Pets Add Life

77. Senior Dog Grooming, Pet Health Tech & Tiny Heroes

This week, Kristen welcomes guest host Alex Sessa of Peach on a Leash for a summer-themed episode full of inspiring stories and expert insight. First, they speak with Angela Dinsmoor, senior dog groomer and founder of Grey Whiskers . Then, they sit down with Guilherme Coelho, Founder & CEO of Maven Pet to explore how AI and wearable tech are transforming veterinary care by detecting health signals before problems escalate. Plus, they celebrate heroic pets, new DOGTV moments, and share insightful Q&A with listeners.

Special Guests:

• Angela Dinsmoor — Founder, Grey Whiskers, https://www.greywhiskers.dog/
• Guilherme Coelho — Founder & CEO, Maven Pet (https://maven.pet) 

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Outward Hound Tail Teaser Flirt Pole
  
  
• TrueBlue Fresh Fur Cat Wipes:
  
  

Social Channels:

• Pets Add Life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife
  
  
• Dogs 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
  
  
• DOGTV Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dogtv
  
  
• DOGTV Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dogtv
  
  
• DOGTV X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/dogtv
  
  
• Peach on a Leash Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peachonaleash maven.pet+10Facebook+10peachonaleash.com+10Facebook+1
  
  
• Maven Pet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maven.pet
  
  
• Gray Whiskers Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/greywhiskerspet/
• https://www.greywhiskers.dog/

 

• Submit a Question: https://petsaddlife.org/podcast
  
  

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife
  
  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pets-add-life
  
  
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0f6yDwFz1ndmkt4cFzWVPY
  
  
• Or stream it on DOGTV’s FAST channel, Unleashed by DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed
  
  

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

 

76. Coral Reefs, Cloning Cats & Clear the Shelters

This week on Pets Add Life, Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati dive into a jam-packed summer episode filled with science, sustainability, and shelter adoptions. First up, Science Magazine editor and author David Grimm joins the show to discuss how pets became family, the science of cat behavior, and why your dog is legally more like a couch than a kid. Then, Tina Lundquist Faust of Houston PetSet shares real stories from the front lines of Houston’s stray dog crisis, and how legislation, adoption centers, and documentaries are helping create a movement. Plus, learn how Sheba cat food is rebuilding coral reefs in Hawaii, what’s happening during August’s Clear the Shelters month, and why pup-friendly dental chews and cat hydration supplements are game-changers.

Special Guests:

• David Grimm – Science Editor at Science Magazine & Author of Citizen Canine
  Website: https://www.davidhgrimm.com
  Book: Citizen Canine – https://a.co/d/ht4OhqY
  Blog: https://www.davidhgrimm.com/blog
  
  
  
• Tina Lundquist Faust – Co-President, Houston PetSet & Executive Producer of For the Animals
  Website: https://www.houstonpetset.org
  Documentary: For the Animals – https://www.routteoneproductions.org/for-the-animals
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/houstonpetset
  
  

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Purina Pro Plan Hydra Care (Feline Hydration Supplement): https://www.proplanvetdirect.com/hydra-care-feline-supplement?srsltid=AfmBOoqrw9f2-1vIKmYrKhdr-Vr-A6-MFCq2Nkgv5bQvYsXqJr2IvYkO
  
  
• Pup Gum Dental Chews by Spot & Tango: https://www.pupgum.com
  
  
• Ruffwear Summer Gear
• 
  
  

Q&A Topics:

• Sophia from Chicago, IL: “I want to switch my dog to a healthier food and avoid obesity—what should I ask my vet?”
  
  
• Olivia from Phoenix, AZ: “My cat has been vomiting occasionally and has diarrhea. Should I wait it out or go to the vet?”
  
  

Related Links:

• Clear the Shelters Adoption Campaign (NBC/Telemundo): https://www.cleartheshelters.com
  
  
• Sheba’s Coral Restoration Project: https://www.shebaconservation.com
  
  
• The Reef Builders Documentary: https://www.amazon.com/Reef-Builders/dp/B0C7FTF2Z1
  
  
• Association for Pet Obesity Prevention: https://petobesityprevention.org
  
  
• Spot & Tango: https://www.spotandtango.com
  
  
• Houston PetSet’s 6-Point Solution: https://www.houstonpetset.org/our-approach
  
  

Social Media & Submissions:

• Pets Add Life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife
  
  
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife
  
  
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife
  
  
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife
  
  
• Submit a Question: https://petsaddlife.org/podcast
  
  

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife
  
  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pets-add-life
  
  
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0f6yDwFz1ndmkt4cFzWVPY
  
  
• Or stream it on DOGTV’s FAST channel, Unleashed by DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed
  
  

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

75. Dog-Friendly Pools, Office Pets & Global Pet Wisdom

It’s the dog days of summer on Pets Add Life, and hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati are cooling things down with stories, science, and two powerhouse guests. First, Anna Webb—a UK-based canine behaviorist, nutritionist, and podcaster—joins to share her integrative approach to pet longevity, raw feeding, and what Brits are getting wrong about their anxious dogs. Then, Beth Bellanti of Tito’s Vodka reveals the heart behind their beloved Vodka for Dog People program, which has supported over 2,300 animal welfare orgs, rehomed 165+ distillery dogs, and helped make office dogs cool again. Plus, find out how to rent a private pool just for your dog, what APPA’s latest data says about cat people, and whether your senior pet needs new supplements or a joint-saving life jacket.

Special Guests:

• Anna Webb – Canine Behaviorist, Nutritionist & Host of A Dog’s Life Podcast
  Website: https://www.annawebb.co.uk
  Podcast: https://shows.acast.com/a-dogs-life
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annawebbdog
  
  
• Beth Bellanti – Program Director, Vodka for Dog People at Tito’s Handmade Vodka
  Website: https://www.titosvodka.com
  Vodka for Dog People: https://www.vodkafordogpeople.com
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vodkafordogpeople
  Tito’s Merch Store: https://store.titosvodka.com
  
  

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Ruffwear Cooling Gear & Summer Dog Essentials: https://ruffwear.com/pages/summer-gear
  
  
• Paws Aboard Dog Life Jackets (Amazon Store): https://amzn.to/40kdED2
  
  

Q&A Topics:

• Maria from Denver, CO: “My senior dog is stiff and struggles with stairs—are supplements or vet visits necessary?”
  
  
• David from Houston, TX: “Is a raw food diet safe for my dog, and how can I switch safely?”
  
  

Related Links:

• Swimply (Airbnb for Dog-Friendly Pools): https://www.swimply.com/pet-friendly
  
  
• Sniffspot (Rent Backyards for Dogs): https://www.sniffspot.com
  
  
• APPA’s National Pet Owners Survey: https://www.americanpetproducts.org/pubs_survey.asp
  
  
• Emancipet (Low-Cost Veterinary Services): https://www.emancipet.org
  
  
• Gentle Leader No-Pull Headcollar: https://www.petsafe.com/store/gentleleader
  
  
• Freedom Harness: https://www.2houndsdesign.com/freedom-no-pull-harness/
  
  

Social Media & Submissions:

• Pets Add Life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife
  
  
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife
  
  
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife
  
  
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife
  
  
• Submit a Question: https://petsaddlife.org/podcast
  
  

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife
  
  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pets-add-life
  
  
• Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/7fSD2aellZ3wpx8cIdH2DF?si=eda372227e75473d&nd=1&dlsi=9e48766f2f6942d0
  
  
• Or stream it on DOGTV’s FAST channel, DOGTV Unleashed: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed
  
  

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

74. Raw Food, Rescue Dogs & Bodega Cats

In this episode of Pets Add Life, Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati dive into everything from raw pet food myths to heroic shelter dogs and streetwise New York felines. First, Brian McDonnell of Oma’s Pride shares how his fourth-generation company is redefining pet nutrition with raw food, modern marketing, and authentic personalities. Then, best-selling author and canine search-and-rescue expert Susannah Charleson recounts her extraordinary career flying planes, finding missing persons with dogs, and helping rescues discover new purpose as service animals. Plus, the duo reveals how color-changing pee pads and AI collars are revolutionizing pet health—and NYC considers finally legalizing bodega cats!

Special Guests:

• Brian McDonnell – Director of E-Commerce at Oma’s Pride & Social Media Personality
  Website: https://www.omaspride.com
  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@omaspride
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omaspride
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-mcdonnell-b0b782103
  
  
• Susannah Charleson – NYT Bestselling Author of Scent of the Missing
  Website: https://www.susannahcharleson.com
  Books:
  – Scent of the Missing: https://www.amazon.com/Scent-Missing-Dogs-Lives-Saved/dp/0547422575
  – The Possibility Dogs: https://www.amazon.com/Possibility-Dogs-Rescue-Animals-Service/dp/054773493X
  – Where the Lost Dogs Go: https://www.amazon.com/Where-Lost-Dogs-Go-Companions/dp/0358298363
  
  

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Genius Pee Pads (color-changing to detect health issues): https://geniuslitter.com/products/genius-dog-pad
  
  
• Fi Series 3 Smart Collar (AI activity tracker & GPS): https://tryfi.com
  
  
• Virbac Epi-Otic Ear Rinse for Cats & Dogs: https://www.virbac.com/home/product-information/ear-care.html
  
  

Q&A Topics:

• Emma from Dallas, TX: “My cat has earwax buildup and scratches a lot. When should I take her to the vet?”
  
  
• Jake from Orlando, FL: “My dog pulls like crazy on walks. What tools and tips can help?”
  
  

Related Links:

• ASPCA Poison Control Hotline: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
  
  
• Pet Poison Helpline: https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com
  
  
• NYC Bill to Legalize Bodega Cats: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/08/nyregion/bodega-cats-legal.html
  
  
• Pet Obesity Prevention Tips: https://petobesityprevention.org
  
  
• Gentle Leader Headcollar: https://www.petsafe.com/store/gentleleader
  
  
• Freedom No-Pull Harness: https://www.2houndsdesign.com/freedom-no-pull-harness/
  
  

Social Media & Submissions:

• Pets Add Life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife
  
  
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife
  
  
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife
  
  
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife
  
  
• Submit a Question: https://petsaddlife.org/podcast
  
  

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife
  
  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pets-add-life
  
  
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0f6yDwFz1ndmkt4cFzWVPY
  
  
• Or stream it on DOGTV’s FAST channel, Unleashed by DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed
  
  

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

 

73. Dogs with Super Noses, Pet Industry Insights & Sailing Cats

 

In this globe-trotting and data-packed episode of Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati bring you stories of science, inspiration, and adventure. First up: Roy Ben-Tzvi, founder of The Wolf newsletter, shares his journey from startup founder to pet industry analyst and dives into trends like smart collars, pet supplements, and what makes pet businesses succeed. Then, children’s author and former biologist Stephanie Gibeault teaches us how dogs experience the world—and why butt sniffing is more polite than it seems. Plus, meet a cat who sailed the Pacific, and learn why dogs can smell your stress (and possibly your math anxiety).

Special Guests:

• Roy Ben-Tzvi – Founder of The Woof newsletter on pet business & investment
  Website: https://www.woofnews.co/
  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-woofnews/ 
• Stephanie Gibeault – Science Writer & Children’s Author of Dogs vs. Humans
  Website: https://www.stephaniegibeault.com
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephanie_gibeault
  
  

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Meowijuana's Meow-Jane Scent Enrichment Kit for Cats (13 herbal scents): https://www.meowijuanashop.com/products/meow-jane-scent-enrichment-kit
  
  
• PILL PALS Deodorant-Style Treat Paste for Dogs (makes pill-giving easy): https://www.chewy.com/pill-pals-dog-pill-hiding-treat/dp/899999
  
  

Q&A Topics:

• Sarah from Phoenix, AZ: “Is my dog overweight? What signs should I look for?”
  
  
• Mark from Denver, CO: “How can I tell if a trainer truly uses positive reinforcement?”
  
  

Related Links:

• The Woof Newsletter (Pet Industry & Investment):https://www.woofnews.co/
• Stephanie’s Book: Dogs vs. Humans (Available on Amazon or local bookstores)
  
  
• Association for Pet Obesity Prevention: https://petobesityprevention.org
  
  
• ASPCA Safe Herb List for Cats: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants
  
  
• The Dog Who Saved the Bees (Preorder): https://www.stephaniegibeault.com/dog-who-saved-the-bees
  
  
• Research: Dogs Detect Stress via Scent (NBC): https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/dogs-smell-stress-science-says-rcna50138
  
  

Social Media & Submissions:

• Pets Add Life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife
  
  
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife
  
  
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife
  
  
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife
  
  
• Submit a Question: https://petsaddlife.org/podcast
  
  

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife
  
  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pets-add-life
  
  
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0f6yDwFz1ndmkt4cFzWVPY
  
  
• Or stream it on DOGTV’s FAST channel, DOGTV Unleashed: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed
  
  

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

72. The Cone of Shame, Pet Pros & Pets with Paws

In this dynamic episode of Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati spotlight trailblazers in veterinary care and the pet business world. First up is beloved veterinarian Dr. Andy Roark, creator of the “Cone of Shame” podcast and founder of the Uncharted Veterinary Conference. Dr. Roark discusses how humor, empathy, and education fuel his mission to support vets and pet parents alike. Then, Nancy Hassel, founder of American Pet Professionals and host of “Digging Into the Pet Industry,” shares tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, networking insights, and why now is a golden age for the pet biz. Plus, we learn how to tell if your dog is left- or right-pawed, discuss pet allergies, and offer practical pet dental advice from Dr. Roark himself.

Special Guests:

• Dr. Andy Roark – Veterinarian, Speaker, Creator of Cone of Shame, Founder of Uncharted Veterinary Conference
  Website: https://drandyroark.com
  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drandyroark
  Podcast: https://drandyroark.com/cone-of-shame-podcast

• Nancy Hassel – Founder of American Pet Professionals, Host of Digging Into the Pet Industry
  Website: https://americanpetprofessionals.com
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyhassel
  Podcast: https://americanpetprofessionals.com/podcast

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Wigzi Dual Doggie Retractable Leash (tangle-free walking for two dogs): https://www.wigzi.com/collections/leashes/products/dual-doggie

• Catit Creamy Ice Pop Silicone Tray (make summer treats for cats): https://www.catit.com/shop/product/catit-ice-pop-silicone-mold/

Q&A Topics:

• David from Seattle: Tips for helping a pet safely lose weight without just cutting food

• Sarah from Denver: How to prevent dental disease in pets if brushing isn’t realistic

Related Links:

• VCA Article on Allergies in Dogs: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/allergies-in-dogs

• Learn About Left- or Right-Pawed Pets: https://www.sidewalkdog.com/is-your-dog-left-or-right-pawed

• Dr. Andy Roark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drandyroark

• American Pet Professionals on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanpetpros

Social Media & Submissions:

• Pets Add Life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife

• Submit a Question: https://petsaddlife.org/podcast

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pets-add-life

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0f6yDwFz1ndmkt4cFzWVPY

• Or stream it on DOGTV’s FAST channel, DOGTV Unleashed: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

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

71. Guardian Dogs, Animal Intuition & Fourth of July Pet Safety

In this heartfelt and insightful episode of Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati explore the healing power of animal companionship. First, U.S. Marine veteran and author Karl Riemensperger shares the inspiration behind his beloved “Gunner Goes” children’s book series—based on the real-life adventures of his rescued Labrador, Gunner. Then, pet psychic and animal communicator Danielle MacKinnon joins the show to explain how we can all learn to communicate with animals and deepen the soul-level bond with our pets.

Special Guests:

• Karl Riemensperger, Author of Gunner Goes Series

• Danielle MacKinnon, Animal Communicator & Pet Psychic

Pet Product Recommendations:

• K&H Pet Cooling Water Bowl (keeps water cold for 15+ hours): https://www.khpet.com/products/k-h-coolin-pet-bowl

• Woof Bite-N-Brush Dental Chew Toy: https://www.woof.com/products/bite-n-brush

Q&A Topics:

• “What’s a subtle sign that two cats are actually getting along?” (George from Oklahoma City, OK)

• “I just adopted a horse—what’s the best daily care routine?” (Evan from Lexington, KY)

Related Links:

• Gunner Goes book series & plush: https://www.gunnergoesseries.com

• Gunner Goes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gunnergoes

• Florida Retriever Rescue: https://www.flretrieverrescue.org

• Danielle MacKinnon's Website: https://www.daniellemackinnon.com

• Danielle MacKinnon's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@daniellemackinnon

• K&H Cooling Bowl Product Page: https://www.khpet.com/products/k-h-coolin-pet-bowl

• Woof Pet Products: https://www.woof.com

Social Media & Submissions:

• Pets Add Life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petsaddlife

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PetsAddLife

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@petsaddlife

• Submit a Question: https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Watch or Listen Every Tuesday:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PetsAddLife

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pets-add-life

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0f6yDwFz1ndmkt4cFzWVPY

• Or stream it on DOGTV’s FAST channel, DOGTV Unleashed: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

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

70. Training Superdogs, Pet Parties & the Happy Cat Hotel

This week on Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati close out Pet Anxiety Awareness Month and ring in the summer with high-energy guests, expert training tips, and a big dose of fun. First, dog trick trainer and America’s Got Talent finalist Sara Carson of The Super Collies shares how she went from outcast teen to international performer and founder of the Pupper App. Then, Gary George, event promoter and co-founder of Barcshella, dishes on launching the first music festival just for dogs and their humans.

Special Guests:

• Sara Carson, Dog Trainer, Performer & Founder of The Super Collies & Pupper App

• Gary George, Event Promoter & Co-founder of Barcshella

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Petmate Crates (for safe zones & travel): https://www.petmate.com

• Inaba Churu Treats & Toppers: https://www.inabafoods.com/collections/churu-puree-for-cats

Q&A Topics:

• “My 9-year-old daughter wants a bunny for her birthday. What should we consider?” (Submitted by Angela from Portland, OR)

• “My German Shepherd has been really gassy lately. How do I fix this?” (Submitted by Danielle from Chicago, IL)

Related Links:

• Sara Carson’s Training App: https://pupper.com

• The Super Collies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesupercollies

• Petmate Crates: https://www.petmate.com

• Inaba Churu Cat Treats: https://www.inabafoods.com/collections/churu-puree-for-cats

• Barkshella Event Details:  https://www.barkchella.com/

• The Happy Cat Hotel & Spa: https://www.happycathotelandspa.com

• DOGTV’s Unleashed Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

• Watch The Experts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DOGTV

Social Channels:

• Follow The Super Collies on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesupercollies

• Follow Barcshella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barkchellanj/https://www.instagram.com/barcshella

• Follow Pets Add Life on Instagram: https://instagram.com/petsaddlife

• Facebook: https://facebook.com/PetsAddLife

• YouTube: https://youtube.com/petsaddlife

• TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@petsaddlife

• X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/petsaddlife

Subscribe & Listen:
New episodes every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

Submit Your Questions to the Podcast:
https://petsaddlife.org/podcast

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