Pets Add Life

69. Behavior Breakthroughs: Tackling Dog Anxiety with Dr. Lisa Radosta & Alex Sessa

This week on the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati dig into dog anxiety and behavior with two powerhouse guests. First, board-certified veterinary behaviorist Dr. Lisa Radosta shares her insights from over two decades of clinical experience. She explains how a pet’s environment, education, and positive support can transform even the most fearful animals. Then, dog trainer and founder of Peach on a Leash, Alex Sessa, reveals her top techniques for building great habits early—and correcting behaviors like jumping and barking with kindness, not force.

Special Guests:

• Dr. Lisa Radosta, Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist & Founder of Florida Veterinary Behavior Service
  
  
• Alex Sessa, Dog Trainer & Founder of Peach on a Leash Dog Training
  
  

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Reconcile (FDA-approved medication for separation anxiety): https://www.reconcile.com
  
  
• Dr. Buzby’s ToeGrips (for senior dog traction support): https://toegrips.com
  
  

Q&A Topics:

• “My dog becomes extremely anxious during thunderstorms. How can I calm him down?” (Submitted by Michelle from Austin, TX)
  
  
• “My puppy gets overly excited when greeting guests. How do I teach calmer greetings?” (Submitted by Jason from Charlotte, NC)
  
  

Related Links:

• Florida Veterinary Behavior Service: https://flvetbehavior.com
  
  
• Dr. Lisa Radosta’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DrLisaRadosta
  
  
• Peach on a Leash Dog Training: https://peachonaleash.com
  
  
• Reconcile Medication Overview: https://www.reconcile.com
  
  
• Dr. Buzby’s ToeGrips for Senior Dogs: https://toegrips.com
  
  
• The Experts: Dog Anxiety Episode (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@DOGTV
  
  
• Watch The Experts on DOGTV’s Unleashed Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed
  
  
• Pet Anxiety Awareness Month Resources: https://www.petliving.com/anxiety
  
  

Social Channels:

• Follow Dr. Lisa Radosta on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlisaradosta
  
  
• Follow Peach on a Leash on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peachonaleash
  
  
• 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

 

68. The Science of Dog Anxiety: Expert Advice from Victoria Stilwell & Dr. Nicholas Dodman

This week on Pets Add Life, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati dive deep into canine anxiety with two of the most respected experts in animal behavior. First, world-renowned dog trainer Victoria Stilwell discusses the power of positive reinforcement, signs of stress in dogs, and how to help rescue pets adjust to their new homes. Then, pioneering veterinary behaviorist Dr. Nicholas Dodman shares breakthrough insights into the causes of anxiety, natural treatments, and what science says about helping dogs feel safe and calm.

Special Guests:

• Victoria Stilwell, Dog Trainer, Author & Founder of the Victoria Stilwell Academy

• Dr. Nicholas Dodman, Professor Emeritus at Tufts University & President of the Center for Canine Behavior Studies

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Sherpa Airline-Approved Soft Pet Carrier: https://www.amazon.com/Sherpa-Travel-Original-Approved-Carrier/dp/B0006G54OU

• Nationwide Pet Insurance: https://www.bestpetinsuranceever.com

Q&A Topics:

• “My Border Collie has started chasing his tail and licking obsessively when I’m away. Is this anxiety?” (Submitted by Mark from Seattle, WA)

• “My rescue dog gets extremely anxious when I leave. How do I use desensitization and counterconditioning?” (Submitted by Rachel from Portland, OR)

Related Links:

• Victoria Stilwell Academy: https://www.vsdogtrainingacademy.com

• Positively by Victoria Stilwell (Courses & Resources): https://www.positively.com

• Center for Canine Behavior Studies: https://dogstudies.org

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

• The Experts (YouTube Playlist): https://www.youtube.com/@DOGTV

• Best Pet Insurance (Nationwide): https://www.bestpetinsuranceever.com

• Sherpa Carriers (Official Site): https://www.sherpapet.com

Social Channels:

• Follow Victoria Stilwell on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoriastilwell

• Follow DOGTV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dogtv

• 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

67. Service Dogs, Disability Advocacy & Adopt-a-Cat Month

In this powerful and heartwarming episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati celebrate the start of Pet Anxiety Awareness Month and Adopt-a-Cat Month with two inspiring stories. First, Jamie Simpson, founder of New Life Working Dogs and Embrace Everyday, shares her journey living with epilepsy and training her own life-saving service dog, Echo. Then, Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society, joins the show to discuss the No-Kill 2025 movement, how to get involved in your community, and the latest collaboration with DOGTV’s The Adoption Show.

Special Guests:

• Jamie Simpson, Founder of New Life Working Dogs & Embrace Everyday

• Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Frisco Scratching Ball & Triangle Post (via Chewy): https://www.chewy.com/frisco-scratching-ball-triangle-post/dp/9000003321

• Doggy Hush Noise-Canceling Dog Earmuffs: https://www.doggyhush.com

Q&A Topics:

• “Is it safe for my indoor cat to explore the backyard?” (Submitted by Emily from Portland, OR)

• “My dog gets anxious from construction next door. What can I do to help?” (Submitted by Michael from Long Island, NY)

Related Links:

• Embrace Everyday: https://embraceeveryday.com

• Embracing Echo on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/embracing.echo

• Best Friends Animal Society: https://bestfriends.org

• Best Friends Lifesaving Dashboard: https://bestfriends.org/no-kill-2025/animal-shelter-statistics

• DOGTV’s The Adoption Show (Unleashed Channel): https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed

• Pet Anxiety Awareness Month: https://www.petliving.com/anxiety

• Pet Anxiety Special Episode of The Experts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DOGTV

Social Channels:

• Follow Jamie Simpson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/embracing.echo

• Follow Best Friends on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestfriendsanimalsociety

• 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

66: Canine Cognition and Healing After Pet Loss

In this episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati explore the incredible ways dogs think and feel, starting with Dr. Brian Hare, renowned Duke professor and founder of the Duke Canine Cognition Center. Then, they speak with certified grief counselor Beth Bigler about coping with the emotional journey of pet loss and how to find healing through remembrance. From the science of canine intelligence to tools for grief support, this episode is packed with heartfelt insights and helpful advice for every pet parent.

Special Guests:

• Dr. Brian Hare, Professor of Evolutionary Anthropology, Psychology, and Neuroscience at Duke University; Co-founder, Duke Canine Cognition Center; Author of The Genius of Dogs, Survival of the Friendliest, and Puppy Kindergarten
  
  
• Beth Bigler, Certified Pet Loss Grief Counselor; Founder of Honoring Our Animals; Author of Honoring Our Animals: 365 Meditations for Healing After Pet Loss
  
  

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Wolfie’s Wish Pet Loss Grief Cards and Support Decks: https://wolfieswish.com
  
  
• Outward Hound Orbee-Tuff Puzzle Feeder: https://outwardhound.com
  
  

Q&A Topics:

• “My dog keeps scratching and licking his paws. Could it be allergies?” (Submitted by Samantha from Chicago, IL)
  
  
• “My cat is drinking more water than usual and urinating frequently. Could this be a sign of a health issue?” (Submitted by James from Chicago, IL)
  
  

Related Links:

• Brian Hare Official Website: https://www.brianhare.net
  
  
• Duke Canine Cognition Center: https://evolutionaryanthropology.duke.edu/research/dogs
  
  
• The Genius of Dogs Book: https://www.amazon.com/Genius-Dogs-Smarter-Think/dp/0142180467
  
  
• Survival of the Friendliest Book: https://www.amazon.com/Survival-Friendliest-Understanding-Origins-Rediscovering/dp/0399590668
  
  
• Honoring Our Animals Website: https://honoringouranimals.com
  
  
• Honoring Our Animals Book: https://a.co/d/dkejWIp
  
  
• Scarlett Johansson & Ocean the Pitbull (via The Dodo): https://www.thedodo.com
  
  
• Association for Pet Obesity Prevention: https://petobesityprevention.org
  
  
• Body Condition Score Chart: https://petobesityprevention.org/pet-weight-check
  
  

Social Channels:

• Follow Honoring Our Animals on Instagram: https://instagram.com/honoringouranimals
  
  
• 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

65. Fighting Pet Cancer, Saving Shelter Pets & Smart Toothbrushes for Dogs

This week on the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati tackle two powerful topics: pet cancer awareness and national animal shelter strategies. Dr. Victoria Carmella of the Animal Cancer Foundation joins the show to discuss her groundbreaking work in comparative oncology, pet nutrition, and preventive health. Then, Christa Chadwick, Vice President of Shelter Services at the ASPCA, sheds light on their nationwide relocation efforts, shelter medicine outreach, and kitten nurseries that are transforming outcomes for thousands of pets each year.

Plus, Chris and Kristen share updates on parasite prevention trends and the incredible story of a kangaroo loose on an Alabama highway—and yes, it’s 100% real.

Special Guests:

• Christa Chadwick, CAWA, Vice President of Shelter Services, ASPCA
  
  
• Dr. Victoria Carmella, Veterinarian and Board Member, Animal Cancer Foundation
  
  

Pet Product Recommendations:

• BiteBlock Finger Toothbrush System by Paw Ready: https://pawready.com/products/biteblock-dog-toothbrush
  
  
• Earth Rated Pet Grooming Wipes: https://www.earthrated.com/products/pet-grooming-wipes/
  
  

Q&A Topics:

• “Why does my dog eat grass? Is it something I should be concerned about?” (Submitted by Emily from Denver, CO)
  
  
• “How often should I bathe my dog to keep their coat healthy without overdoing it?” (Submitted by Samantha from Hoboken, NJ)
  
  
• Bonus Voicemail: “How to reduce separation anxiety in my young Queensland Heeler?” (Voicemail submitted by Shelly from Oregon)
  
  

Related Links:

• ASPCA: https://www.aspca.org
  
  
• ASPCA Pro (for shelter professionals): https://www.aspcapro.org
  
  
• Animal Cancer Foundation: https://www.acfoundation.org
  
  
• Canine Cancer Genome Project: https://www.acfoundation.org/what-we-do/comparative-oncology/genome-project/
  
  
• Rescue Effect Campaign by ASPCA: https://www.aspca.org/rescueeffect
  
  

Social Channels:

• Follow ASPCA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aspca
  
  
• Follow Animal Cancer Foundation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/animalcancerfoundation
  
  
• Follow Pets Add Life on 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
  
  
• X (formerly Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/petsaddlife
  
  

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

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

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

 

64. Celebrity Spotlight – Amber Marshall from "Heartland" at Global Pet Expo!

Special guest co-host Dr. Courtney Campbell joins Kristen Levine for an unforgettable episode featuring actress and animal advocate Amber Marshall, star of the hit CBC series "Heartland." Recorded live from the Global Pet Expo in Orlando, Florida, Amber shares her inspiring journey from veterinary assistant to beloved television star, blending her passions for acting and animals.

Amber Marshall's authentic portrayal of Amy Fleming on "Heartland" isn't just acting—it's a reflection of her real life on her Alberta ranch, caring for horses, dogs, cats, and more. In this special conversation, Amber reveals the personal impact animals have had on her life and career, her advocacy work with the Canadian Animal Assistance Team, and the exciting launch of her partnership with innovative pet brand Killarney Pet Crates.

Join us as Amber discusses:

• Her lifelong passion for animals and how they've shaped her professional and personal growth.
  
  
• The magical behind-the-scenes moments from two decades of filming "Heartland."
  
  
• Her grandmother’s inspiring journey into horsemanship at age 80.
  
  
• How animals help keep the set of "Heartland" calm and authentic.
  
  
• The launch of her stylish and practical pet crate collaboration with Killarney Pet Crates.
  
  

Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation, packed with inspiration, animal advocacy, and insights into the unique connection between people and pets.

Links & Resources from this Episode:

• Amber Marshall Official Instagram:
  https://www.instagram.com/amber_marshall_farm/
  
  
• Killarney Pet Crates (coming soon!):
  https://www.killarneycrates.com (Website launching soon, follow Amber’s Instagram for updates!)
  
  
• Canadian Animal Assistance Team (CAAT):
  https://www.caat-canada.org
  
  
• "Heartland" Official Website:
  https://www.cbc.ca/heartland
  
  

Stay Connected with Pets Add Life:
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

63. Celebrating Dog Moms & Pet Care Innovations

In this special Mother's Day edition of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati celebrate the joy of pet parenthood and explore the cutting edge of pet care innovation. From startup trends and veterinary accessibility to heartwarming dog mom moments, this episode offers expert insights and practical advice for pet lovers everywhere. Tune in as we hear from Rachel Sheppard of Leap Venture Studio and Chrissy Joy & Amber Aquart from DOGTV’s hit show The Dog Moms.

Special Guests:

• Rachel Sheppard, Director of Ventures at Mars Petcare & Leap Venture Studio
  
  

• Chrissy Joy & Amber Aquart, Hosts of The Dog Moms on DOGTV
  
  

Pet Product Recommendations:

• Dog Off-It Furniture Protection: https://dogoffit.com
  
  

• Fussie Cat Premium Market Fresh (Tuna-Forward Cat Food): https://fussiecat.com
  
  

Q&A Topics:

• “As a new dog owner, I'm curious about the best ways to keep my home clean and odor-free, especially with shedding and the occasional mess. Any tips?” (Submitted by Sarah from Lexington, KY)
• “I've noticed my dog occasionally eats grass during our walks. Is this normal behavior, and should I be concerned? ” (Submitted by Emily from Denver, CO)

 

Related Links:

• Leap Venture Studio: https://www.leapventurestudio.com
  
  

• DOGTV’s The Dog Moms: https://www.dogtv.com/thedogmoms
  
  

• AAHA Vaccine Guidelines: https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/vaccination-canine-configuration/vaccination-recommendations-for-general-practice-table/
  
  

• AKC 2024 Most Popular Dog Breeds: https://www.akc.org/most-popular-breeds
  
  

Social Channels:

• Follow Rachel Sheppard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelsheppardmba/
  
  

• Follow Chrissy Joy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechrissyjoy
  
  

• Follow Amber Aquart on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberaquart
  
  

• Follow Whiskey Toller on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskeytoller
  
  

• Follow Pets Add Life on 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
  
  

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

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

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

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

62. From Fitness to Philosophy — Pet Innovation, Global Adventures & Smart Vet Tech

This week on Pets Add Life, Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati are back with another epic episode featuring stories that stretch across the globe — from lost cats and curious seals to tech-powered vet clinics and cutting-edge enrichment gear.

Storytime Highlights:

• A California cat named Aggie miraculously survives wildfires and reunites with her family after months apart.
  
  
• A New Haven seal named Chappy captures local hearts before passing due to plastic ingestion and intestinal torsion.
  
  

Guest 1: Jamie Popper (Founder of Proper Pets) Certified canine fitness trainer and inventor of the Propel Air platform, Jamie shares:

• Her horseback safari in Botswana
  
  
• The development of canine fitness tools that strengthen the bond between dogs and humans
  
  
• Training products designed for both beginners and experts
  
  

 Learn more about Jamie:

• Instagram (Proper Pets): https://www.instagram.com/proper.pets
  
  
• Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/popper.jamie
  
  
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiepopper
  
  

Featured Product: Propel Air Platform
Proper Pets’ inflatable training platform for canine balance and stability.
Official Website: https://properpets.com

Guest 2: Dr. Aaron Massecar (VP of Partnerships at Kova)
From philosopher to vet-tech visionary, Dr. Massecar discusses:

• His transition from academia to animal health
  
  
• The future of AI-assisted veterinary care through Kova (medical scribing & co-pilot tools)
  
  
• Innovations that save vets time while enhancing patient care
  
  
• Emotional reflections on saying goodbye to his 16-year-old dog, Charley
  
  

Connect with Dr. Massecar:

• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-massecar/
• Kova Website: https://www.withkova.com
  
  

Products of the Week:

1. Comprehensive Cat Gut Health Check
   From Innovative Pet Lab — a diagnostic kit to test your cat’s digestive function and recommend vet-backed solutions.
   💻 Website: https://www.innovativepetlab.com
   
   
2. Chewtastic Geometrics by Pet Dreamhouse
   Rubber enrichment toys co-designed with an aerospace scientist for erratic bouncing and treat-stuffing.
   💻 Product Link: https://www.petdreamhouse.co.uk/products/chewtastic-geometrics
   
   

 Audience Q&A:

• Alex from Austin, TX – How to turn your dog into a social media star
  
  
• Taylor from Seattle, WA – Tips for smoothly introducing a 4th cat to your feline crew
  
  

Want Your Question Answered on the Show?
Submit yours at: https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

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
  
  

New Episodes Every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube
Presented by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV.