with over 30 years of experience working with pets. Through her Pet Living blog and over 1,000 media appearances, Kristen has helped millions of pet parents solve problems and provide the best care for their dogs and cats. Her current furry "pal" is Tulip, her adopted min-pin, chihuahua mix.