Pets Add Life

45. The Power of Pet Energy Healing and Wellness for the New Year

In this special New Year’s edition of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati bring calm, balance, and intention to you and your pets as we welcome 2025 with positivity and care.

We kick things off with Amanda Ree, a canine wellness practitioner, certified educator, and animal chaplain who blends meditation, Ayurveda-inspired care, and natural healing techniques to nurture pets and their humans. Amanda shares:

• How meditation and energy work can help pets and humans release stress and find tranquility.
• Tips for creating a daily mindfulness routine with your pet to build connection and trust.
• A guided meditation to help you and your furry friend start the new year with peace and focus.

Amanda’s soothing voice and insight provide a perfect reset, helping listeners embrace the bond between pets and their people.

Next, we welcome Shelly Greenbaum, an experienced animal Reiki practitioner and animal communicator. For over a decade, Shelly has brought love and healing to pets through energy work, helping shelter dogs, long-term rescues, and family pets feel balanced and cared for. Shelly explains:

• How Reiki works to bring comfort, calm, and healing to pets, even remotely.
• Signs that your pet may be stressed or unbalanced and how energy work can help.
• Heartwarming stories of recovery and transformation, proving the power of love and connection.

Shelly also shares a beautiful, collective energy blessing for all pets to help them enter the New Year with health, happiness, and love.

Products of the Week

• Whistle Health Tracker
• Smart Cookie Functional Dog Treats
• Pet MD - Dog Ear Cleaner Wipes

Q&A’s

• “My dog Leo is terrified of fireworks. With New Year's Eve around the corner, what can I do to help him feel safe and calm?” (Ava from Denver, CO)
• “I’m thinking of adopting two cats at once – a bonded pair. Is this a good idea, or should I start with one?” (Jasmine from San Diego, CA)

Related Links

• By improving kidney function, can “AIM” double cats’ lifespan?
• The 2024 American Humane Hero Dog is the epitome of a good boy

Social Channels

• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X & YouTube
• Follow DOGTV on Instagram, Facebook & X
• Follow Amanda Ree on Instagram and visit SamaDog.com
• Follow Shelly Greenbaum for Reiki and energy healing resources

This New Year, let’s celebrate the power of calm, connection, and care for our pets. From meditation and energy healing to technology and enrichment tools, there are so many ways to make 2025 a healthy and joyful year for our furry friends.

Sit back, relax, and embrace this fresh start. From the Pets Add Life family to yours, Happy New Year! 🎉🐾

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join us every Tuesday for more paw-some episodes.

Pets Add Life 🐶🐱✨

44. The Magic of Broadway Pets and Dancing Dogs for the Holidays

In this festive and heartwarming Christmas edition of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati deliver a double dose of joy, magic, and inspiration perfect for the season of giving.

Our first guest is Bill Berloni, the legendary animal trainer and Tony Award honoree. Bill has revolutionized animal training in theater, television, and film, famously introducing rescued pets as Broadway stars. He shares incredible stories, including:

• How a shelter dog became the original Sandy in Annie and ran over 2,000 performances.
• The challenges of balancing creative demands with ensuring the well-being of performing animals.
• Advice for adopting pets during the holidays, emphasizing preparation and choosing the right animal for your family.

Bill’s passion for humane training and animal advocacy shines through as he reflects on a career that has changed the way we see pets in entertainment.

Next, we spotlight the artistry of Roni Sagi, the international dog-dancing sensation and America’s Got Talent 2024 runner-up, alongside her extraordinary Border Collie, Rhythm. Roni takes us inside the magical world of canine freestyle, sharing:

• How she discovered the joy of dog dancing and transformed it into a celebrated career.
• Her approach to choreographing breathtaking duets that showcase dogs as equal performers.
• The bond she shares with Rhythm, including stories about his playful off-stage personality and his rising stardom.

Roni’s work demonstrates the deep emotional connection between humans and their pets while bringing smiles to audiences worldwide.

Products of the Week:

• Tuft + Paw Cloud9 Window Hammock
• Dash Dog Treat Maker (Special Edition)

Q&A’s:

• “How do I know which dog training method is right for my dog?” (Emma from Chicago, IL)
• “Why has my cat, Luna, stopped eating as much as usual?” (Tyler from Portland, OR)

Related Links:

• Home 4 The Holidays Adoption Campaign
• Study: Sustainable packaging influences pet food purchases in Europe
• Bill Berloni’s Broadway Tails and From Wags to Riches
• Roni Sagi’s Keta Tov Dog Dancing School
• DOGTV Holiday giveaway

Social Channels:

• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X & YouTube
• Follow DOGTV on Instagram, Facebook & X
• Follow Bill Berloni on Instagram 
• Follow Roni Sagi on Instagram, YouTube & TikTok 

Submit a question to the podcast: http://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by the American Pet Products Association & DOGTV

Sit back, grab some hot cocoa, and enjoy the holiday magic! From our Pets Add Life family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and tune in for more paw-some episodes in the New Year!

Pets Add Life 🎄🐾

 

43. Holiday Pet Health, Heartwarming Stories, and Christmas Cheer

In this festive episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati bring holiday warmth with expert advice, inspiring stories, and tips for a safe and joyful season for pets and their people.

Special Guests:

• Dr. David Haworth – Veterinarian, entrepreneur, and founder of the Institute for Pets and Society, shares:
  • The latest advancements in veterinary oncology, offering hope for pet cancer treatments.
  • Essential tips for keeping pets safe during the holiday season.
  • Insights into the evolving human-animal bond and groundbreaking research like the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study.
• Amy Shojai – Award-winning author and pet behavior expert, discusses:
  • Tips for welcoming new pets into the family during the holidays.
  • A touching Christmas story from The Dog Who Came to Christmas anthology.
  • Her Thrillers with Bite fiction series and her work as a pioneer in pet-centric writing.

Products of the Week:

• Orvis Full-Size Sofa Cover
• Bedsure Wearable Blanket 

Q&A’s:

• “My dog pulls on the leash when walking in snowy weather. How can I stop this?” (Kevin from Denver, CO)
• My cat climbs the Christmas tree every year! How can I keep her safe and protect my decorations?” (Margaret from Seattle, WA)

Related Links:

• Amy Shojai’s Website 
• Spin the wheel at DogTV.com for a chance to win exciting prizes.

Social Channels:

• Follow Kristen Levine on Instagram, Facebook, & YouTube
• Follow Chris Bonafati on Linkedin
• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X & YouTube
• Follow DOGTV on Instagram, Facebook & X

Tune in for a heartwarming holiday special packed with expert advice, inspiring stories, and plenty of festive cheer. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join us next week for more paw-some content!

42. Revolutionizing Dog Parenting and Exploring Canine Gaming

In this exciting episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonafati dive into two engaging discussions that blend innovation, empathy, and the latest advancements in pet care.

We kick off with Angie Winters, the trailblazing author of Don't Train Your Dog. Angie challenges the traditional notion of dog training, advocating instead for a parental approach grounded in communication, guidance, and mutual trust. With over two decades of experience rehabilitating more than 1,000 dogs, Angie shares insights into:

• Why traditional training methods often fall short.
• The importance of understanding a dog’s emotions and behaviors.
• How simple "recipes" for common dog behaviors can transform the dog-parent relationship.

Angie’s holistic approach ensures dogs remain happy, healthy, and integrated into their families, 

Next, we explore the intersection of animal intelligence and technology with Professor Clara Mancini, a leader in Animal-Computer Interaction, and Dr. Dersim Avdar, co-founder of Joipaw. Together, they discuss:

• The ethical design of technology that benefits animals.
• Joipaw’s innovative games for dogs, designed to enhance cognitive health and mental stimulation.
• How pet parents can incorporate technology into their pets’ lives in meaningful ways.

This groundbreaking work showcases the potential for multispecies inclusivity and the evolving relationship between humans, animals, and technology.

Products of the Week:

1. American Cat Company Cat Scratchers

• Durable, eco-friendly, and aesthetically pleasing scratchers.
• Made in the USA with non-toxic materials and long-lasting designs.

WeatherTech Pet Ramps

• A lifesaver for mobility-impaired pets.
• Designed for durability and ease of use, perfect for large dogs.

Q&A Segment:

Kristen and Chris answer your holiday pet care questions:

1. Michael from Austin, TX:
   "My dog gets really anxious when strangers visit during the holidays. What can I do?"

• Kristen suggests creating a safe space, maintaining routines, and exploring calming products like wraps or chews.

Emily from Minneapolis, MN:
"How can I keep my dog safe and comfortable during freezing temperatures?"

• Chris emphasizes the importance of booties for protecting paws, limiting outdoor time, and watching for signs of cold distress like shivering or paw-lifting.

Social Channels:

• Follow Kristen Levine on Instagram, Facebook, & YouTube
• Follow Chris Bonafati on Linkedin
• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X & YouTube
• Follow DOGTV on Instagram, Facebook & X

 

Related Links:

• Angie Winters: Don’t Train Your Dog
• Joipaw: Joipaw Website
• DOGTV

Stay tuned for more heartwarming stories, cutting-edge insights, and actionable tips for pet parents. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join us next week for another paw-some episode!

41. Feeding Smarter and Designing Better Lives for Pets

In this engaging episode, Kristen and Chris bring you two captivating conversations about enhancing the lives of pets through better nutrition and thoughtful design.

First, we welcome Dr. Ernie Ward, an internationally acclaimed veterinarian, pet nutrition expert, and author of The Clean Pet Food Revolution. With the holiday season in full swing, Dr. Ward shares essential advice on healthy pet eating habits, avoiding the dangers of holiday treats, and understanding pet obesity. His insights will inspire pet parents to make smarter choices for their furry companions, ensuring a healthier and happier holiday season.

Next, we sit down with Kate Benjamin, founder of Hauspanther and co-author of the best-selling books Catification and Catified to Satisfy. Kate merges her passion for design with her love of cats, creating stylish and functional spaces for feline friends. She offers practical tips for catifying homes, from creating climbing spaces to choosing stylish scratching posts. Kate's innovative ideas prove that form and function can coexist beautifully in a pet-friendly home.

The episode wraps up with Chris and Kristen highlighting their Products of the Week, featuring sustainable, comfortable dog beds by Buffy and healthy chew treats from Himalayan Dog Chew. Plus, they tackle listener questions about pet food and breed-specific health concerns in the Q&A segment.

Special Guests:

• Dr. Ernie Ward
  Topics: Pet nutrition, obesity prevention, and healthy holiday eating for pets.
  Related Books: The Clean Pet Food Revolution, Chow Hounds: Why Our Dogs Are Getting Fatter.
• Kate Benjamin
  Topics: Catification, stylish design for pet homes, and enrichment for feline wellbeing.
  Related Books: Catification, Catified to Satisfy.

Products of the Week:

• Buffy Dog Beds: Sustainable, washable, orthopedic dog beds that double as napping spots for humans!
• Himalayan Dog Chew: Long-lasting, natural chew treats made from yak milk, offering a safe alternative to rawhide.

Q&A:

1. Sarah from Bristol, UK: How can I choose the right pet food for my dog’s specific needs, and are there ingredients to avoid?

• Dr. Ward's advice emphasizes balanced nutrition, ingredient transparency, and avoiding overly processed foods.

Emily from Portland, OR: Are certain breeds, like Huskies or Bulldogs, guaranteed to have health issues, and how can I prepare?

• Kristen recommends breed-specific research, consulting vets, and considering pet insurance to manage risks effectively.

Related Links:

• Association for Pet Obesity Prevention
• Hauspanther by Kate Benjamin
• Himalayan Dog Chew
• Buffy Dog Beds

Social Media Channels:
Follow Pets Add Life, DOGTV, Hauspanther, and Dr. Ernie Ward for more pet lifestyle inspiration.

Presented By:
The American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV.

40. Giving Thanks: Stories, Tips & Gratitude

In this heartfelt Thanksgiving special, Kristen and Chris switch roles and take the hot seat to share their personal experiences and insights as pet lovers.

Chris opens up about his mischievous cat, Tiger, and how pets bring humor and love into our lives, while Kristen reflects on her journey rescuing and raising pets, offering touching anecdotes that will resonate with listeners. Together, they provide essential Thanksgiving pet safety tips—what’s safe to share from the holiday table, what to avoid, and how to ensure pets stay stress-free during the celebrations.

The episode wraps up with creative holiday product ideas and listener questions covering everything from training techniques to choosing the right breed for your family. Celebrate Thanksgiving with gratitude, laughs, and a deeper appreciation for the special bond we share with our pets.

Special Guests:
Kristen Levine (!), Co-Host of Pets Add Life Podcast
Chris Bonafati (!), Co-Host of Pets Add Life Podcast

Pet Product Recommendations:

Clear Ice Cube Maker
Petlibro Automatic Wet Food Feeder

Q&A’s:

• What’s the best way to keep a horse happy and healthy as a new owner?
• What’s the difference between positive reinforcement and correction in training, and which works best?

Links: 

 

• Visit Pets Add Life to submit your questions and explore more resources.
• Check out DOGTV for pet-friendly programming.

 

Social Channels:

• Follow Kristen Levine on Instagram, Facebook, & YouTube
• Follow Chris Bonafati on Linkedin
• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X & YouTube
• Follow DOGTV on Instagram, Facebook & X
• Submit your questions to the podcast here

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

Celebrate the holiday season with gratitude, laughs, and love for the pets that make our lives brighter!

39. Enriching Feline Lives and Understanding Pet Behavior

In this inspiring episode, Kristen and Chris bring you two incredible guests who are redefining the world of pets with innovation and expertise.

First, we’re joined by Cynthia Chomos, founder of Catio Spaces. Cynthia shares how her passion for design, nature, and cats led her to create beautiful and safe outdoor enclosures—or catios—that protect wildlife and enrich the lives of cats. She also provides tips for creating pet-friendly spaces and discusses how catios can be especially beneficial for senior cats during November’s Senior Pet Month.

Next, we welcome Dr. Annie Valuska, principal scientist on Purina’s Pet Behavior Team. Dr. Valuska talks about her fascinating career in animal behavior, including her experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and offers practical advice for understanding and improving pet behavior. She also shares insights into the importance of play for cats, how to decode their body language, and her journey to becoming a social media sensation with her account, Annie Knows Animals.

The episode wraps up with must-have pet product recommendations and listener questions. Tune in for inspiring stories, expert advice, and creative ways to make your pet’s life extraordinary!

Special Guests:

• Cynthia Chomos, Founder of Catio Spaces
• Dr. Annie Valuska, Principal Scientist, Purina Pet Behavior Team

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Pacagen Room Spray
• Bissell Pet Stain Eraser

Q&A’s:

• “What are some fun ways to provide mental stimulation for my indoor cat?” (Lisa from Portland, OR)
• “What monthly preventatives should I be giving my pet to ensure they stay healthy?” (Mark from Charlotte, NC)

Related Links:

• Catio Spaces
• Annie Knows Animals on TikTok
• Purina Pet Behavior Team
• Gray Muzzle Organization

Social Channels:

• Follow Catio Spaces on Facebook & YouTube
• Follow Annie Knows Animals on Instagram & TikTok 
• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X & YouTube
• Follow DOGTV on Instagram, Facebook & X

Submit your questions to the podcast here

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

Celebrate the joy and enrichment that pets bring to our lives with this special episode!

 

38. Heroes and Advocates: Honoring Veterans and Protecting Pets

In this heartfelt Veterans Day episode, Kristen and Chris honor the brave men and women who served, spotlighting the role of service dogs in veterans’ lives and the importance of humane advocacy. Today’s guests include Shannon Walker, founder of Northwest Battle Buddies, who shares her journey providing life-saving service dogs to veterans with PTSD. Our second guest, Brad Pyle, Political Director of the Humane Society Legislative Fund, discusses how animal advocacy intersects with public policy and how listeners can support pro-animal legislation.

The episode wraps up with pet product recommendations and audience questions. Join us in celebrating the powerful bond between pets and their people on this special day of gratitude!

Special Guests:
Shannon Walker, CEO & Founder of Northwest Battle Buddies
Brad Pyle, Political Director of the Humane Society Legislative Fund

Pet Product Recommendations:
Healthy Paws Pet Insurance
Costco Kirkland Dental Chews

Q&A Topics:
“My dog seems to get stressed easily, especially around loud noises or when there’s a lot of activity at home. What are some effective ways to help a dog manage stress and feel more at ease?” (Jennifer from Denver, CO)
“I’ve heard a lot about microchipping for cats, but my cat is indoors-only. Is it still necessary to microchip her, and if so, what are the main benefits?” (Maria from San Diego, CA)
“As the weather gets colder, my two dogs seem unhappy being outside for long. What are some good options to keep them active and comfortable during the winter months?” (Tom from Minneapolis, MN)

Related Links:
Northwest Battle Buddies
Humane Society Legislative Fund
Shannon Walker’s TEDx Talk: PTSD and Service Dogs: Beneath The Surface

Social Channels:
Follow Northwest Battle Buddies on Instagram & Facebook
Follow the Humane Society Legislative Fund on Youtube & Facebook
Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X & YouTube

Follow DOGTV on Instagram, Facebook & X

Submit your questions to the podcast here. 

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

This episode is a tribute to those who serve and a reminder of the incredible bond between people and pets.