In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske is joined by Janine Ling, founder of Project Sudz, a pet care brand built around natural, effective, and eco-conscious grooming solutions. Janine shares how her own dog’s environmental allergies led her to develop shampoos that nurture rather than damage the skin’s microbiome—using ingredients like apple cider vinegar and neem oil in place of harsh chemicals.

They discuss the science behind bar shampoo versus liquid, the importance of preserving skin health, and why most vet-prescribed shampoos can do more harm than good. Janine also explains the benefits of plastic-free packaging and Project Sudz's commitment to reducing environmental waste—donating one bar of soap for every five sold and packaging everything in compostable materials.

Beyond grooming, Toni and Janine explore how even everyday items like candles, dish soaps, and pet balms can be made healthier for pets, people, and the planet. With a shared love for simplicity, sustainability, and science-backed solutions, this conversation is a must-listen for pet parents looking to do better—from the bath to the backyard.

In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske welcomes Carissa Neary of GRIN (Golden Retrievers In Need) and Melissa Parker of Liam Search and Rescue for a powerful conversation about two volunteer-run organizations dedicated to saving lives—both canine and human.

Carissa shares how GRIN has rescued over 4,700 dogs in its 33-year history, operating entirely through foster homes, donations, and volunteers. From golden retrievers to mixed breeds, each dog receives full medical care and thoughtful placement through GRIN’s foster-to-adopt program.

Melissa explains how Liam Search and Rescue provides trained ground crews and certified dogs for missing persons cases, offering crucial support to families across Pennsylvania. Whether responding to lost children or adults with Alzheimer’s, her team shows up with compassion, skill, and purpose.

In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske talks with Kat Donatello, founder of Austin and Kat, about how to prepare pets for the stress of fireworks and summer noise using holistic, supplement-based strategies. With years of experience in CBD and plant-based pet wellness, Kat breaks down her go-to calming protocols—especially around the 4th of July.

They explore the development of Austin and Kat’s best-selling Bailey’s No More Wiggles line, the benefits of CBD and CBDA, and how early, consistent dosing can make a big difference for noise-sensitive pets. Kat also explains the importance of safe spaces, enrichment, and brainwork in keeping dogs balanced during stressful events.

The conversation also dives into daily anxiety management, the importance of product sourcing, and what sets Austin and Kat apart—including their Seattle-based manufacturing facility and recent NASC certification. Kat and Toni wrap with a powerful message: support indie retailers, read your labels, and don’t wait until July 3rd to take action.

In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske is joined by Maria Ryan, founder of Dog Gone Positive Dog Training, for a candid and often hilarious conversation about dog behavior, training philosophy, and the ups and downs of raising a puppy. Maria shares her journey in the industry since the 1990s, her shift away from aversive techniques, and her firm belief in evidence-based, force-free training.

They discuss everything from bite inhibition and socialization windows to crate training, chew safety, surfaces, and the importance of ongoing enrichment. Maria shares the story of adopting her new puppy Tony—who overcame a traumatic jaw injury—and what it’s like to manage teething, training, and building trust from day one.

The episode also digs into real-world examples of behavior challenges, the role of medication in behavior cases, and why training is about teaching people just as much as their dogs. It’s a fun, grounded reminder that dog training isn’t a phase—it’s a lifelong journey built on communication, patience, and mutual respect.

In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske chats with John Reider—also known as the Bubble Man—founder of Atomic Bubbles and Bubble Bus. John shares the origin story of his USA-made bubble company and how he turned a love of glowing bubbles into a thriving business that now includes pet-safe scented bubbles and bubble-filled event experiences.

They dive into Atomic Bubbles’ dog- and cat-friendly formulas, which use enticing scents like bacon, peanut butter, and real catnip oil—plus the newly launched calming lavender bubble made with real lavender essential oil. John and Toni discuss the importance of non-toxic ingredients, sensory safety for pets, and why fragrance should never overpower a pet’s environment.

John also talks about the rise of the Bubble Bus: a traveling bubble party on wheels that entertains all ages at weddings, schools, and community events. From hand-painting school buses to franchising a nationwide brand, his story is all about family, joy, and keeping it fun.

In this episode of Toni Unleashed, the tables are turned as Erik Senders of Mika & Sammy’s interviews Toni Shelaske in a laid-back, unscripted conversation about pet nutrition, retail, and the changing pet industry. Toni shares how her career began in fashion merchandising, eventually leading her to purchase and grow Healthy Pet Products, and later sell her Pittsburgh stores to Pedagogy after 16 years.

They dive into raw feeding, kibble quality, and Toni’s top recommended supplement and treat brands. From the realities of tooth cracks to supplement scams and chew safety myths, Toni offers no-nonsense takes on what’s worth feeding—and what’s just marketing.

The episode also touches on industry dynamics, the impact of COVID, and how small businesses are adapting to online pressures and slim distributor margins. Toni and Erik reflect on building customer relationships, the role of education in retail, and their hopes for the future of independent pet stores.

In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske is joined by Emily Claire and founder of Save a Friend Puerto Rico - Marla Farren, to spotlight the full-scope effort behind rescuing dogs on the island and finding them homes in the States. What begins as on-the-ground work in Puerto Rico—vetting, treating, and fostering street dogs—continues across borders through transport logistics, community outreach, and long-term support for fosters and adopters.

The conversation traces the entire rescue process: from emergency care and holistic protocols to navigating flight restrictions, managing supply shortages, and building lasting partnerships with foster homes and veterinary teams. Toni and Emily also share details of their upcoming trip to the island, where they’ll document the work and bring dogs back for adoption.

This episode highlights how Save a Friend Puerto Rico operates as a full-spectrum rescue—one that doesn’t stop at saving animals from the street, but follows through with every step until each one has a chance at a new life. It’s a deeply collaborative effort that requires time, coordination, and a caring community—both on the island and in the mainland U.S.

https://saveafriendpr.rescuegroups.org/
https://account.venmo.com/u/saveafriendpr

In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske sits down with longtime customer and seasoned road tripper Christine to talk all about traveling long distances with pets. With hundreds of hours logged on the road with her German Shepherd and three cats, Christine shares practical tips for making car travel safer, calmer, and more comfortable for both animals and humans.

They cover everything from how to organize your vehicle and manage overnight stops to the value of small comforts like used scratchers, familiar litter, and portable food and water routines. Christine also shares hacks like using bungee cords to reduce noise fatigue, harnessing routine to ease anxiety, and why Airbnbs and motels often beat hotels for pet travelers.

Whether you're planning your first road trip with pets or looking to improve your next one, this episode is packed with actionable advice, thoughtful planning strategies, and a focus on minimizing stress—for everyone in the car.