In this episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine discuss responsible pet ownership and the unique role animals can play in children’s learning. They also focus on an often-overlooked aspect of pet wellness: dental health. The episode features a bilingual children’s book series inspired by a rescue dog, along with practical tips for maintaining the dental health of dogs and cats. Overall, it celebrates how caring for animals can teach us valuable lessons about responsibility, kindness, and connection.
Kristen emphasizes the American Kennel Club's Responsible Dog Owner Pet Promise, which encourages dog owners to commit to responsible care throughout their pet's lifetime. This includes proper nutrition, veterinary care, exercise, training, identification, and consideration for their communities.
Chris reflects on Dolly Parton and highlights a lesser-known aspect of her remarkable philanthropic legacy: her support for animals and wildlife conservation. He acknowledges her longstanding relationship with the American Eagle Foundation and its efforts to protect bald eagles.
Special Guests:
Susan Rose, Tony Award-Winning Broadway Producer & Co-Author of the José and El Perro Series
Silvia López, Children’s Book Author, Former Librarian & Co-Author of the José and El Perro Series
Susan Rose and Silvia López introduce listeners to José and El Perro, their bilingual early-reader series about José and his adopted shelter dog, Feliz. They discuss how the books naturally introduce Spanish vocabulary to English-speaking children while exploring themes of pet adoption, friendship, family and kindness. They also share the inspiration behind their newest book, Happy Birthday, José and Feliz, and explain how storytelling can help children discover another language and culture without making learning feel like a lesson.
Dr. Ruth MacPete, Veterinarian, Author & Pet Health Expert
Dr. Ruth “The Pet Vet” MacPete joins the show to explain why dental health is an essential part of a pet’s overall wellness. She discusses warning signs such as bad breath, how to introduce tooth brushing, alternatives for pets that won’t tolerate a toothbrush, the role of dental chews and appropriate chewing, and why regular veterinary examinations remain an important part of maintaining a healthy mouth.
Pet Product Recommendations:
My neighbor’s dog barks constantly whenever he’s outside, sometimes for hours. Besides being frustrating for us, I’m starting to wonder if the dog is stressed or unhappy. What can nonstop barking tell us about a dog, and is there anything a neighbor can realistically do to help? (Submitted by Jason from Denver, CO)
I hear so much about brushing dogs’ teeth but almost nothing about cats. My cat has never had her teeth brushed, and honestly, I can’t imagine her letting me do it. How important is dental care for cats, and what can I realistically do at home to keep her teeth and gums healthy? (Submitted by Rachel from San Francisco, CA)
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