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.

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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.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

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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.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://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

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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.

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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.

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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:

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

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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.

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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:

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

 Learn more about Jamie:

Featured Product: Propel Air Platform

Guest 2: Dr. Aaron Massecar (VP of Partnerships at Kova)

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Join Kristen Levine and Chris Bonifati for an insightful episode of Pets Add Life as they explore essential pet CPR, decoding dog behavior, and caring for aging pets. Packed with expert advice, this episode will equip you to keep your furry friends safe, happy, and comfortable throughout their lives.

Guests:

Dr. Patricia McConnell – Understanding Canine Behavior & Communication World-renowned animal behaviorist and bestselling author, Dr. Patricia McConnell shares valuable insights into dog behavior, aggression myths, effective training methods, and interspecies communication. With over 25 years of experience teaching zoology and animal behavior at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dr. McConnell offers indispensable tips for creating stronger, healthier relationships with your pets.

Topics Covered with Dr. McConnell:

Follow Dr. Patricia McConnell: Official Website: https://www.patriciamcconnell.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patriciamcconnellphd Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PatriciaMcConnellPhD

Dr. Mary Gardner – Enhancing Quality of Life for Senior Pets Co-founder of Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice, Dr. Mary Gardner specializes in senior pet care, focusing on mobility issues, cognitive dysfunction, and ways to improve the quality of life for aging dogs and cats. Her compassionate approach helps pet parents create comfortable environments for their senior companions.

Topics Covered with Dr. Gardner:

Follow Dr. Mary Gardner & Lap of Love: Official Website: https://www.lapoflove.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lapofloveveterinaryhospice Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lapoflove

Products of the Week:

Audience Questions: From Alex in Houston, TX: “My dog has consistently bad breath, should I be worried? Could it indicate a serious health issue?”

From Jordan in Edwards, CO: “My dog shows aggression when guarding certain objects. What could cause this and how do I manage or correct this behavior?”

Links & Resources: Pet CPR Certification & Resources: Pet First Aid & CPR Training (Pet First Aid 4U): https://www.petfirstaid4u.com

Pet Behavior & Training Resources: Patricia McConnell Training Tips & Books: https://www.patriciamcconnell.com/books

Senior Pet Care Information: Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice Services: https://www.lapoflove.com

Follow 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

Description: Join hosts Chris and Kristen for a very special episode of Pets Add Life, broadcasting live from Global Pet Expo! First up, social media sensation Nathan Kehn, better known as Nathan the Cat Lady, shares how he combined his passion for acting and animal advocacy, becoming a trendsetting cat dad along the way. Nathan also discusses his impactful rescue work and shares insights into the growing popularity of cats, especially among cat dads. Later, Brian McDonald, Director of E-commerce at Oma’s Pride, dives deep into the world of raw pet nutrition, debunking common misconceptions, explaining its benefits, and revealing how Oma's Pride grew rapidly through innovative marketing and engaging brand storytelling. Plus, discover the latest innovative products showcased at Global Pet Expo, including AI-integrated litter boxes and modular puzzle toys designed for pet enrichment.

Products Featured:

Puzzlr: Modular puzzle enrichment toys for dogs. https://puzzlr.com

Whisker Litter-Robot: AI-integrated litter box monitoring pet health. https://www.litter-robot.com

Oma’s Pride: Premium raw pet food available in various package sizes. https://omaspride.com

Cat Lady Robes by Nathan the Cat Lady: Robes designed specifically for cat enthusiasts. https://catladyrobes.com

Guests and Social Media Links:

Nathan Kehn (Nathan the Cat Lady)

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanthecatlady

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nathanthecatlady

Website: https://catladyrobes.com

Brian McDonald (Oma’s Pride)

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omaspridepetfood

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/omaspridepetfood

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@omaspride

Website: https://omaspride.com

Podcast Links:

Pets Add Life Podcast: https://petsaddlife.org/podcast

Tune in and subscribe to explore more trends, products, and stories that celebrate the incredible bond between humans and animals!