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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
Tuesday Dec 02, 2025
Tuesday Dec 02, 2025
In this fun and informative episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine chat about inspiring pet stories, exciting upcoming events, and expert dog training advice. From fostering kittens to improving communication with your canine, this episode explores the joy of connection between pets and their people.
Story Time features:
Chris shares a New York story about Abdul Rahim, a man who has fostered hundreds of kittens since the pandemic—revealing the around-the-clock dedication it takes to bottle-feed, nurture, and raise young kittens in need.
Kristen discusses the growing rise of “pet prenups” as more couples plan ahead for their furry family members. She explains how new laws are recognizing pets as companions rather than property and how joint pet custody agreements are becoming common across the U.S.
Special Guests:
Eric Udler, Founder & President of Super Pet Expo
Michael Hill, Owner & Lead Trainer, Michael Hill Dog Training
Pet Product Recommendations:
Himalayan Dog Chew Advent Calendar – https://amzn.to/3X0EBcV
Ruffwear Sun Shower Dog Raincoat – https://a.co/d/05dkfqS
Q&A Topics:
My dog listens perfectly at home but ignores me at the park—how can I train him to focus with distractions? (Submitted by Ben from Austin, TX)
My cat keeps meowing loudly at night even though she’s fed and healthy—what could be causing this, and how can I help her settle down? (Submitted by Melissa from Chicago, IL)
Related Links:
Super Pet Expo: https://www.superpetexpo.com
Michael Hill Dog Training: https://www.michaelhilldogtraining.com
DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.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
Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
In this festive Thanksgiving episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine share gratitude, laughter, and expert advice for keeping pets happy and safe during the holidays. From falling acorns to falling iguanas, and mindful connection to mindful eating, this episode celebrates the joy pets bring into our lives every day.
Story Time:
Chris warns pet parents about the recent rise in dogs swallowing acorns—posing serious health risks and even requiring surgery in some cases.
Kristen shares the heartwarming story of Emmy the Labrador, who visits her neighbor every day to ring a special nose-level doorbell for a treat, reminding us how much dogs love routine, friendship, and community.
Special Guests:
Michael Burke, Author of Intuitive Animal Communication: Co-Create a Meaningful Life and Deep Connection with Animals
Dr. Mark Freeman, Clinical Associate Professor of Community Practice at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine
Pet Product Recommendations:
Nite Ize NightHowl LED Safety Necklace – https://amzn.to/43xKhyF
ChomChom Roller Pet Hair Remover – https://a.co/d/eTuX5S9
Q&A Topics:
Thanksgiving food safety tips for dogs and how to prevent overfeeding during the holidays (Submitted by Anna from Nashville, TN)
How to keep pets calm and comfortable when hosting large gatherings (Submitted by Grace from Charlotte, NC)
Related Links:
Michael Burke Official Site: https://michaelrburke.com/
Intuitive Animal Communication (Book): https://michaelrburke.com/intuitive-animal-communication-book/
Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine: https://vetmed.vt.edu
Holiday Hazards Guide (Virginia Tech): https://news.vt.edu/articles/2024/12/vetmed-pet-holiday-safety.html
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
Tuesday Nov 18, 2025
Tuesday Nov 18, 2025
In this heartfelt episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the emotional side of pet ownership—from coping with loss to deepening our connection with the dogs we love. Together, they share moving stories, expert advice, and practical tools to strengthen the human-animal bond.
Story Time features:
Kristen shares a quirky seasonal story about Florida’s “falling iguanas” phenomenon and how cold weather can cause reptiles to literally drop from trees—reminding pet owners to stay alert during chilly southern nights.
Chris recounts a headline-grabbing story from the London Pet Show Live, where the event collapsed due to fraud and mismanagement—offering a behind-the-scenes reminder that successful pet expos like Global Pet Expo take immense dedication and expertise.
Special Guests:
Renee Talbott Author of Unleash Your Grief: The Truth About Pet Loss
Maggie Marton, Author of For the Love of Dog: The Ultimate Relationship Guide for You and Your Dog
Pet Product Recommendations:
Pride + Groom “The Mane Tame” Dry Shampoo for Dogs – https://prideandgroom.com/products/the-mitt-kit
Wowowo Dog Backpack Carrier – https://amzn.to/3WOrift
Q&A Topics:
How to litter train a newly adopted shelter cat and understand feline behavior (Submitted by Carlos from Austin, TX)
How to register a dog as a service animal and determine if they’re a good candidate (Submitted by Janelle from Columbus, OH)
Related Links:
Unleash Your Grief: https://www.unleashyourgrief.com
For the Love of Dog: https://www.maggiemarton.com
Neighborhood Pets: https://www.neighborhoodpetscle.org
K9s for Warriors: https://www.k9sforwarriors.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:
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
Tuesday Nov 11, 2025
Tuesday Nov 11, 2025
In this powerful Veterans Day edition of the Pets Add Life Podcast, host Chris Bonifati is joined by guest co-host Tori Mistick for an inspiring conversation on service, healing, and the human-animal bond. Together they explore how pets bring comfort to veterans, how community programs keep pets in loving homes, and how new tools are saving lives.
Story Time features:
Tori shares a moving story about her Labrador, Lucy, volunteering at the Southwestern Veterans Center in Pittsburgh and discovering that simple acts of presence can be the purest form of service.
Chris highlights Love Lost, an AI-driven app created by Petco Love to reunite lost pets with their owners through image matching and community alerts.
Special Guests:
Becca Britton, Founder & Executive Director, Neighborhood Pets Outreach and Resource Center
Wyatt Haines, Chief Canine & Business Officer, K9s for Warriors
Pet Product Recommendations:
Oxbow Apple Twig Tree (for rabbits, guinea pigs & chinchillas) – https://oxbowanimalhealth.com/product/enriched-life-apple-twig-tree/
Pup O’Clock Family Subscription Box (for kids & dogs) – https://pupoclock.com
Q&A Topics:
My senior dog was recently diagnosed with cancer – how can I extend his life and keep his quality of life high? (Submitted by Elena from San Diego, CA)
I just adopted a rabbit – what are the basics for housing, diet, and social interaction? (Submitted by Megan from Portland, OR)
Special Offer:
DOGTV is offering 2 hours of free calming content for dogs this holiday season — no sign-up required. Visit https://watch.dogtv.com and search for “Paws & Relax.”
Related Links:
Neighborhood Pets: https://www.neighborhoodpetscle.org
K9s for Warriors: https://www.k9sforwarriors.org
Petco Love Lost App: https://lost.petcolove.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:
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
Tuesday Nov 04, 2025
Tuesday Nov 04, 2025
In this enriching episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, host Chris Bonifati is joined by guest co-host Tori Mistick as they dive into new trends in pet enrichment, a surprising Gen Z reptile boom, and the emotional power of the human-animal bond.
Story Time features:
Tori shares the inspiring story of Chaser, the “smartest dog in the world,” who learned over 1,000 words.
Chris breaks down findings from the 2025 APPA Fish & Reptile Report, including the loyalty of fish and reptile owners to independent retailers and the rise of reptiles among Gen Z pet owners.
Special Guests:
Kristen Combs
Director of Communications at Visit Knoxville and author of 100 Things to Do in Knoxville Before You Die, Kristen shares her top pet-friendly recommendations in Tennessee's nature-loving capital, from the Ijams Nature Center and paddleboarding to dog-friendly breweries and events.
Visit Knoxville: https://www.visitknoxville.com
Pet-Friendly Knoxville: https://www.visitknoxville.com/things-to-do/pet-friendly/
Kristen's Guide: https://www.instagram.com/100thingsknoxville
Andy Bond
Co-founder & CEO of BestyBnB, a tech platform revolutionizing crisis pet fostering. Andy explains how BestyBnB helps survivors of domestic violence and others in crisis by safely housing their pets while maintaining total anonymity — ensuring pets and people can reunite when it’s safe.
BestyBnB Website: https://www.mybestybnb.com
Home Away from Home Initiative: https://www.azpetproject.org/
Learn how to get involved or become a pet caregiver: https://auth.bestybnb.com/Account/FinishSignUp
Pet Product Recommendations:
Wonderfold W4 Pet Stroller Wagon (for dogs up to 300 lbs!): https://wonderfold.com/collections/pet-strollers-collection/products/pxl-large-pet-stroller-wagon
Zoo Med’s Lizard Ladder (mesh climbing accessory for reptiles): https://a.co/d/6jrRhBW
Q&A Topics:
Tina from Austin asks about unique weekend activities with her dog — Tori suggests exploring dog sports like barn hunt and agility.
Daniel from Seattle wants to mentally enrich his indoor cat — Chris explains how to simulate hunting behavior with vertical spaces and movement-based toys.
Special Holiday Freebie:
DOGTV is offering 10 hours of free calming content for dogs this holiday season — no sign-up required. Download the DOGTV app and search for “Paws & Relax.”
Related Links:
Visit Knoxville: https://www.visitknoxville.com
BestyBnB: https://www.mybestybnb.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
Tuesday Oct 28, 2025
Tuesday Oct 28, 2025
In this special National Cat Day episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, host Chris Bonifati is joined again by guest co-host Harrison Forbes for a feline-focused celebration. The duo share hilarious and heartwarming cat stories, from Boston’s “Bike Path Cat Mayor” to the expressive felines of the New York Pet Fashion Show. They’re then joined by the one and only Jackson Galaxy, the world-famous “Cat Daddy” and host of My Cat from Hell. Jackson shares how he went from musician to cat behaviorist, discusses enriching feline environments through “catification,” and highlights the incredible work of the Jackson Galaxy Project. Later, the hosts welcome Dr. Matthew Gray, President & CEO of the Healthy Trade Institute, who explains his organization’s groundbreaking national reptile and amphibian adoption program and its mission to ensure disease-safe, ethical pet trade practices.
Special Guests:
- Jackson Galaxy, Cat Behaviorist, Author & TV Host
- Dr. Matthew Gray, President & CEO, Healthy Trade Institute
- Harrison Forbes, Dog Behavior Expert & Co-Host
Pet Product Recommendations:
- Mrs. Meyer’s Pet Stain & Odor Remover – https://www.mrsmeyers.com
- Scout’s Honor Pet Stain & Odor Eliminator – https://www.skoutshonor.com/
- IKEA Cat Scratch Wraps (Jute Furniture Protectors) – https://www.ikea.com
Q&A Topics:
- Cat waking owners at 4 a.m. for food – setting boundaries and using automatic feeders (Submitted by Laura from Denver, CO)
- Introducing a new kitten to an older cat (Submitted by Marcus from Tampa, FL)
Related Links:
- Jackson Galaxy Official Site: https://www.jacksongalaxy.com
- The Jackson Galaxy Project (via Greater Good Charities): https://greatergood.org/jackson-galaxy
- Books: Catification & Catify to Satisfy – available at https://www.jacksongalaxy.com
- Healthy Trade Institute (HTI): https://healthytrade.org
- University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine: https://vetmed.tennessee.edu
- DOGTV Unleashed FAST Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed
- Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org
Social Channels:
- Jackson Galaxy (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/thecatdaddy
- Jackson Galaxy (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@JacksonGalaxy
- Healthy Trade Institute (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/healthytradeinstitute
- Healthy Trade Institute (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/healthytradeinstitute
- 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 (X): https://www.twitter.com/petsaddlife
Submit a question to the podcast:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast
Presented by: American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV
Tuesday Oct 21, 2025
Tuesday Oct 21, 2025
In this educational and heart-warming episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, Chris welcomes special guest co-host Harrison Forbes, renowned dog trainer and animal behavior expert, while Kristen takes a week off. Together they explore three essential aspects of modern pet parenting—from staying safe at home to celebrating the science behind our bond with animals. First, Dr. Renee Schmid from the Pet Poison Helpline shares the most common household toxins that endanger pets (from chocolate and xylitol to supplements and cleaners) and what to do if an emergency occurs. Then, Dr. Rustin Moore of The Ohio State University discusses his groundbreaking book Unleashing the Bond, detailing how interacting with pets improves our physical and emotional health while highlighting the responsibilities that come with this connection. The hosts also dive into today’s dog-friendly amenities, products, and practical pet-care questions every pet parent can use.
Special Guests:
- Dr. Renee Schmid, Senior Veterinarian, Pet Poison Helpline
- Dr. Rustin Moore, Dean of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine & Author of Unleashing the Bond
- Harrison Forbes, Dog Behavior Expert & Co-Host
Pet Product Recommendations:
- BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus Vacuum Cleaner – https://www.bissell.com
- Home Lure Coursing Kit (for high-energy dogs) – https://www.chewy.com (search “lure coursing kit”)
Q&A Topics:
- How to teach loose-leash walking without harsh tools (Submitted by Dana from Seattle, WA)
- Dog barking at every sound—how to reduce reactivity (Submitted by Ben from Denver, CO)
Related Links:
- Pet Poison Helpline: https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com
- Unleashing the Bond by Dr. Rustin Moore (Otterbein Press): https://www.rustinmooredvm.com/unleashingthebond
- The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine: https://vet.osu.edu
- DOGTV Paws & Relax Info: https://www.dogtv.com
- Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org
Social Channels:
- Pet Poison Helpline (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/petpoisonhelpline
- Dr. Rustin Moore (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/rustin-moore-85a024107/
- 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 (X): https://www.twitter.com/petsaddlife
Submit a question to the podcast:
https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast
Presented by: American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV
Tuesday Oct 14, 2025
Tuesday Oct 14, 2025
In this jam-packed episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati explore authenticity, advocacy, and innovation in the pet world. First, they chat with Pamela Kennison, founder of Dogs Review Stuff, a growing review site and TikTok community where real dogs test and rate products—no paid fluff, just honest insights from pups of every size. Then, Mike Bober, President & CEO of the Pet Advocacy Network, returns to the show to discuss key policy efforts shaping the future of pet ownership, from pet-friendly housing and HSA reform to the annual Pet Week on Capitol Hill. Finally, Carla Ng from Earthbath joins to celebrate the company’s 30-year anniversary and share how the brand continues to lead in natural, eco-friendly pet grooming with biodegradable formulas, sustainable packaging, and a passion for giving back.
Special Guests:
- Pamela Kennison, Founder of Dogs Review Stuff
- Mike Bober, President & CEO of Pet Advocacy Network
- Carla Ng, Marketing Manager at Earthbath
Pet Product Recommendations:
- DIY Puzzle Feeders using household items (water bottle treat toy, toilet-paper roll snack tube, muffin-tin puzzle, snuffle mat)
- Hilde & Phil Cat Scratching End Table – https://hilde-phil.com
Q&A Topics:
- How to help a dog with separation anxiety when left alone (Submitted by Carlos from Austin, TX)
- What to do if your dog goes missing – first steps and search strategies (Submitted by Laura from Portland, OR)
Related Links:
- Dogs Review Stuff: https://dogsreviewstuff.com
- Pet Advocacy Network: https://petadvocacy.org
- Pet Week on Capitol Hill info: https://petadvocacy.org/events
- Earthbath: https://earthbath.com
- DOGTV Unleashed: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed
- Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org
Social Channels:
- Dogs Review Stuff (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@dogsreviewstuff
- Dogs Review Stuff (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/dogsreviewstuff
- Pet Advocacy Network (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petadvocacynetwork
- Pet Advocacy Network (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/petadvocacynetwork
- Earthbath (Instagram):https://www.instagram.com/earthbath_pet/
- Earthbath (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/earthbath/
- 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 (X): https://www.twitter.com/petsaddlife
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.