Toni Unleashed

Toni Shelaske
  • 4.4 (50)
  • NUTRITION
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
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.

  1. 2D AGO

    Rooted in Joy: Storytelling, Identity, and Creative Community with Stephanie Garza

    In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske chats with Stephanie Garza, founder of Pup Pup and Away, a dog training and enrichment company based in San Antonio, Texas. Stephanie is a certified dog trainer, behaviorist, and nutritionist with over 18 years of experience in the pet care industry. Stephanie specializes in approaching behavior modification from a holistic standpoint combining positive reinforcement training techniques and holistic pet care. But most importantly, Stephanie is the proud dog mom to Sully and Reishi, her two Miniature Schnauzers.  Stephanie shares her path from elementary school teaching to launching her own canine-focused business rooted in positive reinforcement and fear-free methods. They discuss how Stephanie built her team, developed programs like day training and enrichment, and created a space where dogs can thrive without traditional punishment-based techniques. She also talks about the challenges of pet parent education and the importance of clear communication and realistic expectations. Stephanie and Toni dive into misconceptions around behavior training, the nuances of canine body language, and how enrichment activities can help prevent behavioral issues. With a strong focus on compassion—for both pets and people—Stephanie offers a refreshing take on what it means to support dogs holistically. Instagram: @stephtheprodogmom and @puppupandawaysa TikTok: @Stephtheprodogmom and @Puppupandawaysa Facebook: @PupPupAndAwaySA Website: www.PupPupAndAwaySA.com    Pup Pup & Away PAWdcast can be found on Spotify, iHeart Radio and Apple Podcast

    49 min

  2. APR 16

    Wheels of Hope: How Joey’s Paw Gives Mobility to Special-Needs Dogs

    In this episode of Toni Unleashed, host Toni Shelaske speaks with Tanya Diable, founder of Joey's Paw, an organization dedicated to helping special needs pets, particularly those requiring wheelchairs and prosthetics. Tanya shares the inspiring story of how Joey's Paw was founded, the challenges faced in securing funding, and the impact of their work on thousands of animals. The conversation covers the application process for pet owners seeking assistance, the importance of training pets to use wheelchairs, and heartwarming success stories of animals who have thrived with the help of Joey's Paw. Tanya also discusses upcoming fundraising events and the future aspirations of the organization. Joey's Paw’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for special-needs dogs by providing custom wheelchairs and prosthetics. Your support helps bring the joy of mobility and independence to these deserving pets. https://www.joeyspaw.org/ IG: @Joeys_paw FB: Joeys Paw Nonprofit Organization Email : joey.diable@yahoo.com Donations can be made through Facebook, website, PayPal or check. PayPal: //www.paypal.me/JoeysPAW Check: Joeys Paw 301 Belmont Rd Butler PA 16001

    35 min

  3. APR 9

    Food Safety First: How Lotus Pet Foods Tackles H5N1 and Prioritizes Pet Health

    In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni Shelaske welcomes Daron Matsuura, founder of Lotus Pet Foods, for a timely conversation on raw pet food safety in the wake of growing concerns over H5N1 (avian influenza). Daron outlines the extensive safety measures Lotus already has in place, including using human-grade ingredients, a validated High Pressure Pasteurization (HPP) process, and rigorous sanitation protocols. Daron shares how the company went a step further by partnering with a biosafety level 4 lab to test every batch of raw food for the H5N1 virus—an unprecedented move in the industry. They also discuss the importance of ingredient sourcing, with Daron detailing his recent trip to New Zealand to observe the humane and pasture-based farming practices used for Lotus’s venison and lamb. The episode also dives into the benefits of feeding raw and baked pet food, debunking common misconceptions around kibble and processed ingredients. Toni and Daron stress the need for transparency in labeling, the problems with “natural flavors,” and the value of choosing foods that prioritize health over profit. With nearly two decades of experience, Daron reaffirms Lotus’s commitment to food safety and animal wellness, making a strong case for thoughtful, science-backed nutrition in the pet world.

    43 min

  4. APR 2

    Global Pet Expo 25'

    In this episode of Toni Unleashed, host Toni Shelaske and guest Emily Claire discuss their experiences at the Global Pet Expo, highlighting unique products, retailer insights, and the importance of networking within the pet industry. They explore innovative pet products, sustainability efforts, and the significance of building relationships in the industry. The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities faced by retailers and the role of trade shows in fostering community and collaboration among pet professionals. In this conversation, Toni and Emily explore various themes related to the pet industry, including the joy of customization in pet products, innovative retail strategies, the importance of community engagement, and the need for education in dog grooming. Toni also brings us two interviews live from Global Pet Expo with Mike Palmer from Premier Pet Supply, and Ada Lopez from Dog Groomer Academy.

    1h 3m
  5. The Izzie Fund

    MAR 26

    The Izzie Fund

    In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni sits down with Victoria Chester, founder of The Izzie Fund, to discuss her journey in creating a nonprofit dedicated to helping pet owners afford specialized veterinary care. Inspired by her late dog, Izzie, Victoria shares how her experience navigating costly treatments led her to establish a fund that ensures other pet owners don’t have to make heartbreaking decisions based solely on finances. Victoria details the challenges and successes of running a small but impactful nonprofit, from fundraising and grant applications to building a strong support network. She shares emotional stories of the pets The Izzie Fund has helped and highlights the growing need for financial assistance in veterinary care. The conversation also covers the upcoming Izzie Fund Birthday Bash, the nonprofit’s participation in the Pittsburgh Marathon, and how listeners can get involved through donations, sponsorships, or volunteering. With passion and purpose, Victoria and Toni emphasize the importance of community support in keeping pets and their families together. The Izabela Dior Bouvier Foundation (operating as The Izzie Fund) exists to provide financial support to responsible dog owners when there are still medical options recommended and available. theizziefund.org

    53 min

  6. MAR 18

    Women in Leadership & the Pet Industry

    In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni sits down with Rebecca Rose, owner of In Clover Supplements, for a conversation in honor of Women’s History Month. They explore the evolving role of women in the pet industry, from leadership challenges to the progress made over the years. Rebecca shares her journey from biotechnology to pet supplements, highlighting the gender disparities she encountered and how she overcame them. Toni and Rebecca discuss the importance of mentorship, amplifying women’s voices, and the unconscious biases that still exist in leadership. They also examine the broader impact of women in the pet industry, from retail to distribution, and the need for more representation at executive levels. With humor and insight, they reflect on the power of collaboration, support, and advocacy in driving meaningful change. https://shop.inclover.com/

    43 min

  7. MAR 12

    Practical Advice for Transitioning to Raw Food

    In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni welcomes her niece, Natalie, for a candid discussion on their journey with pet nutrition. They trace their shift from conventional kibble to raw feeding, spurred by the eye-opening documentary Pet Fooled. Natalie shares how raw food transformed her dogs' health, from digestion to coat quality, and addresses common concerns about cost, safety, and veterinary skepticism. They also explore the benefits of titer testing over routine vaccinations and offer practical advice for pet owners considering a diet change. With humor and personal anecdotes, Toni and Natalie highlight the importance of informed feeding choices and the impact of quality nutrition on pet health. Check out "Pet Fooled" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5XC1rUWWnxI

    42 min

  8. MAR 5

    Understanding the Rising Costs of Veterinary Care

    In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni sits down with Dr. Caroline Simard - Swimmer and Howard Swimmer from Pets After Dark to discuss the complexities surrounding veterinary care, focusing on the rising costs, the influence of corporate practices, and the challenges faced by veterinary professionals. The conversation delves into the dichotomy between veterinary and human medicine, the importance of support staff, and the necessity of effective communication with pet owners. Potential solutions to improve affordability and accessibility in veterinary care are also explored, emphasizing the need for a balance between quality care and cost. This conversation explores the challenges and solutions in providing accessible veterinary care, the impact of corporate ownership in veterinary medicine, and the importance of compassion in the industry. Guests Caroline and Howard discuss initiatives to improve access to care for pet owners, the evolving landscape of veterinary healthcare, and the need for transparency and humanity in corporate practices. Check out MyPetsAfterDark.com, use coupon code "Toni" at checkout for a free month!

    1h 3m
See All (83)

4.4
out of 5
50 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Toni Shelaske
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    83
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2022
  • Show Website
    Toni Unleashed

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