Pets Add Life

In this episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine continue their coverage from Global Pet Expo 2026. They explore new research on dog ownership trends, fascinating discoveries about ancient canine evolution, and conversations with two industry leaders helping shape the future of pet products. From sustainability and responsible sourcing to the power of authentic storytelling and video marketing, this episode offers valuable insights for pet parents, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals alike. Story Time features: Chris shares findings from APPA’s latest State of the Industry Report, revealing that 53% of U.S. households now own a dog—an increase representing approximately 4 million additional dog-owning homes since 2024. Kristen highlights new research showing that dogs displayed remarkable diversity in size and skull shape more than 11,000 years ago, challenging the long-held belief that most breed diversity originated only in recent centuries through selective breeding. Special Guests: Jim Lamancusa, Executive Director, Pet Sustainability Coalition Greg Rollett, Marketing Strategist, Head of Video at The Grommet & Startup Pavilion Host, Global Pet Expo Pet Product Recommendations: World’s Best Cat Litter Health Check-In – https://www.worldsbestcatlitter.com JoJo Modern Pets Natural Dog Chews & Toys – https://jojomodernpets.com Q&A Topics: Best ways to keep a dog mentally stimulated, including puzzle toys, snuffle mats, enrichment games, and DIY feeding activities. (Submitted by Kevin from Boston, MA) How to balance being a loving pet parent without becoming a pushover, while using positive reinforcement to encourage better behavior. (Submitted by a Global Pet Expo attendee) Related Links: Pet Sustainability Coalition: https://www.petsustainability.org The Grommet: https://www.thegrommet.com Global Pet Expo: https://www.globalpetexpo.org American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org DOGTV: https://www.dogtv.com Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org Social Channels: Pet Sustainability Coalition (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/pet-industry-sustainability-coalition/ The Grommet (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/thegrommet 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

In this special live episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine kick off the 10th annual Pet Anxiety Awareness Month. Joined by two leading experts in animal behavior and veterinary medicine, the conversation explores the causes of fear, stress, and anxiety in pets, how these conditions affect physical and emotional well-being, and what pet parents can do to help their dogs and cats live more confident, comfortable lives. Story Time features:Chris shares the heartwarming story of a woman who adopted a cat to help with her own mental health, only to discover that her new feline companion struggled with anxiety too. Together, they helped each other heal, highlighting the powerful bond between pets and people. Kristen reflects on the inspiration behind Pet Anxiety Awareness Month, sharing the story of her beloved dog Buck and how his battle with separation anxiety led her to create a nationwide awareness campaign dedicated to helping pet parents recognize and treat anxiety-related conditions. Special Guests:Debbie Martin, Licensed Veterinary Technician, Veterinary Technician Specialist (Behavior), Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner & Elite Fear Free Certified® Professional Dr. Kiona Williams, Veterinarian, Chewy Vet Care & Fear Free Certified Professional Pet Product Recommendations:Calmer Canine – https://assisi.zomedica.com/products/calmer-canine/ Chuckit! Launchers & Fetch Toys – https://www.chuckit-toys.com DOGTV – https://www.dogtv.com Reconcile – https://www.reconcile.com SecureDog & SecureCat Pheromone Products www.securebysigns.com/us/products/securedog Fresh Patch – https://www.freshpatch.com Ease Pet Vet – https://easepetvet.com Atomic Bubbles – https://atomicbubbles.com Q&A Topics:My dog seems perfectly happy when we're together, but the moment I leave the house he starts barking, whining, and sometimes destroys things. How can I tell if this is true separation anxiety, and what are the best steps to help him feel more comfortable being alone? (Submitted by Jessica from Charlotte, NC) My cat has been licking himself so much that he's starting to lose hair. We've ruled out skin issues and fleas. Could this be anxiety, and what can I do to help? (Submitted by Lizzy via YouTube Live) Related Links:Pet Anxiety Awareness Month: https://petanxietyawareness.com Fear Free Pets: https://fearfreepets.com Chewy Vet Care: https://www.chewy.com/b/vet-care-17377 DOGTV Understanding Pet Anxiety Special: https://www.dogtv.com Ease Pet Vet: https://easepetvet.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

In this fascinating episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the future of pet nutrition, the science of evolution, and innovative approaches to preventative pet health. From sustainable insect-based proteins to feline evolution and longevity medicine, this episode highlights how science and technology continue shaping the future of pet care. Story Time features: Kristen shares the story of a former software engineer who helped transform his dog’s health through insect-based nutrition, leading to the creation of a new pet food ingredient company focused on buffalo mealworm protein as a sustainable and highly palatable dietary supplement. Chris explores the growing challenge facing the pet food industry: balancing environmentally sustainable ingredients with increasing consumer demand for premium, human-grade pet nutrition. Special Guests: Dr. Jonathan Losos, Evolutionary Biologist & Author of The Cat’s Meow Dr. Henry Yoo, Veterinarian & Executive Consultant, Infinity Medical Consulting Pet Product Recommendations: Oneisall Smart Automatic Feeder for Two Cats – https://oneisall.com Barkly Retractable Dog Leash with Personal Safety Alarm – https://mybarkly.com/ Q&A Topics: My dog seems incredibly smart and learns words quickly. How do scientists actually measure canine intelligence? (Submitted by Mark from Columbus, OH) My son recently got a betta fish. What size tank and type of environment does a betta fish really need to stay healthy and happy? (Submitted by Laura from San Diego, CA) Related Links: The Cat’s Meow by Dr. Jonathan Losos: https://global.oup.com Planet Paws: https://www.planetpawsmedia.com Infinity Medical Consulting: https://www.infinitymedicalconsulting.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

In this engaging episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, recorded live from Global Pet Expo, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the growing demand for transparency in pet nutrition, the importance of mental enrichment for pets, and how technology is reshaping modern pet care. From FDA labeling updates to smart feeders and interactive puzzle toys, this episode highlights the exciting evolution of the pet industry and the people driving it forward. Story Time features: Chris shares emerging FDA efforts to improve transparency and labeling standards in pet food, as more pet parents demand clearer ingredient information, stronger nutritional claims, and science-backed product messaging. Kristen reflects on the inspiring work of Brother Wolf Animal Rescue following Hurricane Helene, encouraging pet lovers to consider fostering animals through local shelters and rescue organizations to help save more lives. Special Guests: Nina Ottosson, Dog Trainer & Creator of Interactive Puzzle Toys Roundtable Guests: Anna Marie Mossa, Co-Founder, LootPaw Alexander Figueroa, Co-Founder, Lootpaw Pet Product Recommendations: Catstages Infinity Ball Track & Puzzle Feeders LootPaw GPS & Behavioral Tracker – https://www.lootpawpets.com/ Q&A Topics: There are so many different types of cat litter — clay, crystal, natural — how do I choose the best one for my cat and my home? (Submitted by David from Atlanta, GA) My dog gets bored and destructive at home — how much mental stimulation do dogs really need, and what are easy ways to provide it? (Submitted by Brian from Seattle, WA) Related Links: Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Puzzle Toys: https://outwardhound.com Brother Wolf Animal Rescue: https://www.bwar.org Lootpaw Smart Pet Ecosystem: https://www.lootpawpets.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

In this powerful and inspiring episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, recorded live from Global Pet Expo, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore major industry trends, heroic rescue efforts, and the life-changing impact of service animals. From the growing spotlight on cats to stories of resilience and community, this episode highlights how pets continue to transform lives in meaningful ways. Story Time features:Chris shares a major trend from Global Pet Expo: cats are officially having their moment, with cat-focused products selling out faster than ever and brands investing more thoughtfully in feline-specific innovation. Kristen highlights the incredible work of Project K-9 Hero, an organization dedicated to supporting retired military and police working dogs, ensuring they receive the care and recognition they deserve after their service. Special Guests:Jamie Simpson, Service Dog Advocate & Content Creator Leah Craig, Executive Director, Brother Wolf Animal Rescue Pet Product Recommendations:Petmate Chuckit! Dog Launcher & Cat Cooling Mat – https://www.petmate.com PetSport Dog Toys & Rope Toys – https://www.petsport.com Q&A Topics:My dog pulls on walks and makes it stressful — how can I train loose leash walking without using harsh methods? (Submitted by Jason from Denver, CO) My indoor cat seems bored — what are the best ways to keep them mentally stimulated and engaged? (Submitted by Ethan from Portland, OR) Related Links:Project K-9 Hero: https://projectk9hero.org Brother Wolf Animal Rescue: https://www.bwar.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

In this engaging spring episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the importance of pet fitness, the emotional benefits of pet ownership for older adults, and the growing movement toward pet-inclusive travel and housing. With expert insights and real-world trends, this episode highlights how pets continue to shape our lifestyles, health, and communities. Story Time features:Kristen highlights National Canine Fitness Month, encouraging pet parents to go beyond daily walks and incorporate strength, enrichment, and mental stimulation activities to improve their dog’s overall health and longevity. Chris shares findings from the University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging, showing that 83% of adults over 50 say their pets give them a sense of purpose — while also noting that cost remains a major barrier to pet ownership for many seniors. Special Guests:Luis Zamora, Co-Founder, PetsVivo Dr. Angela Lennox, Avian & Exotic Animal Veterinarian Pet Product Recommendations:IKEA Lurvig Cat Scratching Mat – https://www.ikea.com FitPAWS Canine Fit Bone – https://fitpawsusa.com Q&A Topics:My dog is terrified of loud noises like thunderstorms and fireworks — how can I help him cope with these fears? (Submitted by Mark from Denver, CO) My indoor cat suddenly started scratching furniture despite having a scratching post — why is this happening and how can I redirect the behavior? (Submitted by Olivia from Portland, OR) Related Links:PetsVivo / Pet Compass: https://www.petsvivo.com Association of Avian Veterinarians: https://www.aav.org Fear Free Certified Practices: https://fearfreepets.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

In this insightful and entertaining episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore emerging pet health technology, unusual animal behaviors, and the growing need for trustworthy veterinary information. From body composition innovation and snake safety to expert advice on fear-free care and online pet myths, this episode delivers both practical guidance and eye-opening insights for modern pet parents. Story Time features:Kristen shares a fascinating look at Dexa scanning technology and how it could revolutionize how veterinarians measure pet body composition — offering a more accurate alternative to traditional weight and visual assessments as pet obesity continues to rise. Chris highlights a bizarre but real pet care issue: snakes eating their own tails, explaining why it happens and sharing a simple (but surprising) vet-approved method to safely interrupt the behavior. Special Guests:Dr. Sylvalyn Hammond, Veterinarian & “The Honest Vet” Dr. Andy Roark, Veterinarian, Educator & Host of The Cone of Shame Podcast Pet Product Recommendations:Non-stop Dogwear Fjord Raincoat 2.0 – https://www.nonstopdogwear.com Tick Mitt Tick Sidekick Removal Tool – https://www.tickmitt.com Q&A Topics:My senior dog is slowing down and sleeping more — how do I know if this is normal aging or a sign of a medical issue? (Submitted by Karen from Denver, CO) My cat has bad breath but seems otherwise healthy — how serious is dental disease and when should I intervene? (Submitted by Olivia from Minneapolis, MN) Related Links:The Honest Vet (Dr. Sylvalyn Hammond): https://www.instagram.com/thehonestvet The Cone of Shame Podcast (Dr. Andy Roark): https://drandyroark.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

In this special St. Patrick’s Day episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the global impact pets have on our lives — from international travel and cultural traditions to the powerful role animals play even in times of war. With expert insights and inspiring stories, this episode highlights the deep human–animal bond across borders, communities, and crises. Story Time features:Kristen shares a festive St. Patrick’s Day fact: Ireland has more native dog breeds than almost any other country, including iconic breeds like the Irish Wolfhound, Irish Setter, and the Kerry Blue Terrier — each deeply tied to the nation’s history and culture. Chris discusses a recent MetLife pet owner survey showing that 65% of pet parents would cut back on their own spending before reducing what they spend on their pets — a powerful reminder of how central animals are to our emotional well-being. Special Guests:Lauren Anders Brown, Founder & CEO, PadsPass Nate Mook, Co-Founder, Hachiko Foundation Pet Product Recommendations:Kurgo Kibble Carrier Travel Bag – https://www.kurgo.com Happy Kitties Window Cat Hammock – https://www.amazon.com Q&A Topics:What’s the best way to introduce a dog and a new cat so both animals feel safe and avoid stress or conflict? (Submitted by Lauren from Madison, WI) What early warning signs should pet parents watch for that indicate their pet may need to see a veterinarian? (Submitted by Michael from Hoboken, NJ) Related Links:PadsPass Digital Pet Passport: https://www.padspass.com Hachiko Foundation: https://www.hachikofoundation.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

In this lively March edition of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore the fascinating intersection of pet science, backyard farming, and the emotional lives of dogs. From the surprising rise of hobby livestock to cutting-edge research on canine cognition and love, this episode challenges assumptions while offering practical guidance for modern pet families. Story Time features:Kristen shares insights into the growing popularity of professional pet sitting, highlighting National Professional Pet Sitters Week and the increasing demand for certified pet care support across the country. Chris explores global pet naming traditions, including France’s unique alphabetical naming system for purebred dogs — a cultural twist on how we define identity and connection with our pets. Special Guests:Dr. Clive D. L. Wynne, Professor of Psychology, Arizona State University & Director, Canine Science Collaboratory Dr. Mike Pesato, President, American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners Pet Product Recommendations:Cat Sushi Bonito Flakes Cat Food Topper – https://www.chewy.com/cat-sushi-bonito-flakes-classic-cut/dp/1301294 Muddy Mat Super Absorbent Door Mat – https://amzn.to/3O3EuvV Q&A Topics:My dog freezes in the snow and refuses to walk or even go to the bathroom outside. How can I help him feel more comfortable in winter? (Submitted by Ethan from Burlington, VT) Our dog keeps chewing furniture and table legs, and it’s pushing us to the breaking point. Is this anxiety, boredom, or something else — and how do we stop it? (Submitted by Mark from Plano, TX) Related Links:Canine Science Collaboratory (ASU): https://caninesciencecollaboratory.com Dr. Clive Wynne: https://clivewynne.com Four State Veterinary Services: https://fourstatevet.com Pet Sitters International: https://www.petsit.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

In this thoughtful and insight-packed episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine dive into rescue advocacy, behavioral medicine, and preventative care. From inspiring nonprofit storytelling to the science behind veterinary behavior support and dental health awareness, this episode highlights the importance of early intervention, education, and compassionate care for pets and their families. Story Time features:Kristen shares exciting new research mapping the largest catalog of the healthy dog gut microbiome to date, paving the way for more accurate nutrition guidance and microbiome-based health insights tailored specifically to dogs. Chris highlights conservation success closer to home: Mystic Aquarium welcomed two critically endangered African penguin chicks during a winter storm, a major milestone in global species survival efforts. Special Guests:Sam Spoto, Founder & Executive Director, Tell Me About Your Dog Dr. Chris Pachel, Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist & Founder, Animal Behavior Clinic Pet Product Recommendations:HICC Pet Dental Finger Wipes – https://www.chewy.com/hicc-pet-finger-glove-cat-dog-dental/dp/769934 Catstages Buggin’ Out Puzzle & Play Cat Feeder – https://amzn.to/3NGh3ZD Q&A Topics:My dog’s teeth look fine to me, but my vet keeps recommending dental care. How do I know when dental health is truly a problem? (Submitted by Mark from Scottsdale, AZ) Should I feed my cat wet food, dry food, or a mix of both to keep her healthy long-term? (Submitted by Olivia from Brooklyn, NY) Related Links:Tell Me About Your Dog: https://www.tellmeaboutyourdogpodcast.com Animal Behavior Clinic: https://animalbehaviorclinic.net Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC): https://vohc.org Mystic Aquarium: https://www.mysticaquarium.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

In this fun, timely, and high-energy Super Bowl–themed episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine celebrate the intersection of sports, pets, and play. From the Puppy Bowl and celebrity dogs to professional athletes advocating for rescue and cutting-edge canine enrichment, this episode highlights how pets bring balance, joy, and purpose into even the most high-pressure lives. Story Time features:Kristen shares highlights from the upcoming Puppy Bowl, now in its 22nd year, spotlighting more than 150 rescue dogs from shelters across the U.S. This year’s event puts special focus on senior dogs and pups with special needs, emphasizing adoption for dogs of all ages and abilities. Chris shares a behind-the-scenes story from the hit series The Traitors, revealing that host Alan Cumming’s rescue dog appears on the show — but refuses to bark on cue, requiring producers to dub in barking sounds. A charming reminder that even TV dogs get to be themselves. Special Guests:Jake Martin, Defensive End, Washington Commanders & Animal Welfare Advocate Meghan Wolfgram, Founder & CEO, SwiftPaws Pet Product Recommendations:Pets First NFL-Licensed Dog Jerseys – https://petsfirstcompany.com Nylabone Power Chew Textured Dental Chews – https://www.nylabone.com Q&A Topics:Are dental chews enough if my dog hates having his teeth brushed, or am I missing something important? (Submitted by Rachel from Scottsdale, AZ) My cat hides whenever there are changes in the house — new people, smells, or furniture. How can I help my anxious cat feel more secure? (Submitted by Lina from San Francisco, CA) Related Links:Puppy Bowl: https://www.discovery.com/shows/puppy-bowl SwiftPaws: https://swiftpaws.com Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC): https://vohc.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

In this milestone 100th episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine celebrate everything that has made the show what it is today — the pets, the people, the stories, and the powerful bond that connects them all. Recorded as the team heads into VMX, this special episode reflects on how far the podcast has come and where it’s headed next. Story Time features:Kristen shares a fun and timely story about the newly revealed U.S. Soccer mascot for the 2026 World Cup — a dog — symbolizing loyalty, courage, and the growing cultural connection between sports, pets, and people. Chris highlights key insights from the latest APPA Bird, Small Animal & Horse Ownership Report, including rising Gen Z interest in birds and small pets, shifting ownership trends, and what they reveal about the future of pet care. Special Guests:Jolie Dudley, Co-Founder of Must Love Dogs and Comedy Dr. Deborah Mandell, Professor of Emergency & Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania Ryan Veterinary Hospital Pet Product Recommendations:Uproot Clean Pet Hair Removal Tools – https://uprootclean.com/ Diggs Groov Treat & Lick Dispenser – https://amzn.to/48EdmKG Special Segment:To mark the 100th episode, Chris and Kristen share 100 Ways Pets Add Life — a rapid-fire, heartfelt celebration of how animals enrich our homes, routines, relationships, and emotional well-being every single day. Q&A Topics:Why would a healthy cat suddenly stop using the litter box, and how can pet parents fix it? (Submitted by Trent from Denver, CO) With so many vaccines, parasite preventatives, and tests available, what does my pet really need each year — and what’s optional? (Submitted by Kim from Orlando, FL) Related Links:American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org Must Love Dogs and Comedy: https://mustlovedogsandcomedy.org American Red Cross Pet First Aid App: https://www.redcross.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

In this special New Year episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine take a brief pause from new programming to revisit one of their most memorable interviews. To kick off 2026 with inspiration and heart, the team replays a standout conversation recorded at Global Pet Expo with a true animal-loving celebrity. Featured Conversation:Kristen Levine and guest co-host Dr. Courtney Campbell sit down with Amber Marshall, star of the long-running series Heartland. Amber shares how her lifelong love of animals shaped both her career and personal life, why working alongside horses and dogs keeps her grounded, and how animals bring calm, authenticity, and connection to every set she’s on. The conversation explores the emotional intelligence of animals, the importance of animal welfare in film and media, and how caring for animals can profoundly change the way we show up in the world. Special Guests:Amber Marshall, Actress, Animal Advocate & Star of Heartland Dr. Courtney Campbell, Veterinary Surgeon & Guest Co-Host Related Links:Global Pet Expo: https://globalpetexpo.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