In this episode of Tails & Tones, Mariska brings her art world and pet-parent journey together to explore DIY art projects you can create with your dog. From safe, non-toxic pawprint masterpieces to hilarious lick-art abstracts, she shares practical tips, safety considerations, and creative ideas for turning your dog’s paws and personality into meaningful keepsakes and functional art. Along the way, she opens up about the R&D journey behind Tails & Tones’ first product elevated food and water station.

• Why making art with your dog is powerful enrichment and a bonding experience.
• The importance of using pet-safe, non-toxic materials (and why most studio art supplies aren’t dog-safe).
• Two main ways to create pawprints safely: No-mess baby handprint/footprint kits for clean, crisp prints and Mideer Super Washable Finger Paint for colorful, washable paw art.
• Classic pawprint masterpieces
• Lick Art using canvas, cling film, and peanut butter or yogurt.
• How to turn your dog’s art into functional pieces like mugs, coasters, bowls, and holiday gifts.
• Behind-the-scenes look at Tails & Tones’ sustainable product journey, especially the upcoming elevated bowl for flat-faced and mobility-sensitive dog

• Tails & Tones on Instagram: @tailsandtones
• Where Tails meet hearts: Monty, Lola and Amy @amyqzak (Monty's video that was shared on The Dodo)
• Paw-lebrity of the Week: Pharaby & Jen @pharaby_fable, Pharaby's Art, YouTube
• Review the podcast on Podchaser
• The Dodo (featured Monty’s video): The Dodo
• FluentPet talking buttons: FluentPet
• Tails & Tones Elevated Bowl Waitlist

[00:00]-Intro

[01:10] – Big news: Tails & Tones product update

[06:30] – Why make art with your dog?

[09:00] – Safety first: pet-safe art supplies

[13:30] – Pawprint Masterpiece (No-mess & paint versions)

[20:30] – Lick Art abstract painting

[25:30] – Turning pet art into functional gifts

[27:30] – Where Tails Meet Hearts

[30:00] – Paw-lebrity of the Week

In this episode of Tails and Tones, Mariska Nell and Tori Mistick discuss the journey of turning a passion for dogs into a thriving business. Tori shares her experiences in building her brand, Wear Wag Repeat, and offers insights on monetizing pet accounts, the importance of authenticity, and the evolving landscape of pet influencing. They emphasize the significance of community, effective branding, and the resurgence of long-form content in engaging audiences. Tori also highlights the necessity of starting an email list and building genuine relationships within the pet industry.

Tori Mistick is a dog mom, blogger, podcast host, and the founder of Wear Wag Repeat. With over a decade of experience creating content for pet lovers, Tori helps pet parents enrich their dogs’ lives and supports “petpreneurs” in growing their businesses online. She’s also a Certified Canine Enrichment Technician and recently launched her limited-series podcast Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick, which dives deep into the science and joy of helping dogs live their best lives.

• Believing in your passion is the first step to success.
• Collaboration is key in building relationships in the pet industry.
• Monetization can be slow; passion is essential for longevity.
• Follower count does not equate to revenue in pet influencing.
• Authenticity in content creation builds trust with your audience.
• Long-form content is making a comeback in the digital space.
• Building an email list is crucial for long-term engagement.
• Branding should evoke feelings and connect with your audience.
• Networking and genuine outreach can foster community growth.
• Diversifying income streams is important for pet influencers.

Tori's Website Wear Wag Repeat, Wear Wag Repeat Podcast

Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick Podcast

Mental Enrichment Activity Pack ($19)

Instagram: @wearwagrepeat @tmistick

[00:00]-Intro

[02:30] – Tori’s Origin Story

[03:44] – Hobby vs. Business Moment

[05:11] – First Paid Campaign

[07:16] – Passion vs. Profit (Early Challenges)

[09:05] – Where to Start Monetizing

[10:46] – Reality Check on Earnings

[14:57] – Diversify

[16:04] – Mindset Shift to “Brand”

[18:25] – Safety & Responsibility

[20:01] – Be Authentically Where You Are

[22:05] – Funding & Founder Transparency

[23:36] – What Branding Really Means in Pets

[26:08] – Content Quality & “Post the Bad Stuff”

[28:10] – Consistency System

[29:54] – Platforms, AI & Owning Your Audience

[32:01] – Community That Lasts

[36:19] – Long-Form Comeback

[39:31] – One Thing to Do Today

[39:38] – Where to Find Tori

[40:52] – Tori’s Enrichment Podcast

In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska dives into the world of French Bulldogs, exploring their rising popularity, the joys and challenges of owning one, and the significant health issues associated with the breed. Through personal anecdotes and expert insights, she emphasizes the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for awareness about the breed's health concerns. The episode also features heartwarming stories from the dog-loving community, showcasing the unique bond between Frenchies and their owners.

• French Bulldogs are incredibly popular but come with significant health issues.
• Owning a French Bulldog can cost around $15,000 a year.
• They are affectionate, loyal, and great companions for apartment living.
• Frenchies are prone to overheating and breathing difficulties due to their brachycephalic nature.
• Many French Bulldogs do not live long lives due to health complications.
• Responsible breeding practices are crucial for the health of the breed.
• Adopting a French Bulldog is often better than buying from breeders.
• Regular vet check-ups and health insurance are essential for Frenchie owners.
• French Bulldogs require special care, including monitoring during hot weather.
• Despite their challenges, French Bulldogs bring immense joy and love to their owners.

Breed-to-Breathe Campaign — British Veterinary Association

Where Tails meet hearts: Freddie & Bruno (Freddie line up toys, Bruno Freddie's #1 fan)

Paw-lebrity of the Week Griffin & Haru (Pixar Animation Studios adventures, Tiffani Thiessen Colab, )

Cooling Tips with Dr Sarah — Episode 15

[00:00] - Intro

[02:15] - Popularity + rescues trend:

[03:10] – The $15k rule (cost reality)

[04:05] – Origins: Toy bulldogs → France: Lace workers, toy bulldogs, refined in France.

[05:15] – Why they became trendy: Apartment-friendly size, bat ears, baby-face expression.

[06:05] – Celebs & AKC popularity: Lady Gaga, The Rock, Tom Hardy; AKC chart topper.

[06:44] – Fun fact: Most Frenchies can’t swim: Piper’s ocean scare + water safety.

[07:35] – Gas & other “truths”: The “wherever your gas be free” motto.

[08:05] – AKC colors vs. rare colors: 9 official colors vs. ~30+ combos (lilac, blue, merle).

[08:58] – “Pocket rockets” weight & density: Piper at ~12 kg / 26 lb; why they sink.

[09:40] – Lifespan (healthy, well-bred): 10–12 years with big variance.

[10:10] – PROS: Personality & daily life: Clown dogs; affection, loyalty, shadow tendencies.

[11:30] – PROS: Grooming & care routine: Shedding, ear/fold cleaning, paw/nose balm.

[12:35] – CONS: Brachycephalic basics: Short skull anatomy → breathing challenges.

[13:40] – BOAS surgery (Piper’s story): What it is, results, costs, ethics of comfort.

[15:05] – Overheating: what to do/avoid: Cool feet/belly, A/C; don’t cover with cold towel.

[16:10] – Price tag, breeding, C-sections: Why overbreeding happens; risks and costs.

[17:05] – BVA “Breed to Breathe” + overbreeding: Awareness, ~3,000% rise in the UK.

[18:05] – Walking/harness fit & monitoring: Harness over collar; tongue/resp rate checks.

[18:50] – IVDD: risks, signs, prevention: No jumping; stairs/ramp; signs, treatment paths.

[20:15] – Allergies: triggers & management: Grass/pollen/food; wipes, antihistamines.

[21:20] – Insurance/savings & regional notes: Australia vs. UAE approach.

[22:05] – Final thoughts: love + responsibility: Choose with eyes open; commitment matters.

[23:10] – Where Tails meet hearts: Freddie & Bruno (Freddie line up toys, Bruno Freddie's #1 fan)

[24:10] – Paw-lebrity of the Week Griffin & Haru (Pixar Animation Studios adventures, Tiffani Thiessen Colab, )

In this episode of Tails & Tones, host Mariska Nell and Tori Mistick of Wear Wag Repeat explore how daily enrichment transforms your dog’s emotional health and confidence. Learn simple, practical ways to enrich your dog’s day, strengthen your bond, and bring more joy to both of your lives.

Tori Mistick is a dog mom, blogger, podcast host, and the founder of Wear Wag Repeat. With over a decade of experience creating content for pet lovers, Tori helps pet parents enrich their dogs’ lives and supports “petpreneurs” in growing their businesses online. She’s also a Certified Canine Enrichment Technician and recently launched her limited-series podcast Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick, which dives deep into the science and joy of helping dogs live their best lives.

• Enrichment is connection, not distraction. It’s about understanding your dog’s emotions, not just keeping them busy.
• Small choices build confidence. Let your dog pick between treats, directions on a walk, or how they’d like to spend time with you.
• Balance is key. Mix active enrichment (sniff walks, games) with calm bonding (gentle petting, sound baths).
• DIY can be powerful. Muffin tins, towel burritos, and busy boxes make enrichment easy and low-cost.
• Presence matters most. True enrichment starts when we slow down and meet our dogs where they are.

Tori's Website Wear Wag Repeat, Wear Wag Repeat Podcast

Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick Podcast

Mental Enrichment Activity Pack ($19)

Instagram: @wearwagrepeat @tmistick

[00:00]-Intro: What true enrichment means

[01:44] - Meet Tori Mistick & her canine journey

[05:03] - Redefining enrichment beyond puzzles

[08:13] - Building your dog’s confidence through small choices

[10:30] - Trick training as a confidence booster

[13:59] - Enrichment for puppies, adults & seniors

[17:15] - Burt’s story: From anxiety to confidence

[21:14] - Enrichment as therapy for anxious dogs

[23:44] - Using music and calm environments for recovery

[25:06] - Meeting emotional needs & avoiding overstimulation

[27:47] - Enrichment for busy pet parents

[31:37] - 3 Low-cost DIY enrichment ideas

[34:01] - The one toy worth splurging on

[35:07] - Tori’s biggest enrichment advice for pet parents

[36:29] - One small action to help your dog feel seen

[37:23] - The Mental Enrichment Activity Pack

[38:22] - Where to find Tori?

[39:23] - Outro: Turning love into enrichment

In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell unpacks what you should really be looking for when choosing a dog — beyond just the cutest breed on Instagram. From energy levels and lifestyle fit to financial readiness and long-term commitment, Mariska shares practical tips (and personal lessons from life with her Frenchie, Piper 🐶) to help you find your perfect canine match.

She also explores dog breed tendencies using insights from Kim Brophey’s book Meet Your Dog, breaking down 10 canine categories to understand how instincts and personalities shape compatibility. Whether you’re adopting, shopping, or still dreaming about your future pup, this episode will help you choose with both your head and heart.

• Match first, breed second: A great fit reduces frustration, behavior issues, and rehoming risk.
• Know your energy + time: High-drive dogs need work, purpose, and movement. Low-key households should choose accordingly.
• Budget honestly: Some breeds can be costly; plan for vet care, training, nutrition, and insurance.
• Life changes matter: Think travel, kids, moves, retirement—pick a dog you can support through seasons.
• Tendencies ≠ destiny: Even within a breed, personalities vary. Respect the individual in front of you.
• Use categories as a compass: Brophey’s groupings (e.g., sighthounds, guardians, toys, herders, bulldogs, terriers, gundogs, scent hounds, “natural,” and “world dogs”) help you predict instincts and needs.

Meet your Dog Book by Kim Brophey

Episode 11: Adopt or Shop

Where Tails Meet Heart Stories

• What About Bunny
• 3 Snouts and their abouts
• Doug The Pug
• Crusoe The Dachshund
• Dino and Ruby
• Jason Heigl Foundation
• Father João
• Kelbie and Nixie
• Magie and Gus
• Meemaw - 1510 Foundation
• Elko The Travel Dog
• Litter Logie

Paw-Lebrities

• Haya_London
• Eroc Dog
• Cricket the gremlin
• Koa The Doodle
• Gnocchi The Frenchie
• LouLou the Pug
• Dolly Pawton
• Tuna Melts Hearts
• Some Frenchie Named Apollo
• The Kevin and Kayla Show
• Leo
• Billy The Kid
• Payt & The Doods

[00:00]- Intro

[01:11]- Welcome + adopt vs. shop (see Ep 11)

[03:10]- Rescue vs reputable breeder: what matching can look like

[04:40]- When the match is right: joy, ease, fewer issues

[05:20]- When it’s wrong: unmet needs, guilt, burnout, rehoming risk

[06:50]- Piper’s story: making a non-obvious fit work (stroller runs!)

[09:46]- The money talk: planning realistically for care

[10:50]- Thinking long-term: lifespan and life changes

[14:08]- Breed tendencies 101 + Kim Brophey’s categories overview

[27:45]- Community segments: Where Tails Meet Hearts & Paw-lebrity

[32:52]- Final message: partnership over perfection

In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell discusses the importance of choosing the right dog walker for your furry friend. She emphasizes understanding your dog's unique needs, the qualities to look for in a dog walker, and the importance of building a relationship with them. The episode also includes a product review of a dog bed and heartwarming stories about dogs making a difference in their communities.

• Choosing the right dog walker is crucial for your dog's well-being.
• Understand your dog's needs before selecting a walker.
• Look for reliability, experience, and communication in a dog walker.
• Trial walks can help determine if a walker is a good fit.
• Trust your dog's instincts when meeting a new walker.
• Communication with your dog walker is essential for your dog's happiness.
• Be aware of red flags when vetting potential walkers.
• Your dog is part of your family; choose wisely.
• Building a relationship with your dog walker is important.
• A good dog walker can provide peace of mind for pet parents.

Fetch or Forget: Snooza Cotton Canvas Futon

Where Tails meet hearts - Litter Logie

Paw-lebrity of the Week -Winston and Cooper aka the Doods, Dood Winston

[00:00]-Intro

[02:14]- Choosing the Right Dog Walker

[04:57]- Qualities of a Good Dog Walker

[07:54]- Vetting Potential Dog Walkers

[10:29]- Trial Walks and Red Flags

[13:50]- Building a Relationship with Your Dog Walker

[16:40]- Fetch or Forget: Snooza Cotton Canvas Futon

[19:31]- Where Tails meet hearts - Litter Logie

[20:37]- Paw-lebrity of the Week -Winston and Cooper aka the Doods, Dood Winston

[22:36]- Final Thoughts

In this conversation, Mariska Nell interviews Jennifer Muldowney, known as the Glam Reaper, who specializes in funeral planning and pet loss grief. Jennifer shares her journey into the funeral space, the importance of advocating for pet loss, and the emotional complexities surrounding grief. They discuss the societal hierarchy of grief, the need for safe spaces for grieving individuals, and how to involve pets in memorials. Jennifer also addresses the difficult decisions surrounding euthanasia and offers insights on memorializing pets. The conversation concludes with thoughts on when to consider getting another pet and the importance of honoring the memory of lost companions.

Jennifer Muldowney — better known as The Glam Reaper — is an Irish award-winning memorial planner, celebrant, and TEDx speaker who’s redefining how we talk about loss. After experiencing personal grief herself, Jennifer combined her background in event planning with a deep passion for supporting others, creating ceremonies that are as unique as the lives they honor. She’s the author of Say Farewell Your Way, the voice behind The Glam Reaper Podcast, and an advocate for mental health within the funeral profession. Alongside her work with Muldowney Memorials and Funeral Professionals Peer Support, Jennifer helps families and pet parents alike find comfort, healing, and even moments of lightness during life’s hardest goodbyes.

• Jennifer Muldowney is known as the Glam Reaper, specializing in funeral planning.
• She advocates for recognizing pet loss as a significant grief experience.
• Grief is often judged by a hierarchy, which can invalidate pet loss.
• Creating safe spaces for grieving individuals is essential.
• Involving pets in memorials can help in the grieving process.
• Euthanasia decisions are complex and should be approached with care.
• Memorializing pets can take many forms, including ceremonies and keepsakes.
• There is no right or wrong way to grieve or memorialize a pet.
• The love for a pet does not replace but expands with new companions.
• It's important to check local laws regarding pet burials and memorials.

Jennifer's website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn

The Glam Reaper podcast

TedX Talk

Jon Steward's video

[00:00]- Intro

[03:03]- The Journey into Funeral Planning

[05:52]- Advocating for Pet Loss Grief

[09:10]- Understanding Grief Hierarchies

[11:48]- Creating Safe Spaces for Grief

[14:43]- Involving Pets in the Grieving Process

[19:55]- Incorporating Pets in Farewells

[22:45]- Navigating Difficult Decisions

[25:42]- Creative Memorials for Pets

[29:27]- Honoring Pets and the Grieving Process

[34:39]- The Journey of Love and Loss

In this episode, Dr. Sarah Ramsey shares her extensive experience in veterinary medicine, discussing the importance of specialized care for pets, emergency preparedness, and essential first aid skills for pet owners. She emphasizes the need for proper veterinary care, including routine check-ups and vaccinations, while also providing practical advice on creating emergency kits and knowing when to seek professional help. Dr. Ramsey's insights aim to empower pet owners to take proactive steps in ensuring their pets' health and safety.

Dr. Sarah Ramsey, originally from West Sussex in the UK, graduated from The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh in 2006 and also holds a degree in Parasitology from Glasgow University. She has practiced acupuncture since 2007, is a member of the ABVA, and earned her Certificate in Small Animal Medicine from the University of Liverpool in 2016, later achieving Advanced Veterinary Practitioner status in 2022. With a special interest in feline medicine, oncology, pain management, and end-of-life care, Dr. Sarah has held senior roles including Clinical Director of a two-site practice in the UK and Head of Medicine at a London small animal hospital. She relocated to the UAE in 2021 with her husband, two children, and a growing rescue family of cats, alongside her Bedlington Whippet, Snowy, and a tortoise named Taco. Beyond veterinary medicine, she is a passionate runner, ultramarathon finisher, yoga practitioner, and stand-up paddleboarder, with recent adventures in aerial gymnastics and a goal of completing a triathlon within the next year.

• Dr. Sarah Ramsey has nearly 30 years of experience in veterinary medicine.
• Understanding veterinary specializations helps in choosing the right care for pets.
• Emergency kits for pets should include saline, gauze, and vet wrap.
• Basic first aid skills can save a pet's life in emergencies.
• Knowing when to seek veterinary care is crucial for pet health.
• Routine veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection of health issues.
• Vaccination schedules may vary by region and should be discussed with a vet.
• Pet owners should be aware of their pets' specific health needs and risks.
• Regular blood work can help monitor chronic conditions in pets.
• Creating a customized emergency kit for pets is important for preparedness.

At-Home Emergency Kit

• Gloves (latex or nitrile) – to keep your hands clean and safe.
• Saline pods/pipettes – safe for cleaning wounds and eyes.
• Sterile gauze – apply pressure and stop bleeding.
• Vet wrap (self-adhering bandage) – to secure gauze/dressings (sticks to itself, not fur).
• Muzzle or strong tape for a makeshift muzzle – for safety if your pet is in pain.
• Tick hook – safe removal of ticks without leaving parts behind.
• Tweezers – for removing thorns, splinters, or foreign bodies.
• Cotton buds – useful for cleaning small areas, like removing grass seeds.
• Styptic powder - to stop bleeding from nails, ears, or tails.
• Elizabethan collar (cone) – to prevent licking/ingesting toxins or cleaning wounds.

On-the-Go / Walk & Travel Kit (Mini Version)

• Saline pod – for quick wound or eye cleaning.
• Sterile gauze – for immediate coverage of cuts or stings.
• Vet wrap – to hold gauze in place.
• Muzzle tape – lightweight safety option.
• Antihistamines (chlorphenamine / “Piriton”) – especially if your dog has known allergies (4mg tablet for medium/large dogs, ½ tablet for small dogs/cats; expect drowsiness as a side effect).
• Water bottle – for flushing wounds, burns, or helping with heat stroke.
• (Optional for hikes/desert walks: extra antihistamines, spare bandage, tick hook.)

Special Additions / Situational Items

• Chronic condition meds – e.g., seizure medication for epileptic dogs.
• Burn care – clean water only (never dressings).
• Heatstroke care – water, shade, portable fan, cooling jacket/towel (used correctly).
• Allergy-prone pets – antihistamines carried at all times.
• Snake bite care – saline for flushing, never tourniquets.

Dr Well Website, Instagram

[00:00]-Intro

[02:04]- Understanding Veterinary Specializations

[03:57]- Emergency Preparedness for Pets

[10:03]- Essential Items for Pet Emergency Kits

[15:59]- First Aid Skills Every Pet Parent Should Know

[23:40]- Essential First Aid Techniques for Pets

[25:31]- Handling Toxic Ingestions and Heat Stroke

[29:47]- Real-Life Emergency Scenarios and Preparedness

[31:31]- Understanding Snake Bites and Prevention

[33:34]- Customizing First Aid Kits for Different Pets

[36:39]- When to Seek Veterinary Help

[40:01]- Routine Veterinary Care and Vaccination Schedules

In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska discusses the importance of planning for your dog's future, particularly in selecting a godparent who can care for your pet if something happens to you. She emphasizes the need for responsible planning, including financial considerations and ensuring the chosen godparent shares your values and love for dogs. The episode also features heartwarming stories from the pet community and encourages listeners to celebrate their pets and the bonds they share.

• Have you ever wondered who would care for your pup?
• Choosing a godparent for your pup is responsible.
• Life happens, accidents happen, illness happens.
• We can still be there for them.
• Does this person have the time, energy, and finances?
• Look for someone who truly loves dogs.
• Make it a joyful moment.
• This is not about being morbid.
• You're giving your pup the gift of security.

Fetch or Forget - FURminator

Where Tails meet hearts - Elko's journey on Away on Earth

Paw-lebrity of the Week - Billy the Kid

[00:00]-Intro

[13:19]- Choosing the Right Godparent

[14:12]- Fetch or Forget - FURminator

[20:45]- Where Tails meet hearts - Elko's journey on Away on Earth

[23:07]- Paw-lebrity of the Week - Billy the Kid

In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell speaks with Yvonne Senden, the founder of Doggie Adventures, about her journey in creating a dog-friendly community in the UAE. They discuss the challenges of dog ownership in the region, the importance of public etiquette, and the exciting initiatives like Leash Explorer and WoofStock that promote responsible pet ownership and community engagement. Yvonne shares her insights on how to make the UAE more dog-friendly and the responsibilities that come with being a dog owner.

Doggie Adventures (Website, Instagram, Youtube)

Leash Explorer (Website, Instagram)

WoofStock (Website, Instagram)

• Doggie Adventures was founded to create a better life for dogs in the UAE.
• Public etiquette is crucial for responsible dog ownership.
• Leash Explorer offers exciting adventures for dogs and their owners.
• WoofStock is a festival dedicated to dogs and their well-being.
• Community engagement is key to making the UAE more dog-friendly.
• Dog owners must respect public spaces and other people's comfort.
• Education about dog behavior is essential for both owners and the community.
• Creating a directory of dog-friendly places helps pet owners navigate the UAE.
• Yvonne emphasizes the importance of responsible pet ownership.
• Future initiatives aim to enhance the dog-friendly community in the UAE.

[00:00]- Introduction to Yvonne and Doggie Adventures

[03:23]- The Journey of Doggie Adventures

[06:04]- Challenges of Dog Ownership in the UAE

[08:50]- Public Etiquette and Responsibility of Dog Owners

[11:26]- Community Engagement and Advocacy for Dog-Friendly Spaces

[14:19]- Navigating Dog Etiquette in Public Spaces

[19:36]- Consultations and Community Engagement

[20:22]- Introducing Leash Explorer

[21:51]- The Annual Challenge and Activities

[23:17]- Inclusivity in Dog Activities

[25:29]- Planning Hikes for All Dogs

[27:27]- Creating Wolf Stock: A Dog Festival

[31:48]- Making Communities Dog-Friendly

[35:46]- Future Plans and Community Feedback

[38:16]- The Power of One: Inspiring Change Through Love

[39:07]- Creating Welcoming Spaces for Dogs and Humans