The Pets Add Life Podcast

135. Pet Fire Safety, Shelter Makeovers & Wild Tales from the Vet Clinic

In this episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the people, places, and everyday decisions that can make life safer and better for our pets. From transforming an animal shelter and preparing pets for a home emergency to understanding the essential role veterinary technicians play behind the scenes, this episode combines practical advice with inspiring stories from the pet community.

Story Time features:
Chris shares the story of Helen Woodward Animal Center’s annual Puppy Prom, a creative fundraiser that brings pets and their people together in formal attire, contests, and plenty of fun while raising money to support animals and programs at the Center.

Kristen highlights a recent study exploring how dogs respond to human facial expressions. Using brain imaging with awake dogs, researchers found evidence that dogs process different human emotional expressions differently—including a distinct response to happy faces—adding to our understanding of how closely dogs pay attention to human emotions.

Special Guests:
Art Edmonds, Host & Executive Producer of Home for Good

Art takes listeners behind the scenes of Home for Good, the renovation series airing on ABC stations nationwide that celebrates first responders, veterans, and other community heroes. He shares how the show transformed key areas of PAWS Atlanta, one of Metro Atlanta’s longstanding no-kill shelters, and explains why improving the shelter’s animal intake area could make a meaningful difference for both incoming pets and the people caring for them.

Art also shares important pet fire and emergency preparedness advice, including creating an evacuation plan, preparing a pet go-bag with medications, food and important records, making sure first responders know pets are inside the home, and never re-entering a burning building to rescue a pet yourself.

Walter Brown, Veterinary Technician, Content Creator & Wild Tails Cast Member

Walter “Skinni Go Live” Brown returns to the podcast to talk about DOGTV’s original series Wild Tails and why sharing the real experiences of veterinary technicians is so important. He discusses the vital role vet techs play in animal care, the chemistry between the Wild Tails cast, and how humor, communication and understanding pet parents can make a difference inside the veterinary clinic.

Pet Product Recommendations:
TRIXIE Snuffle Mat Level 1 Enrichment Interactive Feeding Game – https://www.chewy.com/trixie-snuffle-mat-level-1-enrichment/dp/1290686

Petco Glow in the Dark Pet Jacket – https://www.petco.com/product/petco-glow-in-the-dark-pet-jacket-x-small-4715046

Q&A Topics:
We recently got our first guinea pig, and I’m worried he might get lonely when no one is home. Are guinea pigs happier living with another guinea pig, and what should a new owner know before introducing a companion? (Submitted by Michelle from Raleigh, NC)

My cat is really anxious and hides whenever we have visitors or if there’s a change in the house. How can you tell the difference between a naturally shy cat and a cat that’s genuinely struggling with anxiety? And what can we do to help her feel safer? (Submitted by Daniel from Brooklyn, NY)

Related Links:
Home for Good – https://www.kidde.com/safety-hub/home-safety/home-for-good

PAWS Atlanta – https://www.pawsatlanta.org

Wild Tails on DOGTV – https://watch.dogtv.com/wild-tails

Helen Woodward Animal Center – https://animalcenter.org

Helen Woodward Animal Center Puppy Prom – https://animalcenter.org/puppy-prom-2026/

Walter “Skinni Go Live” Brown on DOGTV – https://www.dogtv.com

American Pet Products Association (APPA) – https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV – https://www.dogtv.com

Pets Add Life – https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Walter “Skinni Go Live” Brown (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/skinnigolive/

Walter “Skinni Go Live” Brown (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@skinnigolive

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/c/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

134. Wild Tails: Veterinary Adventures, Costa Rica & Caring for Pets in an Emergency

In this special episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine go behind the scenes with members of DOGTV’s Wild Tails for an unforgettable look at life in veterinary medicine. Geoffrey van Zijl, Peter Carlos and Sarah Parsons share stories from their recent veterinary mission to Costa Rica, where the team provided spay and neuter procedures, wellness care and treatment to hundreds of animals in communities with limited access to veterinary services. Plus, the episode explores preparing for unexpected veterinary expenses, pet first aid, emergency warning signs and some unique products for reptiles and small pets.

Story Time features:
Kristen discusses the financial reality of unexpected veterinary emergencies and why pet parents should plan ahead for potentially significant medical expenses through emergency savings, pet insurance or other financial resources.

Chris highlights Ollie’s State of Dogs 2026 report, which found encouraging improvements in several measures of canine health among dogs in its data, including weight, activity, dental health and overall wellness.

Special Guests:
Geoffrey van Zijl, Veterinary Professional & Wild Tails Cast Member

Peter Carlos, Veterinary Professional & Wild Tails Cast Member

Sarah Parsons, Veterinary Professional & Wild Tails Cast Member

The Wild Tails team takes listeners behind the scenes of its veterinary mission to Costa Rica, including performing more than 100 spay and neuter procedures, providing wellness and medical care, treating tick-borne illnesses, working alongside local veterinary professionals and adapting to challenging conditions in remote communities. They also share some of the funny, emotional and unforgettable moments from the journey—and explain how the experience renewed their passion for veterinary medicine.

Pet Product Recommendations:
Zylafen Topical Spray for Reptiles – https://zymox.com/zylafen-topical-spray/

Full Cheeks Small Pet Top Entry Travel Carrier – https://www.petsmart.com/small-pet/harnesses-and-travel-carriers/travel-carriers/full-cheeks-small-pet-top-entry-travel-carrier-68150.html

Q&A Topics:
Every pet owner hopes they’ll never need it, but if something happens at home before we can get to the veterinarian, what are some basic first-aid steps every pet parent should know? And are there things people commonly do that can actually make the situation worse? (Submitted by David from Denver, CO)

My dog has gotten into things a couple of times, and it’s always difficult to know what’s a true emergency and what can wait until our regular veterinarian opens. What are the biggest warning signs that mean, “Don’t wait—go to the emergency vet right now”? (Submitted by Jennifer from Columbus, OH)

Related Links:
Wild Tails on DOGTV: https://watch.dogtv.com/wild-tails

Ollie – State of Dogs 2026: https://www.ollie.com/obsession-overview/

ZYMOX / Zylafen: https://zymox.com

PetSmart: https://www.petsmart.com

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
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

133. Back to School: Classroom Pets, Dog Grooming & Helping Pets Adjust to Change

In this special Back to School episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore how animals can enrich education, why grooming is an important part of a dog’s overall health, and how pets fit into the changing routines that come with a new school year. From classroom pets and service dogs to at-home grooming and canine agility, this episode is full of practical advice and inspiring stories about the many ways animals add to our lives.

Story Time features:
Chris shares the heartwarming story of Savannah and her beloved rooster, Frog, who would walk her to the school bus each morning and return to the end of the driveway to greet her when she came home—a reminder that powerful human-animal bonds extend far beyond dogs and cats.

Kristen recognizes National Service Dog Month and the extraordinary role trained service dogs play in supporting people with disabilities. She also offers an important back-to-school reminder for children: when you encounter a working service dog at school, don’t pet, call to, or distract the dog while it’s doing its job.

Special Guests:
Jess Rona, Celebrity Dog Groomer, Author, Educator & Founder of Jess Rona Grooming

Melinda Thomas, Executive Director, Pet Care Trust & Pets in the Classroom

Pet Product Recommendations:
FURminator Undercoat deShedding Tool – https://www.furminator.com/products/deshed/dog.aspx

Kurgo Dog Backpacks – https://www.kurgo.com/dog-backpacks

Q&A Topics:
My Goldendoodle’s coat seems to get matted almost overnight, especially behind her ears and under her legs. I brush her regularly but still end up having to shave her down every few months. What am I doing wrong, and how can I keep her coat healthy between grooming appointments? (Submitted by Sarah from Charlotte, NC)

I have a two-year-old Border Collie with endless energy who loves learning new tricks. We’re both complete beginners, but I’m thinking about trying agility. Is agility something any dog can enjoy, and what’s the best way to get started without overwhelming them? (Submitted by Ben from Portland, OR)

Related Links:
Jess Rona: https://www.jessrona.com

Jess Rona Grooming: https://www.jessronagrooming.com

Pets in the Classroom: https://petsintheclassroom.org

Pet Care Trust: https://petcaretrust.org

Pets in the Classroom Grant Program: https://petsintheclassroom.org/grant-app/

Canine Companions: https://canine.org

The Pet Innovation Lab: https://www.dogtv.com

FitPAWS: https://fitpawsusa.com

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Jess Rona Grooming (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/jessronagrooming

Jess Rona Grooming (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@jessronagrooming

Pets in the Classroom (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petsintheclassroom

Pets in the Classroom (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/PetsintheClassroom

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

132. Red Light Therapy, Smarter Veterinary Care & Helping Pets Live Healthier Lives

In this episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore emerging approaches to pet wellness while separating useful information from the myths and misinformation pet parents encounter every day. From red and near-infrared light therapy to preventive veterinary care, healthy weight, and knowing when a pet needs emergency attention, this episode is packed with ideas for helping animals live healthier, happier lives.

Story Time features:
Chris shares a fascinating new study examining “allogrooming”—the behavior of cats grooming one another—and how researchers are discovering that licking between cats may not always be purely affectionate or social.

Kristen highlights progress in Massachusetts on pet-friendly housing legislation. Senate Bill 3028 would prohibit state-aided public housing facilities from discriminating against pets solely based on breed, size, weight, or appearance, while establishing additional protections and reasonable requirements for pet ownership.

Special Guests:
Jackie Jolie, Founder, AnimaSol & Animal Wellness Educator

Dr. Emily King, Veterinarian, Founder of All-Star Veterinary Clinic & Co-Host of The Veterinary Roundtable Podcast

Pet Product Recommendations:
UV Black Light Flashlight for Pet Urine Detection – https://www.amazon.com/s?k=UV+flashlight+pet+urine+detection

Honest to Goodness Upcycled Horse Treats – https://www.honest2goodness.com/pages/upcycled-horse-treats

Q&A Topics:
My dog gets extremely jealous whenever I give attention to another pet and will actually push his way between us. Do dogs really experience jealousy, and what’s the best way to handle it without making one pet feel left out? (Submitted by Amanda from Nashville, TN)

My cat is incredibly affectionate with me but hides whenever anyone else comes to visit. Is that simply her personality, or is there a way to help a shy cat become more comfortable and confident around new people? (Submitted by Rachel from Columbus, OH)

Related Links:
AnimaSol: https://animasol.com

All-Star Veterinary Clinic: https://all-starvet.com

The Veterinary Roundtable Podcast: https://www.veterinaryroundtable.com

Massachusetts Senate Bill 3028 – An Act Promoting Pet Equity, Treatment and Safety: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S3028

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
AnimaSol (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/anima__sol/

AnimaSol (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@animasol_life

Dr. Emily King (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/dremilyking

The Veterinary Roundtable (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/theveterinaryroundtable/?hl=en

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

131. Separation Anxiety, Pet Enrichment & Supporting the Vets Who Care for Our Pets

In this episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore how changes in the family routine can affect our pets—and what we can do to make the transition easier. From helping dogs adjust when kids return to school to understanding enrichment and emotional well-being, the episode is packed with practical advice for happier pets. The hosts also take a closer look at the veterinary profession, including burnout, career flexibility, and how pet parents can better support the people who care for their animals.

Story Time features:
Chris shares an important warning from the Better Business Bureau about scammers targeting people searching for lost pets. He discusses ways pet parents can protect themselves, including microchipping pets, withholding identifying details that can be used to verify a legitimate finder, and never sending money without confirming that someone actually has the missing animal.

Kristen shares the heartwarming story of Enzo, a 160-pound deaf and blind Mastiff who visits Carmel Elementary School in Maine as a therapy dog. Students read to Enzo during library time, creating a supportive, judgment-free environment that can help young readers feel more comfortable and confident.

Special Guests:
Emily Strong, Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Co-Owner of Pet Harmony & Co-Author of Canine Enrichment for the Real World

Dr. Ashley Hopkins, Veterinarian, Founder & CEO of Hopper Vets & Career Coach with Vet Candy

Pet Product Recommendations:
KONG Wobbler – https://www.kongcompany.com/wobbler/

Dog Splash Pad – https://www.petco.com

Q&A Topics:
My kids are heading back to school soon, and I’m worried because our dog got so used to having everyone home all summer. What can we do now to help prevent separation anxiety before the school year starts? (Submitted by Jennifer from Charlotte, NC)

We recently adopted a puppy, but our resident cat isn’t exactly thrilled with the new addition. What are some of the best ways to help cats and dogs learn to live together peacefully and safely? (Submitted by David from Portland, OR)

Related Links:
Pet Harmony: https://petharmonytraining.com

Emily Strong: https://petharmonytraining.com/emily-strong/

Canine Enrichment for the Real World: https://petharmonytraining.com/resources/pet-harmony-resources/

Hopper Vets: https://hoppervets.com

Vet Candy: https://www.myvetcandy.com

Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker: https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker

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:
Pet Harmony (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/petharmonytraining

Pet Harmony (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/petharmonytraining

Hopper Vets (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/hoppervets

Vet Candy (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/myvetcandy

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

130. Smarter Dogs, Spay & Neuter Solutions & Understanding Animal Intelligence

In this fascinating episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore smarter, healthier ways to care for pets while taking a deeper look at how animals think, communicate, and connect. From expanding access to affordable spay and neuter services to discovering the extraordinary ways dogs experience the world, this episode combines practical animal welfare solutions with fascinating insights into animal intelligence and behavior.

Story Time features:
Chris shares a story about the continued animal rescue and recovery efforts following devastating earthquakes, highlighting veterinarians, volunteers, and search-and-rescue dogs working to locate, treat, and reunite animals with their families.

Kristen introduces Dobby, an unusual black rescue kitten whose rare genetic traits include four ear flaps, a curled tail, and an underbite. After his story went viral, the once difficult-to-place kitten became an adoption sensation.

Special Guests:
Brianna Lovell Myers, Executive Director, United Spay Alliance

Jennifer S. Holland, Science & Nature Writer, Former National Geographic Senior Staff Writer & New York Times Bestselling Author of Unlikely Friendships and Dog Smart

Pet Product Recommendations:
Suitical Recovery Suit for Dogs – https://www.suitical.com/products/recovery-suit-dog

TiCK MiTT – https://tickmitt.com

Q&A Topics:
My dog follows me everywhere—even into the bathroom—and always wants to be in the same room. Is that simply affection, or can being overly attached be a sign of anxiety? (Submitted by Jessica from Austin, TX)

Why does my cat suddenly get a burst of energy at night and start racing around the house? Why do cats get the “zoomies,” and should owners do anything to help them burn off that energy? (Submitted by Michael from Chicago, IL)

Related Links:
United Spay Alliance: https://www.unitedspayalliance.org

United Spay Alliance Spay/Neuter Referral Directory: https://www.unitedspayalliance.org/state-local/program-locator-map/

United Spay Alliance Online Conference: https://www.unitedspayalliance.org/online-conference/

Jennifer S. Holland Official Website: https://www.jenniferhollandwriter.com

Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence: https://www.jenniferhollandwriter.com/dog-smart

Unlikely Friendships: https://www.jenniferhollandwriter.com/unlikely-friendships

Kitty Cat Haven & Rescue: https://kittykathavenrescue.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:
United Spay Alliance (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/unitedspayalliance

United Spay Alliance (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/UnitedSpayAlliance

Jennifer S. Holland (Facebook – Unlikely Friendships): https://www.facebook.com/UnlikelyFriendships

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

129. Pet Nutrition, Cooperative Care & Building Healthier Habits for Pets

In this informative episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore smarter approaches to pet nutrition, weight management, training, and everyday care. From a proposed New Jersey tax credit for pet expenses and an important summer tick warning to expert guidance on healthy feeding and stress-free grooming, this episode offers practical ways to support pets’ physical and emotional well-being.

Story Time features:
Kristen discusses a proposed New Jersey tax credit that would allow eligible pet owners to claim up to $300 for everyday pet expenses and up to $600 for qualifying veterinary costs.

Chris shares an important summer reminder that flea and tick preventatives do not eliminate every risk. He explains why pet parents should continue performing careful tick checks, including between their pets’ toes, after outdoor activities.

Special Guests:
Dr. Megan Sprinkle, Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionist & Head of Veterinary Affairs, Golden Child

Dr. Deb Jones, Dog Trainer, Psychologist, Author & Cooperative Care Educator

Pet Product Recommendations:
EzyDog Crosscheck Harness –

Digital Pet Food Measuring Scoop Scale – https://www.amazon.com/Measuring-Electronic-Removable-Weighing-Suitable/dp/B0DM97CY7W

Q&A Topics:
I’ve watched countless training videos online, but my dog still doesn’t respond consistently. How can owners tell whether their home training is effective, and what common mistakes might they be making? (Submitted by Mark from Columbus, OH)

My cat becomes stressed by even minor changes, including visitors, rearranged furniture, and groceries entering the home. Why are some cats so sensitive to change, and how can owners help them feel more secure? (Submitted by Jennifer from Seattle, WA)

Related Links:
Golden Child: https://mygoldenchild.com

Dr. Megan Sprinkle (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/sprinklemc

Dr. Deb Jones – K9 in Focus: https://k9infocus.com

Cooperative Care Certificate: https://cooperativecarecertificate.com

Fenzi Dog Sports Academy: https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com

Cooperative Care: Seven Steps to Stress-Free Husbandry: https://www.amazon.com/Cooperative-Care-Seven-Stress-Free-Husbandry/dp/0578423138

New Jersey Assembly Bill A4995: https://pub.njleg.state.nj.us/Bills/2026/A5000/4995_I1.HTM

Association of American Feed Control Officials: https://www.aafco.org

National Animal Supplement Council: https://www.nasc.cc

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:
Dr. Megan Sprinkle (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/sprinklemc

Dr. Deb Jones – Cooperative Care with Deb Jones (YouTube): 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLdrsXsstUUTcTdWS21pZVA

Golden Child (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/mygoldenchild

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

128. Celebrating International Cat Day: Cat Behavior, Catification & Creating Happier Cats

In this special International Cat Day episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine celebrate everything cats. They explore feline health, behavior, enrichment, and home design with two of the world’s leading cat experts while sharing practical tips to help cats live healthier, happier lives.

Story Time features:
Chris shares practical ways to help indoor cats stay cool during hot summer weather, including hydration tips, cooling mats, wet food, and creating a more comfortable indoor environment.

Kristen discusses new research from the University of Liverpool showing why regular veterinary checkups for middle-aged and senior cats are essential, highlighting the importance of early detection of dental disease, joint problems, and heart conditions.

Special Guests:
Dr. Mikel Delgado, Certified Cat Behavior Consultant, Researcher & Co-Author of Total Cat Mojo

Kate Benjamin, Founder of Housepanther, Cat Design Expert & Co-Author of Catification and Catify to Satisfy

Pet Product Recommendations:
Petlibro Dockstream Cordless Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain
https://petlibro.com/collections/dockstream

K&H Pet Products Coolin’ Pet Pad
https://khpet.com

Q&A Topics:
How can you tell the difference between a cat that’s simply relaxed versus one that’s bored or lacking mental stimulation? (Submitted by Emily from Minneapolis, MN)

Why does a cat continue scratching furniture even when scratching posts are available, and how can owners encourage better scratching habits? (Submitted by Melissa from San Diego, CA)

Related Links:
DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com

Housepanther: https://www.housepanther.com

Dr. Mikel Delgado: https://whatyourcatwants.com

Total Cat Mojo: on Amazon

Catification: 

On Amazon

Catify to Satisfy: 

On Amazon

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Dr. Mikel Delgado (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/mikel.delgado/?hl=en

Kate Benjamin (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/hauspanther/

Hauspanther (Website): https://www.housepanther.com

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

127. Dog Parks, Community Connections & How Pets Bring People Together

In this episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the powerful ways pets help create friendships, strengthen communities, and improve our lives. From the surprising social impact of dog parks to a brand-new DOGTV game show and a bestselling novel inspired by canine companionship, this episode celebrates the unique bond between pets and people.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares the story of Arizona’s Desert Mountain Club, where an unexpected amenity—the community dog park—has become the club’s greatest social gathering place, bringing neighbors together more effectively than golf courses, restaurants, or fitness facilities.

Chris shares a simple homemade frozen popsicle recipe for dogs using bananas, blackberries, peanut butter, yogurt, and a Milk-Bone treat as the popsicle stick—a fun and healthy way to help dogs stay cool during the summer.

Special Guests:
Harrison Forbes, Pet Expert, Animal Advocate & Host of DOGTV’s So You Think You Know Pets?

Camille Perri, Bestselling Author of Social Animals

Pet Product Recommendations:
Pet Adobe Elevated Cooling Dog Bed

Wander Dog Splash-Free Travel Water Bowl 

Q&A Topics:
What are the best snake species for first-time reptile owners, and what common mistakes should beginners avoid? (Submitted by Olivia from Phoenix, AZ)

What are the most important things every new aquarium owner should know to keep fish healthy and maintain a thriving tank ecosystem? (Submitted by Ethan from Tampa, FL)

Related Links:
DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com

So You Think You Know Pets?: https://www.dogtv.com

Camille Perri: https://www.camilleperri.com

Social Animals (Penguin Random House): https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/814444/social-animals-by-camille-perri/

Daily Paws (Homemade Dog Popsicles): https://www.dailypaws.com

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Harrison Forbes (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/harrisonforbes

Camille Perri (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/camilleperri

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

126. National Adoption Week, Shelter Success Stories & Finding Your Perfect Pet

In this special National Adoption Week episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine celebrate the incredible progress being made in animal welfare while sharing inspiring stories from the front lines of pet adoption and rescue. From lifesaving transport flights and shelter innovations to practical advice for first-time adopters, this episode is dedicated to helping more pets find loving homes and helping families find the perfect companion.

Story Time features:
Kristen shares encouraging new shelter data showing that the national shelter save rate has reached 82.5%, while cat save rates have climbed to an all-time high of 82.9%. She also explains what it means for a shelter to achieve “no-kill” status and highlights the growing momentum behind lifesaving efforts across the country.

Chris shares the story of 135 research beagles that successfully found forever homes through the efforts of the Beagle Freedom Project, demonstrating how collaboration between research organizations and animal advocates can create positive outcomes for animals.

Special Guests:
Cassie Davidson, Vice President of Marketing, Communications & PR, Humane Society of North Texas, and Vice President of Marketing, Wings of Rescue

April Huntsman, Senior Director of Adoption Experience, Adopt a Pet

Pet Product Recommendations:
Bissell Little Green Portable Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner – https://www.bissell.com/little-green-portable-carpet-cleaner-3369.html

Oxbow Enriched Life Play Table for Small Pets – https://oxbowanimalhealth.com/product/enriched-life-play-table/

Q&A Topics:
What are the most important factors families should consider before adopting their first dog to ensure it’s the right fit for their lifestyle? (Submitted by Amanda from Phoenix, AZ)

Are adult shelter cats harder to adjust to than kittens, and how can new owners help adopted cats feel safe and comfortable in their new home? (Submitted by Brian from Boston, MA)

Related Links:
Humane Society of North Texas: https://www.hsnt.org

Wings of Rescue: https://www.wingsofrescue.org

Adopt a Pet: https://www.adoptapet.com

Beagle Freedom Project: https://bfp.org

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

American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org

DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com

Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

Social Channels:
Humane Society of North Texas (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/humanesocietyntx

Wings of Rescue (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/wingsofrescue

Adopt a Pet (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/adoptapet

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