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.

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

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/

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

In this engaging conversation, Toni Shelaske and Erik Senders discuss the intricacies of running a small business, particularly in the pet treat industry. They delve into the and the complexities of sourcing quality ingredients, challenges of warehouse operations, and the importance of customer service. Erik shares insights on the growth of his business, the dynamics of his team, and the expectations of customers, especially during peak seasons. The conversation is filled with humor and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. In this conversation, Toni Shelaske and Erik Senders discuss the challenges and rewards of running a small business, emphasizing the importance of personal relationships, product innovation, and team dynamics. They share insights on navigating industry changes, the significance of long-term employees, and the personal touch that small businesses bring to customer service. The conversation highlights the adaptability required in the face of challenges and the joy of watching employees grow within the company.

Emily Claire, Toni's former co-host and Cydnee Traversari her former producer join in house to talk about the sale of her company - Healthy Pet Products - and what's on the Horizon.  Listen in to hear how Toni gradually built her mission driven business with the support of so many passionate and dedicated employees along the way, nudges from the Universe and flying by the seat of her pants. 

Stay tuned to see what the future holds because Toni truly has no idea right now - LOL  - what she does know is the podcast will receive much more of the focus as well os her private label products. To see them visit www.toniunleashed.com 

In this Episode of Toni Unleashed, we talk with the NEW Healthy Pet Products owners Petagogy!

Petagogy is thrilled to welcome Healthy Pet Products into its family, combining over 15 years of pet health expertise with Petagogy's dedication to natural pet foods and wellness. This acquisition strengthens a shared mission to provide top-quality products and expert guidance across Pittsburgh and beyond. Customers can now shop at five convenient locations: Cranberry Township, McCandless, McMurray, East Liberty, and Greensburg.

Listen to hear how it all came about!

In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni interviews Dr. Caroline and Howard Simard-Swimmer, founders of Pets After Dark, an after-hours tele-health service for pets. They explain how their service helps pet parents handle nighttime emergencies by connecting them to a vet when regular clinics are closed.

Learn how this innovative solution provides guidance for non-urgent issues and streamlines the process if emergency care is needed.

Tune in to discover how Pets After Dark is changing the game for Pittsburgh pet owners!

In this episode of *Toni Unleashed*, Toni chats with Erik Senders, founder of Mika & Sammy’s—a brand known for its top-notch, all-natural pet products. Erik shares how his dog Marley inspired the whole thing, turning a search for better treats into a successful business.

We talk about what makes Mika & Sammy’s stand out, from their slow-smoked bones to their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. If you're looking for healthy, safe products for your pet, this episode is a must-listen!

https://mikaandsammys.com/