Toni Unleashed
Toni Unleashed Podcast is a light-hearted podcast addressing the truth about the pet food industry with anecdotal and scientific evidence. Host Toni Shelaske invites and interviews pet experts, demonstrating a broad spectrum of information. We hope to engage the community in these discussions with our transparent approach to what can feel like an overwhelming world of pet food.
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Redefining Cat Food: Why Moisture, Bone Broth, and Species-Specific Probiotics Matter
02/04/2026
Redefining Cat Food: Why Moisture, Bone Broth, and Species-Specific Probiotics Matter
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni talks with Emily Taylor of Raw Dynamic Pet Food about the importance of moisture and species-appropriate nutrition for cats. The conversation focuses on why dry, heavily processed diets often fall short and how moisture-rich food better supports feline digestion, hydration, and overall health. Emily explains Raw Dynamic’s updated cat food formulas, including scoopable frozen and freeze-dried cubes and the addition of single-source bone broth matched to each protein. They also discuss the role of species-specific probiotics designed to survive cats’ highly acidic digestive systems. The episode wraps with practical feeding tips—like avoiding whisker fatigue, rotating proteins, and prioritizing moisture from food—not just water bowls—to help cats thrive long term.
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From Tap to Truth: What Your Water Actually Contains
01/28/2026
From Tap to Truth: What Your Water Actually Contains
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske is joined by Cydian Kauffman of Pure Natural Water Northwest for a clear, approachable conversation about water quality and filtration. Together, they break down what actually comes out of the tap and why water quality can vary so widely from place to place. Cydian explains how municipal water systems work, what common contaminants may remain after treatment, and the importance of testing your water before choosing a filtration system. The discussion compares different filtration options—including whole-house systems, under-sink filters, and reverse osmosis—while addressing common misconceptions around “clean” water. The episode wraps with a practical look at how understanding your water source empowers better decisions for your home and health, encouraging listeners to ask questions, read water reports, and take control of the water they use every day.
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From Chesty to Lean: A Real-Life Dog Weight Loss Story
01/20/2026
From Chesty to Lean: A Real-Life Dog Weight Loss Story
In this episode, Toni is joined by former producer and longtime friend, Cydnee Traversari, to share the real-life story of her dog Rufus and his journey from being significantly overweight to thriving at 16 years old. The conversation offers an honest, relatable look at how easily weight gain can happen—and how powerful small, informed changes can be. Toni and Cydnee discuss early feeding mistakes, including relying on kibble guidelines, overestimating portions based on current weight, and unintentionally over-treating. Cydnee shares how switching to higher-quality, more nutrient-dense food, cutting portions, and eventually incorporating raw feeding helped Rufus lose over 10 pounds and dramatically improve his mobility, energy, and overall health. The episode also touches on behavior changes linked to diet, the role of joint supplements, managing senior dogs, and why questioning marketing and feeding charts matters. With humor, honesty, and zero judgment, this conversation reinforces a key message: better food, proper portions, and education can add years—and quality—to a dog’s life.
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More Than Training: Building Balanced Dogs Through Everyday Life
01/14/2026
More Than Training: Building Balanced Dogs Through Everyday Life
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni is joined by Emily Claire and Michelle McGraw of Say It Once Dog Training for an honest conversation about what it really takes to support dogs—and the people caring for them. Together, they explore how training, nutrition, fostering, and real-world exposure work together to build confident, well-adjusted dogs. The discussion breaks down the idea of structured socialization, emphasizing that it’s more than just dogs interacting with each other. Michelle shares insight from her training work, highlighting how everyday environments, consistency, and clear communication play a major role in long-term behavioral success. Toni and Emily reflect on their experiences fostering rescue dogs, including the challenges of managing multiple dogs with different needs and energy levels. The episode reinforces a judgment-free approach rooted in education, patience, and small, intentional efforts that create lasting change for both dogs and their humans.
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Weight Matters: Rethinking Food, Fasting, and Obesity in Pets
01/07/2026
Weight Matters: Rethinking Food, Fasting, and Obesity in Pets
In this solo episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske dives into the growing issue of pet obesity and why weight management is critical to long-term health and quality of life. With more than half of dogs and cats now considered overweight, Toni explains how overfeeding, excessive treats, and starch-heavy diets—especially kibble—contribute to the problem. She challenges common feeding assumptions, discusses portion control and fresh food additions, and shares personal insight from her dog Bo’s weight-loss journey. The conversation also touches on fasting, treat habits, and the role humans play in pet weight gain. Maybe it's time to rethink daily feeding choices and join an ongoing focus on sustainable, realistic approaches to helping pets live longer, healthier lives.
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Healing Skin from Within: Smarter Supplements for Pets w/ Rebacca Rose | inClover Pet Supplements
12/31/2025
Healing Skin from Within: Smarter Supplements for Pets w/ Rebacca Rose | inClover Pet Supplements
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske welcomes back Rebecca Rose of inClover Pet Supplements for an in-depth conversation focused on skin and coat health, supplementation, and what truly supports pets from the inside out. Using Toni’s own rescue dog Grayson as a real-world example, the discussion explores how nutrition and targeted supplements can dramatically improve skin recovery and coat quality after early health challenges. Rebecca breaks down the science behind inClover’s Skin & Coat supplement, highlighting the role of clinically tested levels of biotin, zinc, and omega-3s, and explains why sourcing—particularly algae-based DHA—matters for both effectiveness and environmental sustainability. The conversation emphasizes repairing skin at the cellular level rather than relying solely on topical solutions. They also dive into label transparency, inactive ingredients, and the importance of NASC certification, offering listeners a clearer understanding of how to evaluate supplements responsibly. From dogs and cats to horses and even zoo animals, the episode reinforces a core message: thoughtful nutrition and daily supplementation help pets stay resilient in the face of stress, aging, and environmental challenges.
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Food, Feelings, and Behavior: How Nutrition Impacts Your Pet’s Mind
12/17/2025
Food, Feelings, and Behavior: How Nutrition Impacts Your Pet’s Mind
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske is joined by Michelle McGraw of Say It Once Dog Training and Emily Claire for a thoughtful conversation about the powerful connection between nutrition, behavior, and emotional regulation in pets. Together, they explore how daily choices around food, enrichment, and routine can significantly influence a pet’s overall well-being. The discussion breaks down how highly processed diets—particularly kibble-heavy feeding—can contribute to blood sugar swings, behavioral challenges, and constant hunger. Toni, Michelle, and Emily share approachable, budget-conscious ways pet parents can improve their pet’s diet, including incorporating fresh foods like eggs, fruits, vegetables, and other safe additions to the bowl. The episode also touches on training, anxiety, medication, and the importance of addressing foundational needs before turning to quick fixes. Emphasizing education, advocacy, and realistic expectations, the conversation highlights how meeting pets where they are—and making small, intentional changes—can lead to meaningful improvements in both behavior and quality of life.
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Joint Health Essentials: What Your Pets Really Need with Rebecca Rose from InClover
12/10/2025
Joint Health Essentials: What Your Pets Really Need with Rebecca Rose from InClover
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske sits down with Rebecca Rose, founder of InClover, to break down what truly supports joint health in dogs and cats. Rebecca shares the science behind mobility supplements, explains why ingredients like glucosamine aren’t always enough on their own, and highlights the importance of targeting the entire joint structure—not just the cartilage. They discuss common mobility issues, early signs pet parents shouldn’t ignore, and how inflammation and gut health play a bigger role in joint comfort than most people realize. Rebecca also explains what makes InClover’s formulations unique, from clinically tested ingredients to bioavailable nutrient combinations designed to deliver real, measurable results. The conversation gives pet parents a clearer understanding of what to look for in a joint supplement, how to support pets as they age, and why starting early can make all the difference. https://inclover.com/
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Dental Chews 101: What Really Keeps Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy
12/03/2025
Dental Chews 101: What Really Keeps Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy
In this solo episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske breaks down the truth about dental health for dogs and cats—starting with a key myth: kibble does not clean teeth. She explains how fresh food and biologically appropriate chewing play a far bigger role in preventing plaque and tartar. Toni shares her top natural chew recommendations, including roasted bones, raw femur bones, antlers, bully sticks, sheep horns, coffee wood, yak chews, and more. She covers how abrasion-based chewing supports dental hygiene, reduces anxiety, and keeps pets occupied during busy gatherings. She also touches on safe sourcing, choosing the right chews for your pet, and how gut health and fresh food contribute to better breath and overall oral wellness. Toni closes with practical tips for both dogs and cats—and a reminder to share the episode and leave a five-star review.
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When Pets Need Help: Adam Spencer on Building Furlanthropy
11/26/2025
When Pets Need Help: Adam Spencer on Building Furlanthropy
In this episode, Toni talks with Adam Spencer, founder of Furlanthropy, about his journey from devoted pet owner to creating a nonprofit crowdfunding platform that helps pet parents afford essential veterinary care. Adam discusses the financial hurdles many owners face and how Furlanthropy fills the gap by offering a transparent, ethical, and accessible way to raise funds during medical emergencies. They explore what makes Furlanthropy different—from flexible donation options to empowering families to manage their own campaigns with clarity and confidence. Adam also highlights the importance of transparency in nonprofit work and shares his vision for Furlanthropy’s future as a long-term support system for the pet care community.
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Fleas, Ticks & Tough Decisions: Finding Balance in Pet Care
11/12/2025
Fleas, Ticks & Tough Decisions: Finding Balance in Pet Care
In this solo episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni revisits the ever-challenging topic of fleas and ticks—sharing what’s working, what’s not, along with having to face a tough decision for her own dog. She walks through her favorite natural prevention strategies—from herbal supplements and sprays to diatomaceous earth and ultrasonic tick tags—along with simple, effective tips for keeping pets safe year-round. Toni also gives updates on her pack: Bo’s senior care and laser therapy, Grayson’s recovery and glowing coat, and Layla’s ongoing digestive journey. As always, she offers honesty, insight, and heart to help pet parents make the best choices for their animals. Learn more or connect with Toni at .
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From Child Dream to Pet Empire: Ava’s Pet Palace Story
11/05/2025
From Child Dream to Pet Empire: Ava’s Pet Palace Story
In this inspiring episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni sits down with Ava Dorsey, the founder and CEO of Ava’s Pet Palace — a thriving pet treat company she started when she was just eight years old. Now 18, Ava shares how her childhood love for animals and passion for healthy ingredients grew into an award-winning, USDA Organic brand with nationwide retail presence. Ava talks about drawing her first “job plan” at age six, making tuna treats for her cat Pumpkin, and how family support and social media helped her business take off. She and Toni discuss her journey from baking treats in her kitchen to working with co-manufacturers, exhibiting at Global Pet Expo, and getting into major retailers like Meijer and Erewhon—all while staying committed to small, independent pet stores. They also dive into the challenges of balancing entrepreneurship with school, the power of staying true to your values, and Ava’s advice for other young entrepreneurs: “Comparison is the thief of joy.” Learn more or shop at , and follow @AvasPetPalace on Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and YouTube.
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Saving Dogs from Chocolate: The Science Behind Chocolate Detox
10/29/2025
Saving Dogs from Chocolate: The Science Behind Chocolate Detox
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni talks with Amadeus and Tamaris, founders of Chocolate Detox for Dogs, the world’s first over-the-counter chocolate neutralizer for pets. After nearly losing his dog to chocolate poisoning, physicist and patent attorney Amadeus created a safe, science-backed product every pet parent should keep in their first-aid kit. They discuss how Chocolate Detox works, why minutes matter after ingestion, and how vets are embracing it as a practical, affordable solution. The conversation also covers new products on the way, including grape detox, THC detox, and Safe Lick, a paw wipe that neutralizes lawn chemicals linked to cancer in dogs. Learn more at and follow @CD4Dogs on social media.
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The Business of Poop: Mark Regan | Call Poop Away
10/22/2025
The Business of Poop: Mark Regan | Call Poop Away
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni chats with Mark Regan, co-founder of Call Poop Away, about how a simple idea turned into a thriving pet waste removal business serving Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Mark shares how he and his business partner grew from one Craigslist ad to hundreds of recurring customers, built a loyal team, and are now expanding through franchise opportunities. They discuss the ups and downs of running a “garage business,” the surprising profitability of poop scooping, and creative add-on services like deodorizing sprays and tick treatments. Mark’s story proves that with persistence, humor, and hard work, you really can make a business out of anything. Learn more at or follow The Poop Guys on social media for updates and laughs.
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Mushrooms for Pets: The Science Behind Natural Healing with Earth Buddy
10/15/2025
Mushrooms for Pets: The Science Behind Natural Healing with Earth Buddy
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni welcomes Sean Zyer, founder of Earth Buddy Pet, for an in-depth conversation about the science and power of functional mushrooms for pets. Sean shares how his company began a decade ago with full-spectrum CBD and evolved into crafting small-batch, Colorado-grown supplements that support pets’ immune systems, cognition, and overall health. Toni and Sean dive deep into the differences between fruiting bodies and mycelium, why both matter, and how to evaluate the quality of mushroom products. They explore the unique properties of five core mushrooms—reishi, lion’s mane, turkey tail, cordyceps, and agarikon—and their roles in immune modulation, cognitive health, allergy support, and longevity. The conversation also touches on sourcing transparency, USDA organic cultivation, and how consistency and patience are key when introducing supplements. Sean explains why mushroom blends can benefit pets of all ages and how simple, sustainable approaches to health can make a long-term difference for animals and their humans alike. Learn more about Earth Buddy Pet at , and check out their educational resources for deeper insights into mushroom science.
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Chewing Naturally: Canophera’s Mission for Healthier, Happier Dogs
10/08/2025
Chewing Naturally: Canophera’s Mission for Healthier, Happier Dogs
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni chats with Jenn Johnson from Canophera, the original makers of all-natural coffee wood chews and sustainable dog toys. Jenn shares the story behind Canophera’s mission to create safe, eco-friendly alternatives to plastic and nylon chews—using natural materials like coffee wood, coconut fiber, briar root, sheep horn, and red deer antler. Toni and Jenn dive into how Canophera began in Europe over a decade ago, the science and safety behind their products, and why choosing natural chews can make such a big difference for your pet’s health. They discuss everything from sustainability and dental benefits to which chews are best for different dogs and how Canophera’s innovative new toys are redefining playtime for pets. Along the way, they also talk candidly about real-life dog antics, responsible pet ownership, and how small companies like Canophera are challenging big-box norms to put safety and sustainability first. Learn more or shop directly at canophera.com, and don’t forget to check out their educational videos on YouTube.
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Inside My Pack: Toni Shares Her Dogs’ Journeys & Health Stories
10/01/2025
Inside My Pack: Toni Shares Her Dogs’ Journeys & Health Stories
In her very first solo episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni pulls back the curtain and shares the stories of her own three dogs—Bo, Layla, and Greyson—and the lessons they’ve taught her about health, resilience, and love. She begins with Bo, a 13-year-old cattle dog who came to her overweight and misunderstood, and how proper nutrition, exercise, and supplements helped him thrive into his senior years. Toni also talks about Layla, her rescued Great Dane, and the challenges of early spay, joint health in giant breeds, and supporting a picky eater with patience and raw feeding. Finally, she introduces Greyson, her newest rescue from Puerto Rico, whose journey through parvo and mange has shaped him into a gentle soul and the perfect playmate for Layla. Throughout the episode, Toni shares the supplements, feeding practices, and therapies she relies on—from raw food and bone broth to CBD, mushrooms, and rehab fitness programs. More than that, she reflects on the emotional side of life with her pack: the joy, the challenges, and why staying curious and proactive as a pet parent is the key to helping our animals live longer, healthier lives.
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Flea & Tick Talk: Safer Options for Pets and People
09/24/2025
Flea & Tick Talk: Safer Options for Pets and People
Toni and Emily talk about the three top-selling chemical flea and tick products, what is in them and why they can be dangerous. In reference Dr.Judy Morgan, why she avoids chemical flea and tick products, and what she recommends that are safe for humans and dogs. They also reference other ways to care for your lawn and pets to make it easier to avoid chemicals. Toni and Emily note that chemicals are a good option in various situations, and they do not want anyone to feel bad about using them. They want to share information with their listeners so that they are informed to make the best decision possible for their animals.
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From CBD to Mushrooms: Expanding Pet Wellness with David Hartigan
09/17/2025
From CBD to Mushrooms: Expanding Pet Wellness with David Hartigan
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni welcomes back David Hartigan, co-founder of Hemp Heros, for a second deep dive into CBD and natural wellness for pets. David shares updates on Hemp Heros’ mission to provide safe, effective alternatives for pets dealing with pain, anxiety, inflammation, and other health concerns. Together, Toni and David explore the growing world of functional mushrooms—like reishi, lion’s mane, and turkey tail—and how they can boost immunity, cognitive function, and overall vitality for dogs and cats. They also discuss the importance of quality control, third-party testing, and educating pet parents to make confident choices about supplements. This follow-up conversation is packed with insights, science, and actionable tips for anyone curious about holistic approaches to pet health.
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Auctions for Animals PGH - Supporting Pets Near and Far
09/10/2025
Auctions for Animals PGH - Supporting Pets Near and Far
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni sits down with Kim Tamburri and Lindsey Perriello, the duo behind Auctions for Animals PGH, a grassroots nonprofit that has raised over $50,000 in just four years for local shelters and international rescues. Kim and Lindsey share the story of how a simple closet clean-out turned into a thriving Facebook auction group that now supports both Pittsburgh-area rescues and the Beach Dog Rescue of Costa Maya in Mexico. From coordinating donations and pick-ups to growing a community of nearly 1,000 members, they talk about the creativity, challenges, and joy that comes with turning everyday items into lifesaving funds. The conversation also highlights their upcoming 3rd Annual Cash Bash, an evening of prizes, games, raffle baskets, and community fun—all benefiting animals in need through both Costa Maya and the Izzy Fund. With stories of street dog rescues, spay/neuter campaigns abroad, and the power of community giving, this episode shows how small ideas can grow into incredible impact for animals. https://www.facebook.com/share/g/14HJWj5gLs6/?mibextid=wwXIfr
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Say It Once: Rescue Work, Dog Training & Derby Fun w/ Vinnie Soma
09/03/2025
Say It Once: Rescue Work, Dog Training & Derby Fun w/ Vinnie Soma
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni welcomes back her longtime friend Vinnie Soma, founder of Say It Once Dog Training and Say It Once Dog Rescue League. Vinny shares the mission behind the Rescue League—partnering with shelters to provide training for dogs most at risk of being returned or overlooked due to behavior issues—and how this work helps more dogs find and stay in forever homes. The conversation dives into the annual Dog Derby, happening September 28th at Boyce Park: a 5K obstacle-style course designed for dogs and their families, complete with vendors, food trucks, and community fun—all in support of the Rescue League. Toni and Vinnie also go deep on training philosophies, from the importance of structure, play, and crate training to the hot-button topics of spay/neuter timing and training tools. With honesty, humor, and plenty of passion, Vinny shares why evolving methods, balanced approaches, and clear communication matter for both dogs and their humans. Whether you’re curious about rescue work, looking for training insights, or just love a good dog story, this episode is packed with practical takeaways and heart.
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Live from SuperZoo 2025: Innovators in Pet Care (Part Two)
08/27/2025
Live from SuperZoo 2025: Innovators in Pet Care (Part Two)
In Part Two of Toni Unleashed live from SuperZoo, Toni continues her conversations with innovative founders and educators from across the pet industry. Each story highlights passion, creativity, and the power of supporting independent pet retailers. This episode features: Nulo Pet Food — built on the philosophy of fueling pets like athletes with high-meat, low-carb, low-glycemic nutrition. The Do Loop — a simple, sustainable solution for hands-free poop bag carrying, made in Maine with recycled materials. Teddy the Dog — beloved for witty USA-made apparel that entertains, inspires, and gives back through philanthropic causes. Native Pet — clean-label, science-driven supplements designed to extend pets’ healthspan with innovative products like their gut health line. MycoDog & CBD Dog Health — harnessing the power of medicinal mushrooms and plant extracts to support longevity, cognitive health, and wellness in pets. From better nutrition to clever everyday solutions, Part Two continues to showcase why independent brands are at the heart of pet health and innovation.
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Live from SuperZoo 2025: Innovators in Pet Care (Part One)
08/20/2025
Live from SuperZoo 2025: Innovators in Pet Care (Part One)
In this special live episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni takes you inside SuperZoo, one of the pet industry’s largest trade shows. Over two days on the show floor, she sat down with more than a dozen innovative pet business owners to spotlight their stories, missions, and the unique products they bring to independent pet retailers. You’ll hear from: Mountain Wild — turning unused elk and deer meat into sustainable, high-value treats. Polkadog — makers of the iconic hand-rolled Cod Skins and other mission-driven, sustainable treats. Ruff Town — a brand born from a bold career change, crafting natural treats with plans to blend rescue, community, and pet wellness. FirstMate — a family-owned company with deep fishing roots, known for limited-ingredient diets and sustainable sourcing. Momentum Carnivore Nutrition — Wisconsin-based freeze-dried specialists dedicated to supporting independent retailers. Skout’s Honor — eco-friendly, science-backed cleaning and grooming products that put pets and planet first. Closer Pets — innovative feeders, fountains, and pet doors designed to make life easier for pets and their people. From sustainability to creativity, each story showcases why shopping independent pet stores matters now more than ever. This is Part One of a two-part SuperZoo series, packed with ideas, inspiration, and the people shaping the future of pet care.
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Episode 100! w/ Emily Claire & Cyd Traversari
08/13/2025
Episode 100! w/ Emily Claire & Cyd Traversari
In this milestone 100th episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni reunites with former co-host Emily Claire and former producer Cyd Traversari for a heartfelt (and often hilarious) walk down memory lane. Together, they revisit the origins of the podcast, from YouTube harness-fitting videos and makeshift recording spots to the chemistry and chaos that shaped the show. The trio swaps stories from their years working together at Healthy Pet Products—sharing favorite events, road trip adventures, and the behind-the-scenes moments that bonded them as friends. They reflect on standout interviews, memorable rescue work, and the beloved pets who became part of the Toni Unleashed family. Between laughter, candid confessions, and a few tender moments, Toni, Emily, and Cyd celebrate the growth of the podcast, the power of shared passion, and the community of listeners who have been along for the ride. It’s a nostalgic, unfiltered celebration of friendship, animals, and 100 episodes strong.
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All about CBD with Hemp Heroes Founder David Hartigan
08/06/2025
All about CBD with Hemp Heroes Founder David Hartigan
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni welcomes back David Hartigan, founder of Hemp Heroes and Mush & Co., to talk about setting a new standard in pet wellness. David shares how his team developed a cold-pressed CBD extraction method, built their own facility in Buffalo, and earned B Corp certification—all to ensure transparency, quality, and affordability. They dig into the problems with white-labeled CBD products, the importance of third-party testing, and why clinical research (including a recent arthritis study) is critical to building trust. David also gives a preview of Mush & Co’s functional mushroom tinctures and their plans for future clinical trials. Toni and David also discuss the role of independent pet retailers in reshaping the supplement space—offering education, community connection, and a path away from the mass-market status quo.
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Gabrielle Brown | Marine Conservation & Environmental Advocacy
07/30/2025
Gabrielle Brown | Marine Conservation & Environmental Advocacy
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske talks with Gabrielle Brown of the Happily Living podcast about environmental awareness and practical steps to live more sustainably. They cover the impact of ocean windmills and cruise ships on marine life, the pervasive problem of plastic pollution, and innovative cleanup efforts like The Ocean Cleanup organization. Gabrielle shares tips for reducing plastic use and creating a healthier yard environment with natural pest deterrents like lemongrass and cedar mulch. They also discuss how these changes benefit pet health and support ecological balance. The conversation wraps with Gabrielle’s podcast goals and upcoming episodes focused on shark conservation and coral reef protection, inspiring listeners to make small shifts that benefit both people and the planet.
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Angela Ardolino- Medicinal Benefits of Mushrooms
07/23/2025
Angela Ardolino- Medicinal Benefits of Mushrooms
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske welcomes Angela Ardolino—founder of MycoDog, CBD Dog Health, and a passionate advocate for functional, plant- and fungi-based healing. Angela shares her personal journey from medical cannabis patient to holistic pet health entrepreneur, and how her own dog's cancer diagnosis inspired her to start developing mushroom-based tinctures for pets. They discuss the science and sourcing behind MycoDog’s functional mushroom blends, including ingredients like reishi, turkey tail, chaga, and lion’s mane. Angela explains how her tinctures target everything from cancer support to cognitive health, and why whole-fruiting body mushrooms, grown in the U.S., make all the difference in effectiveness. The conversation also covers the challenges of working in an under-regulated supplement market, the rise of greenwashing in the pet industry, and how education—and results—are key to building trust with pet parents. Toni and Angela connect over their shared mission: helping pets live longer, healthier lives with natural, proven ingredients.
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Toni & Emily Dive Inside the Work of Save a Friend Puerto Rico
07/16/2025
Toni & Emily Dive Inside the Work of Save a Friend Puerto Rico
In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni and Emily share their firsthand experience volunteering with , an organization dedicated to rescuing stray dogs on the island and finding them safe homes in the States. What begins as a trip to help quickly becomes a deep dive into the challenges and victories of full-spectrum animal rescue. The conversation explores the realities of boots-on-the-ground rescue, from catching dogs on the beach to treating medical conditions like mange and heartworm. The hosts discuss what it takes to quarantine, vet, and prepare dogs for transport—efforts that don't end when the animals leave the island. They recount emotional moments of heartbreak and hope, including a harrowing failed rescue attempt and the joyous adoption of a dog named Bodie by a family that never gave up on him. Toni and Emily also explain how the collaboration between U.S.-based fosters, flight angels, and Puerto Rican rescuers makes this work possible. They emphasize the importance of education, spay/neuter programs, and sustainable infrastructure like quarantine spaces and reliable vet access. This episode is a call to action: for volunteers, donors, fosters, and flight angels to join a mission that goes far beyond just one animal—it’s about changing lives and communities. Links & Mentions: Follow: @saveafriendpr Become a flight angel or support the mission through donations and fosters.
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Janine Ling | Project Sudz
07/09/2025
Janine Ling | Project Sudz
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.
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GRIN & Liam Search and Rescue’s Mission to Rescue Dogs and People
07/02/2025
GRIN & Liam Search and Rescue’s Mission to Rescue Dogs and People
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.
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