Episode Details

In this informative episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore smarter approaches to pet nutrition, weight management, training, and everyday care. From a proposed New Jersey tax credit for pet expenses and an important summer tick warning to expert guidance on healthy feeding and stress-free grooming, this episode offers practical ways to support pets’ physical and emotional well-being.

Story Time features:
Kristen discusses a proposed New Jersey tax credit that would allow eligible pet owners to claim up to $300 for everyday pet expenses and up to $600 for qualifying veterinary costs.

Chris shares an important summer reminder that flea and tick preventatives do not eliminate every risk. He explains why pet parents should continue performing careful tick checks, including between their pets’ toes, after outdoor activities.

Special Guests:
Dr. Megan Sprinkle, Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionist & Head of Veterinary Affairs, Golden Child

Dr. Deb Jones, Dog Trainer, Psychologist, Author & Cooperative Care Educator

Pet Product Recommendations:
EzyDog Crosscheck Harness –

Digital Pet Food Measuring Scoop Scale – https://www.amazon.com/Measuring-Electronic-Removable-Weighing-Suitable/dp/B0DM97CY7W

Q&A Topics:
I’ve watched countless training videos online, but my dog still doesn’t respond consistently. How can owners tell whether their home training is effective, and what common mistakes might they be making? (Submitted by Mark from Columbus, OH)

My cat becomes stressed by even minor changes, including visitors, rearranged furniture, and groceries entering the home. Why are some cats so sensitive to change, and how can owners help them feel more secure? (Submitted by Jennifer from Seattle, WA)

Related Links:
Golden Child: https://mygoldenchild.com

Dr. Megan Sprinkle (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/sprinklemc

Dr. Deb Jones – K9 in Focus: https://k9infocus.com

Cooperative Care Certificate: https://cooperativecarecertificate.com

Fenzi Dog Sports Academy: https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com

Cooperative Care: Seven Steps to Stress-Free Husbandry: https://www.amazon.com/Cooperative-Care-Seven-Stress-Free-Husbandry/dp/0578423138

New Jersey Assembly Bill A4995: https://pub.njleg.state.nj.us/Bills/2026/A5000/4995_I1.HTM

Association of American Feed Control Officials: https://www.aafco.org

National Animal Supplement Council: https://www.nasc.cc

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:
Dr. Megan Sprinkle (Instagram):