112. Canine Fitness, Senior Pet Benefits & The Future of Pet-Inclusive Living

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