In this festive Thanksgiving episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine share gratitude, laughter, and expert advice for keeping pets happy and safe during the holidays. From falling acorns to falling iguanas, and mindful connection to mindful eating, this episode celebrates the joy pets bring into our lives every day.

Story Time:

Chris warns pet parents about the recent rise in dogs swallowing acorns—posing serious health risks and even requiring surgery in some cases.

Kristen shares the heartwarming story of Emmy the Labrador, who visits her neighbor every day to ring a special nose-level doorbell for a treat, reminding us how much dogs love routine, friendship, and community.

Special Guests:

Michael Burke, Author of Intuitive Animal Communication: Co-Create a Meaningful Life and Deep Connection with Animals

Dr. Mark Freeman, Clinical Associate Professor of Community Practice at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine

Pet Product Recommendations:

Nite Ize NightHowl LED Safety Necklace – https://amzn.to/43xKhyF

ChomChom Roller Pet Hair Remover – https://a.co/d/eTuX5S9

Q&A Topics:

Thanksgiving food safety tips for dogs and how to prevent overfeeding during the holidays (Submitted by Anna from Nashville, TN)

How to keep pets calm and comfortable when hosting large gatherings (Submitted by Grace from Charlotte, NC)

Related Links:

Michael Burke Official Site: https://michaelrburke.com/

Intuitive Animal Communication (Book): https://michaelrburke.com/intuitive-animal-communication-book/

Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine: https://vetmed.vt.edu

Holiday Hazards Guide (Virginia Tech): https://news.vt.edu/articles/2024/12/vetmed-pet-holiday-safety.html

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