115. Dog “Safaris,” Loneliness & The Future of Pet Innovation

In this dynamic episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, recorded live from Global Pet Expo, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore new ways to enrich our pets’ lives, the growing impact of loneliness on human health, and the future of innovation in the pet industry. With expert voices from veterinary medicine and startup innovation, this episode blends science, storytelling, and practical advice for modern pet parents.

Story Time features: Chris shares a fascinating new concept from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute — turning routine dog walks into “safaris,” where the focus shifts from distance to sensory enrichment, helping both pets and owners break routine and improve mental well-being.

Kristen highlights research showing that loneliness is a growing public health issue, especially among older adults, and that human-animal interaction can significantly reduce isolation and improve both mental and physical health outcomes.

Special Guests: Peter Carlos, Veterinary Technician & Social Media Educator

Dustin McAdams, CEO, PupJoy & Entrepreneur in Residence, Active Capital

Jay DeLong, Partner, Active Capital

Brian Lester, Senior Director of Strategic Planning, Nestlé Purina

Pet Product Recommendations: Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Puzzle Toys – https://outwardhound.com

NaturVet All-In-One 4-in-1 Daily Multivitamin Soft Chews

Q&A Topics: There are so many opinions about dog diets — kibble, raw, fresh — how do I know what’s actually best for my dog? (Submitted by Melissa from Austin, TX)

My cat suddenly stopped using the litter box — what are the most common causes and how should I handle it? (Submitted by Jessica from Phoenix, AZ)

Related Links: Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI): https://www.habri.org

Pet Care Innovation Network: https://www.petcareinnovation.net

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) & DOGTVv