In this episode of Toni Unleashed, Toni and Emily share their firsthand experience volunteering with Save a Friend Puerto Rico, 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:

• Save a Friend Puerto Rico

• Follow: @saveafriendpr

• Become a flight angel or support the mission through donations and fosters.

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.