Explore every episode of the podcast Tails and Tones
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40: Doodle Coat Care Secrets with Elina Panteleyeva | 02 Oct 2026 | 00:26:16 | |
TL;DR On Episode 40 of Tails and Tones, Dood Woof founder Elina Panteleyeva explains why doodle coats mat faster than other breeds and how her brand, used by 70,000+ doodle owners, fixes it with daily detangling and clean-label ingredients. Guest Bio:Elina Panteleyeva is the founder of Dood Woof, a natural grooming and coat-care brand built exclusively for doodles. After being laid off from her tech job in 2023, she and her Blue-Eyed Tri-Colored Mini Bernedoodle, Oscar, set out to solve his constant matting with clean, human-grade ingredients instead of harsh chemicals. Dood Woof has since been used by more than 70,000 doodle owners and partners with Doodle Dandy Rescue, donating a portion of every purchase to rescue, rehab, and rehome doodles in need. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode:
Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00] Intro [03:09] Elina introduces herself and Dood Woof [04:15] The moment Oscar's matting problem sparked the business [06:43] From an AI and tech career to formulating a grooming product [08:46] Why doodle coats mat so much more than other breeds [09:33] Elina's bathing and grooming routine with Oscar [10:40] The most common mistake doodle owners make [12:20] Ingredient red flags to look for on the label [13:52] What to do, and never do, with a stubborn mat [16:10] The biggest grooming myth doodle owners believe [17:24] The Doodle Dandy Rescue partnership [18:15] Marty's story: from chained and aggressive to a loving home [19:16] What Oscar has taught Elina about building a business [20:43] One sentence of advice for every new doodle parent [21:13] Oscar's quirks: the doodle who "understands English" [23:13] Where to find Dood Woof and Elina FAQ Why do doodles' coats mat so easily? Doodles have almost human-like hair that tangles the way ours does if it is not brushed, and their floppy ears trap moisture, which adds to allergy issues and helps mats form faster. How often should you bathe a doodle? Once a month is a reasonable baseline, more only if your dog smells or is itching. Washing daily strips natural oils and is not good for their coat, just like it is not for human hair. What ingredients should doodle owners avoid in grooming products? Watch out for names you cannot pronounce, like cyclomethicone, a silicone. Look instead for recognizable ingredients such as coconut-based cleanser and quinoa protein. What should you do if your doodle already has a big mat? Take them to a professional groomer to have it cut out safely. Detangler spray works to prevent daily tangles, but it will not dissolve an existing large mat. What brush works best for a doodle's coat? Start with a wire or metal comb to work through knots at the skin, then finish with a slicker brush. Elina points to the Chris Christensen brand as a solid, tested option. What's one thing every new doodle owner should do on day one? Start training early and get them comfortable with brushing and grooming right away. Doodles are smart and treat-motivated, and grooming only gets harder if they are scared of the brush or the groomer. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 39: Red Light Therapy & Why Dogs Need Light with Jackie Jolie | 04 Sep 2026 | 00:48:13 | |
TL;DR Jackie Jolie, founder of AnimaSol, explains why modern dogs are deficient in red and near-infrared light wavelengths due to spending 97% of their time indoors. She breaks down the quantum biology behind light therapy, why LED devices are as effective as expensive lasers, and shares how daily red light therapy improved Piper's mobility in two weeks. The episode covers protocols, speed of results, and why light is a foundational nutrient for dog health. Piper's discount code is PiperSol for your 10% discount During This Episode
Timestamps [00:00] - Intro: Does red light therapy for dogs actually work? [02:37] - Meet Jackie Jolie and her background in bodywork [05:43] - The turning point: Lyme disease discovery of quantum biology [08:08] - The science: How light hits mitochondria and changes biology [15:07] - LED vs Laser: Why they're the same therapy, different delivery [20:32] - Sprinkler vs Pressure Washer analogy explained [24:43] - Piper's story: Back leg improvement in two weeks [28:38] - Protocols: How often to use red light therapy and dosage guidelines [35:28] - Speed of results: Marley's paralysis story and arthritis improvements [41:50] - Biggest misconceptions about red light therapy [44:37] - Jackie's final message: Light is the foundation of health [46:05] - Where to find AnimaSol and resources Links from the Episode
Where Can People Find Our Guest?
Key Takeaways
FAQ Is red light therapy safe for dogs? Yes. LED red light therapy (like AnimaSol's products) is completely safe with zero contraindications. You cannot overdose on light therapy. Dogs cannot be harmed by the wavelengths used. Protective glasses are not required (unlike with lasers). How long before I see results? Results vary by condition. For arthritis and mobility issues: 5-10 days of daily use. For paralysis or severe conditions: 5 days to standing, 12 days to walking with intensive protocols (2x30 min daily). Some dogs show improvement within the first session. Is red light therapy expensive? AnimaSol's DogSol jackets are a fraction of the cost of laser therapy ($20,000-$50,000 per device). They're a one-time purchase with no ongoing vet appointment costs. Much more affordable than chronic supplement or medication management. Can I use it every day? Yes. In fact, you should. For prevention in healthy indoor dogs: once daily (15 minutes). For acute issues: up to twice daily (30 minutes each session) until improvement, then titrate down to daily maintenance. Can I overdo red light therapy? No. Due to biphasic dosing, there's a plateau where cells can only absorb so much light at once before needing time to process. You cannot cause harm or overdose with LED light therapy. What's the difference between laser and LED red light therapy? They're the same therapy (photobiomodulation) at the cellular level. Lasers are more powerful, more expensive ($20k-$50k), create thermal burn risk, and require protective glasses and professional administration. LEDs are wearable, safe to look at, affordable, and can be used at home. Same results, different delivery. How many wavelengths do I need? AnimaSol uses 5 wavelengths (2 red, 3 near-infrared) in a specific 2:1 ratio. Both red and near-infrared matter. Red penetrates superficially (good for wounds, hair growth). Near-infrared penetrates deep (good for joints, spine, bone marrow). Most products only have red, which limits effectiveness for deep issues. Will it help my dog's specific condition? Light therapy supports healing for nearly every condition (arthritis, paralysis, seizures, wound recovery, pain relief, mobility, digestion). That said, for serious diagnoses, Jackie recommends consulting her team for a personalized protocol. It works best as part of a whole-system approach (diet, movement, light, stress reduction). Do I need to consult a vet first? Most vets aren't trained in light therapy or quantum biology, so they may not recommend it. That doesn't mean it won't help. For cancer or extreme cases, Jackie recommends a consultation with her team to create a protocol that works alongside your vet's plan. Will light therapy replace my dog's other treatments? No, but it amplifies them. Light therapy works alongside supplements, physical therapy, medications, and dietary changes with zero contraindications. It makes everything else more effective. How often should I charge the device? A fully charged device gives you 8-10 sessions of 15 minutes each. Larger blankets take 8-10 hours to fully charge from dead battery. Smaller devices charge faster. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé... | |||
| 38: From Dog Account to Business, with Robin Waite | 07 Aug 2026 | 00:57:01 | |
TL;DR Business coach Robin Waite (Fearless Business) joins Mariska to break down why "exposure" isn't a payment plan, how raising your prices can mean selling less for the same profit, and why waiting for the perfect moment is quietly costing you customers. Plus: his Guinness World Record, his 4Ocean plastic pledge, and a live "build a 100K month" business plan. Guest Bio:Robin Waite is a UK-based business coach and the founder of Fearless Business. After 12 years running a marketing agency, he sold it in 2016 and has spent the last decade coaching entrepreneurs on pricing, positioning, and building profitable, sustainable businesses. He is the bestselling author of Take Your Shot and Fearless Pricing, has guested on over 300 podcasts, and has coached creators including Ali Abdaal and Simon Squibb. He also holds a Guinness World Record for taking part in the largest speed-networking event on record. Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode:
Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00] Intro [02:12] Who is Robin Waite [04:16] Robin's Guinness World Record [06:13] When does a hobby become a business [08:28] Why exposure isn't a business model [14:57] Building a pet business from zero [21:27] The biggest mistake creators make [25:32] Why waiting for perfect is costing you [28:59] The 3 Fs: Freedom, Fulfilment, Financial success [34:50] The pricing math that changes everything [39:08] The first 90 days of a crowdfund [42:24] Exhausted vs. out of options [47:52] What Wilbur and Twiggy taught him [49:14] There's never a perfect time to start [52:42] 4Ocean and building a business for good FAQ What is the difference between a hobby and a business, according to Robin Waite? Robin Waite says a hobby becomes a business once you're earning a living from it and can plan for it beyond the next three weeks, the point at which most people's forward planning naturally stops. Why doesn't Robin Waite recommend working for "exposure"? Because exposure alone is short-term and transactional. Robin recommends treating brand partnerships as long-term relationships built on trust, the kind that can eventually generate leads and revenue for years, as his relationship with Ali Abdaal did. What is Robin Waite's "one page business plan"? It's five questions: your dream monthly revenue, your product or service, your average sale price, the number of units needed to hit that revenue, and whether that demand is realistic to stimulate right now. Where can I find Robin Waite's Fearless Pricing Scorecard? At fearlesspricing.co.uk, alongside his book Fearless Pricing. His first book, Take Your Shot, is available through his Fearless Business site. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 37: How Dogs Build Better Kids: Responsibility, Enrichment & the Human-Dog Bond with Brian Manni of Pup O'Clock | 03 Jul 2026 | 00:35:39 | |
TL;DR Brian Manni, founder of Pup O'Clock, shares how watching his son grow up alongside their family pug, through bullying, family stress, and the ordinary hardships of childhood, inspired him to build a monthly subscription box that turns dog ownership into a hands-on lesson in responsibility, empathy, and discipline for kids. He explains why dogs returned to shelters are usually under-stimulated rather than "bad," why the one skill a child needs before a dog will truly respond to them is consistency, and why raising a dog with your kids builds better humans, not just better-behaved pets. Guest Bio:Brian Manni is the founder of Pup O'Clock, a monthly themed subscription box (with a nonprofit arm) designed to help families build deeper bonds between children and their dogs. Fuelled by his personal journey in sobriety and watching his son navigate childhood with a pug by his side, Brian built Pup O'Clock around the belief that the right tools — not good intentions — are what keep dogs in homes and out of shelters. His mission: reach one million families. Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode:
Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00] Intro [02:19] Brian introduces himself and the Pup O'Clock origin story [04:33] The specific moment that sparked it all — Brian's son and their family pug [08:15] Building the product: market research, the expert team (Dr. Daisy + Torri Mistick), and the response from shelters [12:03] What's inside the box? Trading cards, vet guides, enrichment activities, chore chart, and more [16:31] Getting kids off screens, the pendulum swung too far [18:50] The one skill a child needs for their dog to respond to them [20:36] Why variety matters, and how monthly themes keep kids engaged [25:46] The nonprofit side: why money alone doesn't solve the shelter return problem [27:34] Brian's big dream: 1 million families and a full entertainment company [29:18] The enrichment pivot, what changed everything [31:53] What this journey has taught Brian: sobriety, accountability, and building with his son [32:37] Where to find Pup O'Clock FAQ Is Pup O'Clock available outside the US? Not yet, Pup O'Clock currently ships to all 50 US states. What age is Pup O'Clock designed for? The boxes are designed to engage kids of all ages through themed activities, trading cards, and enrichment materials, with content that grows with them. How do I get a discount? Use code PIPER10 for 10% off, or check with your local shelter as Pup O'Clock regularly partners with shelters for promo codes. 6- and 12-month plans also include a built-in discount. What's inside the flagship box? Trading cards, a vet guide, an enrichment activity guide (Dog Detective), a responsibility contract, a gotcha certificate, a fridge chore chart (with marker), bandanas, stickers, and enrichment products from SodaPup. Is Pup O'Clock a nonprofit? Pup O'Clock has a nonprofit arm for those who want to donate. Every box also includes a built-in contribution back to a shelter, trainer, or organisation supporting the human-dog bond. Why do dogs end up back in shelters so often? Most returned dogs aren't dangerous or badly behaved by nature, they're under-stimulated, and without enrichment or the right tools, normal behaviours like chewing or barking spiral into a returned adoption. Why does my French Bulldog seem to get "picked on" by other dogs? Because of how they've been bred, many French Bulldogs and other brachycephalic breeds can't fully show their teeth or move their facial skin the way other dogs expect, so their attempts to communicate can be misread as aggression or confuse other dogs entirely. What's the one skill a child needs before a dog will actually listen to them? Discipline and consistency, a dog won't respond reliably to a child who engages only halfheartedly, but with consistent engagement over time, the relationship becomes natural and rewarding for both the child and the dog. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 36: Limping But Not in Pain? Why Your Dog's Discomfort Is Easier to Miss Than You Think with Dr. Ellie Lederer | 05 Jun 2026 | 00:50:02 | |
TL;DR Dr. Ellie Lederer, an ECVS board-certified small animal orthopedic surgeon at Umm Suqeim Veterinary Centre in Dubai and founder of MOVES, explains why the phrase "they're limping but they're not in pain" is almost never true, dogs and cats are simply wired to hide discomfort. She covers the subtle signs of joint pain most owners miss, why slippery flooring may contribute to hip dysplasia in puppies, when to stop "waiting and seeing" and get a vet involved, and confirms that feeding at the correct height and posture is clinically recommended for dogs with osteoarthritis, neck pain, or disc disease, while flagging that floor feeding puts unnecessary flexion and weight load through the front legs at every single meal. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ellie Lederer, an ECVS board-certified small animal orthopedic surgeon, and the founder of MOVES, a free online orthopaedic journal club for vets across the Middle East. We get into the subtle signs that your dog might be in more pain than they're letting on, the most common orthopedic conditions in small dogs, what slippery floors are actually doing to your puppy's hips, when waiting is fine versus when you really need to see a vet, and, something that is incredibly close to my heart, why feeding posture matters so much more than most of us realise, especially for dogs already navigating joint issues. Guest Bio:Our guest today is Dr. Ellie Lederer, an ECVS board-certified small animal orthopedic surgeon currently running a referral orthopaedic service at Umm Suqeim Veterinary Centre in Dubai. She specialises in joint replacements, fracture repair, cruciate disease, elbow disease, and all things bones and joints in dogs and cats. With two decades of veterinary experience, five years of training followed by fifteen years in practice, including a full residency in the UK Dr. Ellie holds one of the highest qualifications available in her field. She is also the founder of MOVES (Middle Eastern Orthopaedics Veterinary Excellence Society), a free online journal club designed to improve clinical outcomes for pets across the UAE by making the latest research accessible to vets in practice. Outside the operating theatre, she competed as a contender on the BBC reboot of Gladiators and is an avid bagpipe player, which, as it turns out, is excellent training for surgery. Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode:
Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00]-Intro [02:30] BBC Gladiators, bagpipes, and what they have in common with surgery [04:25] What does ECVS board-certified actually mean? Breaking down the credential [06:34] The difference between "specialist" in the UK vs UAE, and why it matters when choosing a vet [07:04] What drew Dr. Ellie to orthopedics, putting things back together and keeping pets pain-free [07:56] How do you actually know if your dog is in pain? The signs most owners miss [09:10] "They're limbing but they're not in pain", why this breaks Dr. Ellie's heart (and why it's almost never true) [11:22] More hidden pain signals: licking joints, reluctance to exercise, lying down on walks [12:47] Mariska's own story, Piper becoming snappy with dogs, and how pain was the real reason [13:35] Hip pain and behaviour at daycare, why irritability with other dogs is a common red flag [15:17] The most common orthopedic conditions in small dogs, luxating patella, cruciate disease, elbow disease [16:13] How luxating patella (dislocating kneecap) actually works, and why grade matters [17:58] Piper's grade 3 luxating patella — Mariska's story, the snap in the park, and the physio she wishes she'd prioritised [19:15] Traumatic vs developmental patella luxation, and "let dogs be dogs" (the guilt-free moment) [21:00] Community question: can running (zoomies) on tiles cause joint trauma or luxating patella? [21:13] The hip dysplasia + slippery floors study, and why runner rugs are a simple fix [23:37] Wait and see, when is it fine and when is it a problem? [25:18] "I'm the same", Dr. Ellie as a pet owner, and why going to the vet is never a waste [26:09] Which breeds walk through Dr. Ellie's door most? Labradors, French Bulldogs, Dachshunds, and more [28:42] Community question: does early neutering (7–8 months) negatively affect body development in Pomeranians? [29:08] How neutering affects calorie needs, hormones, joint development, and cancer risk, and why it's breed-specific [32:36] Chemical castration, the reversible implant option most people don't know about [33:43] MOVES: Dr. Ellie's free online orthopaedic journal club for vets across the Middle East [34:47] Feeding posture, what is actually happening in your dog's body when they eat from the floor? [35:08] Why Dr. Ellie recommends elevated feeding for dogs with osteoarthritis, neck pain, and disc disease [36:26] The French Bulldog head weight question, proportionally, how much pressure does that big head put on their front legs? [37:46] Elevated feeding for senior dogs, esophageal motility, aspiration risk, and why height helps [39:16] The 60/40 rule, how weight should be distributed across your dog's limbs at mealtime [40:48] How high should the bowl actually be? The ergonomic posture principle [41:38] "If your dog is getting into an extreme posture to eat, trying an elevated feeding bowl seems like a sensible step." [42:22] The one thing Dr. Ellie wishes every dog parent knew before their first orthopedic appointment [42:36] Biggest misconception revisited, "they're limbing but they're not in pain" and why early intervention changes outcomes [44:04] Quality of life with arthritis, body condition scoring, keeping dogs lean, and what's actually possible [46:41] Where to find Dr. Ellie, Instagram, YouTube, MOVES, and the new joint replacement program FAQ Is it true that my dog can limp without being in pain? Almost never, roughly 99% of the time, a limp or lameness in a dog signals pain, with the rare exception being a structural leg-length difference that creates an asymmetrical gait without discomfort. What are the subtle signs that my dog might be in pain? Look for reluctance to jump onto furniture they used to love, stiffness when rising, sudden changes in sociability (more aloof or more clingy), snapping or irritability around other dogs, or lying down partway through a walk. Can slippery floors really affect my puppy's hip development? There is a study suggesting that raising puppies on slippery flooring could be a contributing factor in the development of hip dysplasia, and adding runner rugs along main walking paths is a simple way to give puppies better traction. How long should I wait before taking a limping dog to the vet? Rest your dog for a day first, similar to how you'd treat a minor strain in yourself, but if the limp persists beyond a week, keeps returning on the same leg, or... | |||
| 35: Understanding Dog Behavior, The Hidden Link Between Pain, Emotions & Reactivity with Dr Julie Ashton | 01 May 2026 | 00:52:05 | |
TL;DR Dr. Julie Ashton, an ABTC-certified veterinary behaviourist and founder of Life on Four Legs, explains why behaviour problems in dogs are almost always a sign of pain, fear, or emotional struggle, never spite or control. She breaks down why "reactivity" is a descriptor, not a diagnosis, why any change in behaviour should be treated as medical until proven otherwise, why you cannot socialise an adult dog once the 14-16 week window has closed, and why feeding at a neutral neck height "can have a big impact on dogs that are painful and is not a bad thing to do for every dog." In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Julie Ashton, an ABTC-certified veterinary behaviorist, to unpack what’s really going on behind common dog behavior challenges, from reactivity and anxiety to sudden changes like house accidents or obsessive ball play. We explore the powerful connection between physical health, emotional wellbeing, and behavior, and why many issues are often misunderstood as “bad behavior” rather than signs of stress, fear, or even pain. This conversation is packed with practical, science-backed insights to help dog parents better understand their pets, avoid common mistakes, and build a calmer, more supportive environment for their dogs. Guest Bio:Our guest today is Dr. Julie Ashton, an ABTC-certified Veterinary Behaviourist who helps dogs and cats with complex behavioural challenges. Julie discovered her passion for behaviour while studying at Bristol Vet School, where she graduated in 2009 as both a veterinarian and with a degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare. After working in London and later Sydney, she now runs her behaviour practice from rural Essex, supporting pet owners through referral behaviour consultations both online and in person. Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode:
Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00]-Intro [04:08] The biggest misconception about dog behavior [07:26] What “reactivity” actually means [09:54] Why sudden behavior changes = check health first [14:30] The #1 mistake dog owners make with anxious dogs [18:12] Why play can turn into aggression [23:59] Obsession with ball play explained [28:39] Why dogs suddenly pee inside the house [35:26] Why behavior changes should always be checked by a vet [41:07] How to prevent behavior problems in puppies [46:24] “They’re not giving you a hard time…” mindset shift FAQ Is my dog being stubborn or spiteful when they misbehave? Almost never, most behaviour problems that look like stubbornness or spite are actually signs of pain, fear, or emotional distress, and a proper behaviourist will look for the underlying cause rather than labelling the dog as difficult. What does it mean that "reactivity is a descriptor, not a diagnosis"? It means that behaviours like lunging, barking, or growling describe what a dog is doing, but not why, the same reactive behaviour can be driven by fear, frustration, past learning, or pain, so effective treatment depends on identifying the actual cause. Can I socialise my adult dog if they missed it as a puppy? Not in the true sense, the critical socialisation window closes around 14 to 16 weeks of age, so an adult dog with fear or reactivity issues needs careful, gradual behaviour work rather than "socialisation" in the classic sense. Why does my dog seem to get worse the more I expose them to something they're scared of? Repeated exposure to a fear trigger doesn't automatically reduce fear, especially if the dog is overwhelmed each time, gradual, controlled exposure below the dog's stress threshold works far better than repeated flooding. Does the height of my dog's food bowl really matter for behaviour or comfort? Yes, feeding at a neutral neck height can have a significant positive impact on dogs experiencing pain, and is considered a reasonable, low-risk choice for any dog, according to veterinary behaviourist Dr. Julie Ashton. Why does my French Bulldog or Pug seem to get "picked on" by other dogs at the park? Brachycephalic breeds often can't move their facial skin enough to show typical calming or warning signals, which can confuse other dogs and sometimes leads to overreactions or perceived "provoking," even when the flat-faced dog isn't doing anything wrong. My previously potty-trained dog suddenly started having accidents indoors, what should I do? Treat it as medical until proven otherwise: rule out urinary tract infections, pain that affects posture (like squatting), or other physical causes with your vet before assuming it's purely behavioural. Is it normal for my dog to guard a favourite toy like a ball? Resource guarding often reflects a conflict between wanting to play and fearing the item will be taken away, rather than dominance, and can be addressed by offering other engaging, lower-arousal activities alongside the toy. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 34: If I Got a Puppy Tomorrow, I’d Do THIS Differently | 17 Apr 2026 | 00:35:10 | |
TL;DR In this solo episode, Mariska Nell reflects on nearly six years with Piper and shares everything she'd set up from day one if she were starting over, from building a consistent daily rhythm to the feeding posture discovery that changed how she thinks about mealtimes entirely. She walks through dental habits, medicine prep (including her go-to cheese ball technique), and why introducing equipment like ramps, shoes, and strollers early, before you actually need them, makes life so much easier down the line. Our French Bulldog, Piper is almost six. And looking back, there's a list of things Mariska would do differently from day one. In this solo episode, she shares everything, the daily routines, the health habits, the equipment, and the medical prep, that she wishes someone had told her before Piper came home. Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode:
Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00] Intro + product update [02:18] Why routine is the foundation (and what causes anxiety in dogs) [03:20] The morning routine that sets your dog up for success [06:05] The feeding setup, how Piper’s physio changed everything [09:35] Dental health, the parent fail and what actually works [18:45] Getting your dog ready for medicine (before you actually need it) [25:10] Equipment habituation: shoes, ramps, harnesses, strollers [30:05] Midday rest, - why your dog might be overtired (not under-stimulated) [31:55] The afternoon sniff walk (“sniffari”) and why it matters [34:05] Evening routine and wind-down [35:50] What I’d never skip (the non-negotiables) [39:05] Outro FAQ Why is my dog's feeding posture important? Feeding posture affects strain on the neck, shoulders, and joints over thousands of meals across a dog's lifetime, and for brachycephalic breeds especially, bringing the bowl to a more comfortable height can reduce unnecessary physical stress at every meal. How can I get my dog to take medicine without a fight? Build up a repertoire of foods your dog loves as "vehicles" for medicine (used only occasionally so they don't become suspicious), give a decoy piece with no medicine first, and consider using a syringe with something pleasant beforehand so it isn't only associated with medical treatment. What can I do if my dog won't tolerate teeth brushing? Alternatives include enzyme gels or pastes brushed lightly over the teeth and gums, dental drops added to water, foam or gel products applied directly, and dental chews, alongside regular vet dental cleans, typically starting from around eighteen months of age. When should I introduce equipment like ramps, shoes, or strollers to my dog? Introduce equipment early and in low-stakes, positive situations, long before you actually need it for a surgery recovery, extreme heat, or mobility decline, so your dog already has a positive association when it truly matters. How much rest does my dog actually need? Adult dogs typically need 12-16 hours of sleep per day, and puppies need even more; skipping deliberate rest time can leave a dog overstimulated, anxious, and harder to settle even after a busy, "successful" day. What is a "snaffari" and why does it matter? A snaffari is a slow, sniff-led walk where the dog sets the pace and gets to investigate their environment freely; a 20-minute sniff walk can be more mentally tiring and satisfying for a dog than a longer, faster-paced walk. How do I build a calming bedtime routine for my dog? Repeat the exact same sequence every night, the same cues, phrases, and wind-down activities, consistently over weeks or months until your dog associates that sequence with safety and settles on their own. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 33: The Hidden Cause of Dog Allergies Most Owners Miss with Amanda Smith | 03 Apr 2026 | 00:44:22 | |
TL;DR Amanda Smith, a functional canine nutritionist with over 20 years in the veterinary field and founder of Canine Gut Solutions, explains why roughly 70-80% of a dog's immune system lives in the gut, meaning itchy skin, ear infections, and even anxiety often trace back to gut health rather than "allergies" alone. She shares simple, practical ways to start improving gut health (swapping a small percentage of kibble for whole foods, rotating proteins) and confirms that elevated bowl height can support neck posture and digestion, calling it especially kind for brachycephalic dogs. In this episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked root causes of common dog health issues: gut health. From itchy skin to ear infections and low energy, we explore how what goes into your dog’s bowl directly impacts their wellbeing. Joined by functional canine nutritionist Amanda Smith, we unpack simple, realistic ways to start improving your dog’s health without overwhelm. Guest Bio:Amanda Smith is a functional canine nutritionist with over 20 years of experience in the veterinary field. After working across multiple roles in clinical practice, she shifted her focus to nutrition and gut health. Today, she helps dog parents identify the root causes of health issues and guides them in transitioning from processed diets to more balanced, whole food approaches. Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode:
Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00] - Intro and product update [02:28] - Meet Amanda Smith [03:14] - Amanda’s journey from vet tech to nutritionist [05:37] - Why dogs need whole, fresh foods [07:13] - Where to start without feeling overwhelmed [09:45] - Why gut health is the root of many issues [11:04] - Gut testing and how it works [13:44] - Signs your dog has gut imbalance [15:13] - The “poop police” discussion [16:15] - Common feeding mistakes [19:22] - Easy ways to upgrade your dog’s bowl [22:32] - Keeping it simple and realistic [25:50] - Bowl height and posture [30:52] - Preparing for allergy season [32:51] - What improvements look like [35:42] - First steps to take today FAQ Why does my dog keep getting ear infections or itchy skin even though we've ruled out allergies? Recurring ear infections and itchy skin are often connected to underlying gut health rather than a true environmental or food allergy, since roughly 70-80% of a dog's immune system is based in the gut. How can I start improving my dog's gut health without a big diet overhaul? Start small by swapping about 20% of your dog's kibble for whole foods like sardines, eggs, or blueberries, and focus on rotating proteins and food sources over time rather than aiming for one "perfect" diet. Can gut health affect my dog's anxiety or behaviour? Yes, gut health has a connection to a dog's emotional and behavioural state, so persistent anxiety or stress-related behaviours are sometimes linked to underlying gut imbalances. Does the height of my dog's food bowl really affect digestion? Yes, feeding at a more neutral neck height can support better posture during eating, which in turn can support digestion, particularly for brachycephalic breeds. Are brachycephalic dogs like French Bulldogs and Pugs more sensitive to feeding setup? Yes, because of their compressed airways and neck structure, brachycephalic dogs often benefit even more from an elevated feeding setup that reduces strain during meals. What are some easy first foods to add to my dog's diet for gut health? Sardines, eggs, and blueberries are simple, accessible whole-food "toppers" that can be added in small amounts to support gut health without a full diet change. Is rotating my dog's food better than sticking to one type consistently? Yes, rotating proteins and whole-food sources supports greater gut microbiome diversity than feeding the exact same diet indefinitely. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 32: Why Your Dog Reacts (And What It’s Trying to Tell You) with Mena Lopes | 20 Mar 2026 | 00:42:53 | |
TL;DR Mena Lopes, founder of Ginger's Way, a Dubai-based dog trainer and behaviourist, conservation biology graduate, and creator of Leash Explorer UAE, explains why reactivity in dogs is never a "bad dog" problem. It's communication rooted in fear, stress, or past trauma, and it's neither the dog's fault nor the owner's. She breaks down why you cannot "reward" a fearful dog by comforting them (it builds trust rather than reinforcing fear), why management and true behaviour-change training are two very different things, and how to read subtle calming signals like a dismissive lick, whale eyes, and ear position before a reaction escalates. Have you ever felt your stomach tighten the moment another dog appears on a walk? This episode is for you. We sat down with dog behaviorist Mena Lopes to talk about reactivity, what it actually is, why it happens, and why it’s so often misunderstood. What we kept coming back to is this: it’s not about having a “bad dog.” It’s about understanding what’s going on underneath the behavior. We also get into potty training, regression (because yes, that happens), and how to stay kind to yourself on the harder days, the ones where nothing seems to be working. Guest Bio:Mena Lopes is a dog trainer and behaviorist, and the founder of Ginger’s Way in Dubai. Originally trained in conservation biology, her work today focuses on helping dogs and their humans navigate things like reactivity, anxiety, and everyday challenges, in a way that feels practical, supportive, and realistic. Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode:
Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00]-Intro [02:22] – Mena’s story + how Ginger changed everything [05:06] – What people misunderstand about dog behavior [06:25] – What reactivity actually looks like day-to-day [07:41] – Where to start with a reactive dog [09:14] – Why we often need to train the human first [12:26] – How reactivity becomes a pattern [13:03] – When behavior changes later on (and what to do) [16:01] – The myth around “rewarding bad behavior” [17:55] – Can reactivity really be fixed? [22:29] – The subtle signs we often miss [27:02] – The idea behind Leash Explorer [30:46] – Potty training expectations vs reality [35:08] – Why accidents happen (even later on) [37:33] – What training looks like on hard days [38:28] – Stories that stay with you Notes Pipers Founders Pack: Mention it is the first 100 but we extended it to the first 150 people. FAQ Why does my dog react so strongly to other dogs or people? Reactive behaviour is almost always rooted in fear, stress, or past experience rather than aggression for its own sake, and it develops from a combination of genetics, environment, and history rather than anything the owner did wrong. Am I making my dog's fear worse by comforting them? No, comforting a frightened or reactive dog builds trust and security rather than rewarding or reinforcing the fear, contrary to a common misconception about "rewarding bad behaviour." What's the difference between managing a reactive dog and training a reactive dog? Management involves short-term strategies like avoiding triggers or using physical barriers to prevent a reaction from happening, while training is the longer-term work of actually changing how the dog feels about the trigger. How long does it take to fix reactivity in a dog? Real, lasting behaviour change in a reactive dog typically takes years rather than weeks, so it's important to set realistic expectations from the start. What are calming signals in dogs? Calming signals are subtle body language cues, like a quick dismissive lick, "whale eyes" showing the whites of the eyes, or changes in ear position, that dogs use to communicate stress or discomfort before a reaction escalates. Is my dog being reactive on purpose to embarrass me or misbehave? No, reactive dogs are not choosing to react out of spite; the behaviour comes from an involuntary fear or stress response, not a deliberate choice. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 31: Senior Dog Care & When Is It Time? Navigating Dog Dementia and Pet Loss With Adam Greenbaum | 06 Mar 2026 | 00:43:25 | |
TL;DR Adam Greenbaum, founder of Love, Baxter (the world's largest pet end-of-life resource) and previously founder of WhiskerCloud, shares what he learned after losing his dog Baxter suddenly, and how that grief led him to build a platform helping pet parents plan for end-of-life care instead of avoiding it. He explains why tracking "good days vs. bad days" grounds hard decisions, why you never have to agree to euthanasia in the moment even if a vet suggests it, why consistent routines comfort senior pets, and what to say (and never say) to someone grieving a pet. Caring for our pets as they grow older asks something deeper of us, more noticing, more patience, and sometimes the courage to begin preparing for goodbye. In this heartfelt conversation, Adam Greenbaum, founder of Love, Baxter, shares his personal journey through losing his beloved dog Baxter and caring for his 16-year-old Boston Terrier, Sophie, who is living with dementia. Together, we explore anticipatory grief, senior pet care, making end-of-life decisions with clarity, and how to support someone grieving the loss of a pet. This episode is a gentle reminder that loving well includes planning well, and that no pet parent has to walk that road alone. Guest Bio:Adam Greenbaum is the founder of Love, Baxter, the world’s largest pet end-of-life resource and professional directory, created in honor of his late dog Baxter. He previously founded WhiskerCloud, a veterinary technology company that supported over 10,000 veterinary clinics globally before being acquired by PetDesk. Today, Adam partners with veterinary teams and human hospice professionals to remove friction for families, provide practical tools, and raise the standard of care from the first hard conversation through aftercare. He lives in Newport Beach, California with his wife Elizabeth, their senior Boston Terrier Sophie, one-year-old Boston Terrier Cosmo, and their cat Nala. Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode:
Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00] Intro Caring for our pets as they grow older [02:14] Welcome Adam Greenbaum [02:52] Adam introduces himself, Sophie, Cosmo, Nala & WhiskerCloud [04:18] The loss of Baxter & why Love, Baxter was created [06:56] Insurance, access to care & the chaos at end-of-life [08:12] What people are actually searching for in crisis moments [10:20] Senior dogs, dementia & what we don’t talk about enough [12:49] Planning ahead, red lines & tracking good vs. bad days [14:07] You don’t have to euthanize immediately [16:40] Adapting care as dogs age, feeding, routines & daily life [20:30] The power of consistent systems for senior pets [22:19] What to say and not say after someone loses a pet [25:09] “It was just a pet” navigating minimization & grief [29:08] There is no timeline for grief [31:24] Preserving memories, photos, rituals & honoring their life [32:18] Why we replay the final days [35:24] Small rituals that help during grief [37:09] How loving our pets changes how we move through the world [39:17] What Adam hopes grieving pet parents feel [41:15] What makes a founder build something that truly matters [42:22] Closing reflections FAQ How do I know when it's time to euthanize my pet? There's no single rule, but tracking your pet's "good days vs. bad days" over time, using a simple template to record eating, mobility, and mood, helps ground the decision in real patterns rather than panic in the moment. Do I have to agree to euthanasia the moment my vet suggests it? No, unless it's a genuine emergency, you're allowed to take your pet home, think it through, and make the decision on your own timeline rather than deciding immediately in the vet's office. What should I say to someone whose pet has died? Say their pet's name, share a specific memory if you have one, and offer to simply be present, avoid phrases like "you can get another dog" or "at least they lived a long life," which minimise the loss. Why does losing a pet feel as painful as losing a family member? For many pet parents, a pet is genuinely part of the family, and the loss deserves the same legitimacy and grieving process as any other close relationship, without needing to be compared or ranked. How can I care for a senior dog with dementia? Consistent daily routines, fixed feeding times, walk times, and familiar cues, help ground a dog through cognitive decline, alongside monitoring their eating, mobility, and overall comfort day to day. What can I do to prepare for my pet's eventual passing? You can pre-plan with an in-home euthanasia vet or cremation facility before you ever need them, decide on your "red lines" in advance, and keep a running record of your pet's good and bad days. Is there a normal amount of time to grieve a pet? There is no fixed timeline for grieving a pet, some people grieve for years, and that's a normal reflection of a meaningful bond, not something that needs to be rushed or minimised. What are some ways to process grief after losing a pet? Helpful rituals include writing your pet a letter, going through old photos and videos, listening to songs that hold meaning, and allowing yourself to notice small, comforting "signs" without judgment. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5... | |||
| 30: How to Run With Your Dog: Distances, Gear & Ultra Training with Meghan Gould of She Runs Ultras | 20 Feb 2026 | 00:45:44 | |
TL;DR Ultrarunning coach Meghan Gould, founder of She Runs Ultras, shares how to safely and joyfully run with your dog, from building distance gradually to reading their cues over chasing mileage targets. She covers breed considerations, gear essentials like harnesses versus collars, heat and hydration rules, and her "daily shakedown" mobility practice, while making the case that flexibility and consistency beat rigid perfection, both in ultramarathon training and in everyday life with a dog. In this episode, Mariska and ultra running coach Meghan Gould discuss the intricacies of sharing an active lifestyle with dogs. They explore the balance between training for ultra marathons and caring for dogs, the importance of choosing the right breed for running, and the essential gear needed for safe and enjoyable runs. Meghan shares her personal journey into ultra running, the lessons learned from training with dogs, and the significance of flexibility and consistency in achieving running goals. The conversation emphasizes the joy of running with dogs and the importance of making it a fun experience for both. Guest Bio:Meghan Gould is an ultrarunning coach and the founder of She Runs Ultras, a podcast and online coaching community that supports women, especially those in midlife, as they train for their first or farthest ultramarathon in a way that actually fits real life. Meghan has run distances from 50K to 200 miles, giving her firsthand experience with the physical, mental, and logistical demands of ultra running. Through coaching, community, and honest conversations about what training really requires, she helps runners stop second-guessing themselves, build confidence, and make smarter decisions, so they can cross the finish line feeling strong, healthy, and proud. Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode:
Some dog breeds that might be great if you need a training buddy: Border CollieTypical: 5–10 miles, Upper: 12 miles Efficient movers; mental engagement required. VizslaTypical: 5–9 miles, Upper: 10–12 miles Smooth stride, thrives on steady pacing. Rhodesian RidgebackTypical: 4–8 miles, Upper: 10 miles Steady, heat tolerant, large-frame considerations. German Shorthaired PointerTypical: 6–12 miles, Upper: 15 miles Built for endurance; needs humans to enforce limits. DalmatianTypical: 5–10 miles, Upper: 12 miles Historically bred to run long distances. Belgian SheepdogTypical: 5–9 miles, Upper: 10–12 miles High-drive, mentally intense endurance dogs. WeimaranerTypical: 5–10 miles, Upper: 12–14 miles Strong aerobic engine; benefits from structure. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]-Intro [00:00]- How to Share an Active Life With Your Dog Safely [02:16]- Introducing Meghan Gould of She Runs Ultras [03:00]- What Is an Ultramarathon [03:39]- How Meghan Got Into Running [05:05]- Discovering Trail Running and Ultras [06:00]- Balancing Ultra Training and Dog Mom Life [07:23]- What Ultra Training Actually Looks Like Behind the Scenes [08:52]- How Wyatt Started Running With Meghan [10:32]- Why Some Breeds Aren’t Built for Distance Running [12:39]- Choosing the Right Dog Breed for Your Lifestyle [14:24]- How Far Can Dogs Really Run [14:56]- Appropriate Distances for Running With a Dog [17:15]- Why Gradual Build Up Is Critical for Dogs [18:11]- Essential Gear for Running With Your Dog [21:38]- Heat, Hydration and Safety Rules for Dogs [25:24]- What Meghan Wishes She Knew Earlier About Running With Dogs [27:55]- Flexibility vs Perfection in Ultra Training [32:37]- Staying Connected to Big Running Goals Without Pressure [35:31]- What Is the Daily Shakedown [39:15]- The Biggest Advice for Running Safely With Your Dog [40:46]- Upcoming Ultra Races and Travel Plans FAQ What distance is safe to run with my dog? Safe running distance depends heavily on breed, age, and fitness, some dogs top out around 5-6 miles before losing focus or getting tired, while athletic breeds like Vizslas or Rhodesian Ridgebacks can comfortably handle 10-12 miles, so build up gradually and watch your dog's cues rather than following a fixed number. What's the best gear for running with a dog? A well-fitted harness (rather than a collar) paired with either a sturdy long lead or a fixed six-foot leash gives your dog room to move while protecting their neck and giving you control. How do I know if it's too hot to run with my dog? If temperatures climb into the 70s Fahrenheit (low-to-mid 20s Celsius) or your dog shows open-mouth, long-tongue panting, it's time to walk instead of run, seek shade, or head home. Can any dog breed run long distances? No, breeds like Vizslas and Rhodesian Ridgebacks are naturally suited to longer distances, while brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs or dogs with health conditions are better suited to shorter distances, stroller-assisted outings, or walks instead. How do I start training my dog to run with me? Begin with regular walks, then introduce short bursts of easy jogging, gradually increasing distance based on how interested and how tired your dog seems afterward, rather than following a fixed schedule. What is the Daily Shakedown? It's a 5-10... | |||
| 29: Your Dog Isn’t “Just Getting Older.” This Is What’s Actually Happening with Dr. Laurie McCauley | 06 Feb 2026 | 00:53:39 | |
TL;DR In this episode, host Mariska Nell sits down with Dr. Laurie McCauley, a pioneer in veterinary rehabilitation, to explore what's really happening when dogs start slowing down. Together, they unpack why stiffness and changes in movement aren't always "just age," and how fascia, trigger points, posture, nutrition, and everyday habits quietly shape a dog's long-term comfort and mobility. Dr. Laurie shares practical, empowering insights for pet parents, from simple movement and stretching exercises, to weight management, joint supplements, laser therapy, and how feeding posture, including elevated eating setups for certain dogs, can reduce strain on the neck, spine, and joints during daily meals. This thoughtful conversation encourages pet parents to notice sooner, support intentionally, and rethink what's possible when movement truly becomes medicine, helping dogs live not just longer lives, but happier, more comfortable ones. Guest Bio:Dr. Laurie McCauley is a pioneer in veterinary rehabilitation with a lifelong passion for helping dogs move better, feel better, and live fuller lives. After graduating from Colorado State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine, she opened the first veterinary rehabilitation clinic in the U.S. and designed the first underwater treadmill for dogs, long before the field had a formal name. Board certified in canine sports medicine and rehabilitation, Dr. Laurie is the founder of Optimum Pet Vitality and has spent decades educating both professionals and pet parents on how movement, awareness, and thoughtful support can transform a dog’s quality of life. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode:
Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00]- Intro [02:55]- Meet Dr. Laurie McCauley & Her Path into Veterinary Rehabilitation [05:14]- Why Rehab Matters More Than We Realize [06:18]- Aging vs. Discomfort: Early Signs Dog Parents Often Miss [08:34]- Piper’s Story: Laser Therapy, Joint Supplements & Zoomies [10:21]- Longevity, Exercise & Why Movement Is Medicine [10:58]- What Fascia Is and Why It’s So Important [12:45]- Fascia, Immunity & Why “Sticky” Tissue Causes Problems [13:57]- How Movement, Stretching & Breathing Support Fascia [14:55]- Doggy Yoga & Cookie Stretches Explained [15:15]- How Often to Stretch: Daily vs. Throughout the Day [16:27]- Dr. Laurie Demo: Core Strength, Balance & Ball Exercises [17:10]- When to Start Mobility Work (Puppies to Seniors) [19:26]- What Trigger Points Are and Why They Matter [20:22]- Dr. Laurie Demo: Finding & Releasing a Trigger Point [20:58]- Dr. Laurie Demo:... | |||
| 28: Your Dog Isn’t “Bad”, They’re Overwhelmed (A Dog Trainer Explains Why) with Phoebe Peppiatt from Double Woof Dog Training | 23 Jan 2026 | 00:51:41 | |
TL;DR In this thoughtful and engaging conversation, Phoebe Peppiatt, a Dubai-based dog trainer, shares her journey from corporate life to ethical, relationship-led dog training. Together with Mariska, she explores why reactivity is so common, especially in busy urban environments like the UAE, and how confidence, early socialisation, and environment shape behaviour over time. They discuss practical, compassionate approaches to common challenges such as separation anxiety, potty training, and overstimulation, while also highlighting the importance of daily routines, feeding setups, and learning to read canine body language. The episode closes with an important reminder: caring for yourself as a pet parent is not optional, it's part of caring well for your dog. Guest Bio:Phoebe Peppiatt is a Dubai-based dog trainer and the founder of Double Woof Dog Training. Originally from the UK, Phoebe has spent over a decade in the Middle East and more than five years working professionally with dogs and their humans around the world. Her approach is rooted in positive, ethical, and judgment-free training, with a strong focus on confidence, communication, and understanding behaviour beneath the surface. Having fostered many rescue dogs herself, Phoebe is deeply passionate about helping dogs stay out of shelters by supporting the human–dog relationship before challenges escalate. During This Episode:
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Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00]- Intro [03:05] – Phoebe’s journey into dog training [06:10] – Ethical training and lived experience vs qualifications [09:26] – Reactivity: what sits beneath the behaviour [11:40] – Creating a calmer home environment [14:41] – Building confidence in reactive dogs [18:04] – Early socialisation and the UAE context [21:46] – Compassion, pressure, and empathy for dog parents [22:57] – Quiet signs a dog is gaining confidence [24:47] – Separation anxiety in apartment living [28:45] – Buttons, enrichment, and managing overstimulation [36:53] – Misunderstandings and canine body language [39:10] – Why humans change first [40:16] – Daily routines and emotional regulation [43:10] – Feeding setup, posture, and comfort [45:40] – Potty training for puppies and adopted dogs [49:06] – Final reflections on self-care [50:51] – Outro FAQ Why does my dog react so strongly to other dogs, noises, or people? Reactivity is almost always a fear or confidence-based response rather than aggression or dominance, and it's shaped by the dog's environment, past experiences, and how safe they feel in the moment, which is especially common in busy urban environments. Is my dog being spiteful when they have potty accidents in the house? No. Dogs that have accidents indoors are usually anxious about being scolded, not being deliberately defiant, and consistency rather than punishment is what actually resolves potty training struggles. How do I help my dog with separation anxiety? Start by reducing the time your dog spends alone, then very gradually build up the length of absences so your dog learns, through gradual trust-building rather than force, that you always come back. Does my dog's feeding setup actually matter for their stress levels? Yes. Feeding posture, bowl height, and the overall setup can affect a dog's comfort and stability, and are worth paying attention to as part of their daily routine. At what age should I start socialising my puppy? Early socialisation plays a key role in building confidence, and it matters even more in busy environments like the UAE, though gradual, calm exposure still helps dogs who missed that early window. How do I know if my dog is gaining confidence? Watch for the quiet signs Phoebe describes, like calmer behaviour, easier recovery from novelty, and more settled body language day to day, not just the absence of obvious reactivity. How can I take care of myself while managing a reactive or anxious dog? Supporting your own wellbeing, whether that's rest, support from others, or simply lowering your own expectations during a hard training period, is part of caring well for your dog, not a distraction from it. How do I balance my dog's needs with daily life in a busy environment? Focus on calm, low-stimulation routines at home, gradual confidence-building outside, and consistent daily structure, since these all work together to help a dog feel safe rather than overwhelmed. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior... | |||
| 27: Dog Feeding Posture Explained: Elevated Bowls, Brachycephalic Dogs & What Vets Really Say | 09 Jan 2026 | 00:24:09 | |
TL;DR Feeding posture is something most of us never question, yet it's something our dogs do every single day. In this solo episode, Mariska explores the often-overlooked role of feeding posture in canine health, and why elevated bowls can be supportive for some dogs but harmful for others. Drawing on veterinary literature, canine physiotherapy guidance, and her lived experience with Piper (whose own physio unexpectedly asked about her feeding setup), Mariska breaks down how feeding posture affects the neck, shoulders, and spine, why brachycephalic dogs like French Bulldogs and Pugs often struggle more, what the research really says about elevated bowls and bloat (GDV), subtle signs of stiffness pet parents often miss, and how to think about feeding as a system, not just a bowl. This episode isn't blanket advice, and it's not about telling you what to buy. It's about helping you notice what your dog's body might be asking for. During This Episode:
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Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00]- Why no one talks about dog feeding posture [01:05]- Important context: this isn’t advice for every dog [03:20]- Piper’s physio moment & the unexpected question [06:10]- Why feeding posture affects the neck, shoulders & spine [09:20]- The emotional impact of chronic discomfort in dogs [10:45]- Subtle signs of stiffness pet parents often miss [13:40]- Treating stiffness: why it’s never just one solution [15:10]- Elevated bowls, digestion & GDV, a balanced view [17:55]- Why brachycephalic dogs are different [19:30]- What “elevated” actually means (ideal feeding height) [21:25]- Why physios start with everyday systems like feeding [22:45]- Rethinking feeding: systems, not products [23:30]- Final reflections, waitlist & how to follow along FAQ Should all dogs use elevated bowls? No. Elevated bowls are not universal advice; they tend to benefit brachycephalic breeds, senior dogs, and dogs with arthritis or IVDD, but may not be appropriate for large, deep-chested breeds prone to bloat (GDV) or fast eaters who gulp their food. Do elevated bowls cause or prevent bloat in dogs? The research on elevated bowls and bloat (GDV) primarily applies to large, deep-chested breeds like Great Danes and Weimaraners, showing an increased risk profile in those specific dogs. It is not established as a universal risk or benefit across all breeds. Why are brachycephalic dogs more affected by feeding posture? Brachycephalic dogs like French Bulldogs and Pugs have altered airway anatomy and swallowing mechanisms, meaning breathing and digestion are closely linked, so even small changes in head and neck posture during feeding can affect how comfortably and safely they eat. What is the ideal height for an elevated dog bowl? The ideal height brings the bowl to roughly your dog's shoulder or lower chest level so their neck stays in a neutral position while eating, rather than raising the bowl as high as possible. The right height varies by individual dog size and structure. What are subtle signs that my dog might have neck or shoulder stiffness? Subtle signs include neck folds in a healthy-weight dog, stiffness or hesitance after resting, reluctance to bend down, or noticeable discomfort during everyday movements like eating. None of these are a diagnosis on their own, but they're worth mentioning to your vet. Can an elevated bowl alone fix my dog's stiffness or discomfort? No. An elevated bowl can help support posture, but treating stiffness usually requires a combination of approaches, such as vet or physio-guided therapies, targeted core-strengthening exercises, and appropriate feeding posture together. What should I do if my dog eats too fast? If your dog gulps their food quickly, a slow feeder designed to reduce eating pace is generally more important than changing the bowl's height, since eating speed plays a bigger role in digestive comfort than posture in these cases. How do I know if my dog would benefit from a posture-adjusted feeding setup? Consult your vet or a canine physiotherapist, who can assess your dog's individual breed, structure,... | |||
| 26: The Last Best Day: Loving a Senior Dog Through Dementia and Goodbye with Coeli Fortun | 26 Dec 2025 | 00:53:00 | |
TL;DR Toronto-based photographer and certified pet nutrition coach Coeli (Chelly) Fortun joins Mariska for a gentle, deeply honest conversation about caring for her 15-year-old Shih Tzu, Manolo, through canine dementia, degenerative myelopathy, and arthritis, and what it meant to give him his "last best day." Coeli shares the story behind her viral last-day video, why nutrition and community were central to both Manolo's care and her cat Snuffles living to 20, and the philosophy that reframed her hardest decision: "it's not about fixing aging, it's about supporting good days," and "euthanasia isn't giving up, it's compassion." In this episode, we sit down for a gentle and deeply honest conversation with Coeli Fortun, a pet photographer and certified pet nutrition coach, as she shares what it was like to care for her senior dog, Manolo, through decline, and what it meant to give him his last best day. Together, we talk about the bond we build with our pets over a lifetime, the role nutrition and supportive care can play as they age, and the long, emotional road that leads to end-of-life decisions. Chelly opens up about grief, judgment, and the quiet relief that can coexist with loss, and why community matters so much during these moments. This episode is for anyone loving a senior pet, grieving one they’ve lost, or navigating the question no one prepares you for. You’re not alone, and you don’t have to go through it without compassion or support. Guest Bio:Coeli (Chelly) Fortun is a Toronto-based photographer and certified pet nutrition coach whose work centers on documenting the deep bond between pets and their humans. After caring for her Shih Tzu, Manolo (15 y.o), through three years of senior decline (including canine dementia, degenerative myelopathy, and arthritis) and her cat Snuffles (20y.o), through cancer, she began sharing their stories openly and found comfort in the community that formed around them. During This Episode:
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Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00]- Intro [03:45]- Meet Chelly: Photographer, pet nutrition coach & senior pet advocate [05:22]- How photographing her own pets changed everything [07:27]- Why nutrition played a major role in extending her pets’ quality of life [09:15]- “It’s not about fixing aging, it’s about supporting good days” [12:24]- The story behind Manolo’s last-day video [15:11]- Why the park, the sign, and strangers mattered so much [16:06]- Turning grief into connection: sharing to help even one person feel less alone [17:10]- Why end-of-life decisions are never “overnight” [18:21]- Understanding canine dementia (and why no one talks about it) [20:24]- The Quality of Life checklist that changed everything [21:05]- “If they can’t do the dog things they love anymore…” [23:37]- Sensory loss, fear, and what senior decline really looks like [26:03]- How vets and specialists helped confirm it wasn’t “giving up” [27:40]- Holding grief and relief at the same time [29:25]- How to hold space for grief when the world doesn’t understand [32:13]- Why community is everything during senior pet care [35:16]- What to say to yourself when you feel exhausted, judged, or overwhelmed [38:03]- “Euthanasia isn’t giving up, it’s compassion” [42:04]- The moment Manolo showed them he was ready FAQ How do I know when it's time to euthanize my senior dog? A helpful guideline shared in this episode is to consider whether your dog can still do at least three of their four favorite things — if they've lost the ability to do almost everything that made them happy, it may be time to consult your vet about quality of life. What is canine dementia and how does it progress? Canine dementia in this episode was described as a slow accumulation of symptoms, starting with nighttime restlessness and yelping that gradually extends throughout the day, often accompanied by confusion, disorientation, and loss of vision or hearing. Is euthanasia giving up on my pet? No — as a longtime veterinary technician told Coeli, euthanasia is not giving up, it is a compassionate act that ends suffering and preserves a pet's dignity and peace when their quality of life has significantly declined. How can I cope with grief after losing a senior pet? Allowing yourself to feel grief in the moment it arises, rather than suppressing it, and leaning on communities of people who... | |||
| 25: French Bulldog 101: The Ultimate Health Guide, BOAS, Breathing, IVDD, Diet & Puppy Care with Dr. Sarah Ramsey | 12 Dec 2025 | 01:04:48 | |
TL;DR This episode dives deep into the essential care and health considerations for French Bulldogs, exploring their rising popularity, common medical issues, and the importance of responsible breeding. Dr. Sarah Ramsey, an Advanced Veterinary Practitioner based in Dubai, shares her expertise on early care, recognizing health problems, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for these beloved pets. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the unique needs of French Bulldogs, from nutrition to veterinary care, including a standout moment where Dr. Sarah confirms that an elevated feeding setup can really help this breed. Guest Bio: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. During This Episode:
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Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00]-Introduction to French Bulldog Care [05:15]- The Popularity of French Bulldogs [06:39]- Understanding French Bulldog Health Risks [10:18]- Choosing the Right French Bulldog [11:32]- Early Care for Your French Bulldog [14:55]- Recognizing Breathing Issues in French Bulldogs [16:34]- Understanding Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) [19:06]- The Importance of Early Intervention for French Bulldogs [21:36]- Assessing Surgical Needs in French Bulldogs [22:28]- Neutering and Its Timing for French Bulldogs [26:21]- Setting Up French Bulldogs for Success [30:26]- Understanding IVDD in French Bulldogs [34:13]- Emergency Responses to Proprioceptive Deficits [35:08]- The Importance of Imaging for Spinal Health [36:54]- Feeding Posture and the Benefits of an elevated feeding system for French Bulldogs [38:45]- Choosing the Right Puppy: Health Considerations [39:38]- The Impact of Breed Characteristics on Health [40:57]- Grooming and Maintenance for French Bulldogs [43:28]- Dietary Needs and Feeding Frequency for French Bulldogs [48:58]- Veterinary Care and Blood Work for French Bulldogs [49:14]- Importance of Baseline Health Checks [50:01]- Proactive vs Reactive Health Management [51:47]- Comprehensive Veterinary Checkups [53:09]- Recognizing Subtle Signs of Discomfort [55:49]- The Role of Research in Pet Ownership [57:44]- Ethical Breeding Practices [58:59]- Health Considerations for French Bulldogs [01:01:51]- Final Thoughts on French Bulldog Care Bonus: Frenchie Nose-to-Tail Health Checklist 👃 Nose & Breathing☐ Nostrils open and symmetrical ☐ Breathing is quiet (no excessive snorting, wheezing, or rasping) ☐ No panting at rest ☐ No blue/pale gums ☐ Able to exercise/play without stopping quickly 👀 Eyes☐ No redness ☐ No excessive tearing or staining ☐ No squinting or blinking more than normal ☐ Corneas look smooth & clear (no cloudy patches or scratches) ☐ Check corners of eyes for any discharge 🐶 Skin & Face Folds☐ Clean between facial folds ☐ No redness or moisture ☐ No smell from folds ☐ No crusting or irritation ☐ Chin and lip folds clean and dry 👂 Ears☐ No redness ☐ No odor ☐ No waxy buildup ☐ Dog is comfortable when ears are touched 🦷 Mouth & Teeth☐ Gums pink and healthy ☐ No broken or loose teeth ☐ Breath smells normal ☐ No difficulty chewing 🧴 Body... | |||
| 24: Making the Holidays Magical for Your Dog | 05 Dec 2025 | 00:29:20 | |
TL;DR In this solo episode, Mariska discusses how to make the holiday season magical for dogs. She shares the Elfie for Dogs tradition, holiday enrichment ideas, safety tips, and ways to create special memories with pets. The episode emphasizes the importance of connection and presence during the festive season, reminding pet parents to prioritize their dogs' needs and joy over Pinterest-perfect setups. During This Episode:
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Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [00:00] — Intro [00:40] — The Elevated Feeding System Story & Founding Pack [02:18] — Welcome to the Episode [04:10] — What Is Elfie for Dogs? [05:20] — The 25-Day Printable Elfie Pack [06:15] — My Favourite Elfie Setups (Pancakes, Binoculars, Naughty/Nice) [07:30] — Holiday Enrichment Ideas [09:00] — Christmas “Snafari” Walk [10:40] — Wrapping Paper Treasure Hunt [11:20] — Festive Lick Mats [12:15] — Advent Calendars (Store-Bought & DIY) [13:05] — Christmas Eve Treat Puzzle & Cozy Den Setup [13:32] — Holiday Safety for Dogs [15:15] — Toxic Foods & Guest Safety [17:40] — Decoration Hazards [18:40] — Guests, Stress & Decompression Spaces [19:30] — Traveling With Your Dog During the Holidays [20:25] — Special Holiday Traditions With Your Dog [21:45] — Paw-Print Ornaments & Christmas Eve Walks [22:15] — Matching PJs, Pup Stockings & Family Photos [22:55] — Gift Ideas That Support Wellbeing [24:45] — Enrichment Gifts, Treats & Acts of Kindness [25:06] — Where Tails Meet Hearts: Tika the Iggy Tribute [27:28] — Paw-lebrity of the Week: Fredrick and Royston [28:40] — Final Message: Presence Over Perfection FAQ What is Elfie for Dogs? Elfie for Dogs is a dog-friendly holiday tradition where you set up a small, playful daily scene throughout December, using ideas like a tiny pancake breakfast, binoculars for "bird watching," or a naughty-or-nice treat setup, using a printable pack to guide you. What foods are toxic to dogs during the holidays? Common holiday foods that are dangerous for dogs are covered in detail in Episode 6's toxic foods guide, and general holiday hazards include chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions and garlic, xylitol, alcohol, and fatty or bone-in scraps from the table, so it's worth briefing guests before they feed your dog anything. Are Christmas decorations dangerous for dogs? Yes, tinsel, ribbons, and small ornaments can all be choking or ingestion hazards, so dogs should be supervised around a decorated tree, especially in the first few days. What are some good enrichment activities for dogs during the holidays? A Christmas "snafari" (a slow, sniff-focused walk), a wrapping paper treasure hunt with hidden treats, and a festive lick mat are all low-cost, high-value ways to keep a dog engaged during a busy season. How can I help my dog cope with holiday guests and noise? Set up a quiet decompression space with your dog's bed and favorite items so they have somewhere calm to retreat to if the holiday hustle and bustle becomes overwhelming. What are meaningful, low-cost holiday traditions I can start with my dog? An annual paw print ornament, a quiet Christmas Eve walk together, a pup stocking, matching pajamas, and an annual family photo are all simple traditions that become more meaningful each year. What are good holiday gift ideas for dogs? Gifts that genuinely support wellbeing, like enrichment toys, comfort items, and treats tied to your dog's actual needs, or even a donation to a rescue in your dog's name, tend to matter more than novelty gifts. Should I travel with my dog over the holidays? If you do travel with your dog, bring familiar comfort items like their bed or a worn piece of your clothing to help them settle more easily in a new environment. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the... | |||
| 23: How Smart Are Dogs Really? Jennifer Holland Reveals the Science Behind Canine Intelligence | 28 Nov 2025 | 00:43:06 | |
TL;DR Mariska Nell sits down with science writer and longtime National Geographic contributor Jennifer S. Holland to explore what it really means to be "dog smart." Jennifer shares stories and insights from her latest book, Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence, including why an estimated 85% of the world's dogs aren't pets, how street dogs adapt and thrive, and what search-and-rescue and cancer-detection dogs reveal about canine superpowers. They dive into everyday intelligence, like the quiet genius of a dog waiting at the window, why so-called "bad dogs" are often just misunderstood or under-exercised, how ear cropping and tail docking can impact communication, and why letting dogs sniff, move, and "be dogs" is one of the most loving things we can do. The conversation blends science, personal stories (including Mariska's Frenchie Piper and Jennifer's dog Monk), and practical takeaways for modern pet parents who want to better understand and support their dogs' emotional and cognitive lives. Guest Bio:Jennifer S. Holland is a science and nature writer with a long career as a staff writer at National Geographic. Her work focuses on animals, conservation, and the natural world, and she is the bestselling author of the Unlikely Friendships book series, which shares true stories of surprising bonds between animals. Her latest book, Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence, examines what it means to be smart in the world of the dog, weaving together cutting-edge research, field reporting, and stories from trainers, working dogs, and beloved pets. Jennifer lives with her dog Monk and continues to write, speak, and share about the rich inner lives of animals. During This Episode:
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Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Jennifer’s website Jennifer's Unlikely series books Jennifer on social: Instagram/TikTok / Facebook Sign up to our Tails and Tones newsletter here Sign up to our Tails and Tones waiting list for our first product (Elevated Food System) here Find Tails and Tones on our socials: Instagram / Facebook / TikTok / LinkedIn / Website Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]- Intro [02:00] – Welcome, Jennifer’s intro [03:40] – Jennifer’s origin story & “why dogs” [07:30] – 85% of dogs aren’t pets; street-dog intelligence [10:55] – Monk’s bed-spot trick: everyday problem-solving [12:48] – Talking buttons: cause/effect & connection [15:49] – Dogs in MRI machines—how they trained it [22:00] – Search-and-rescue scent tracking story [20:15] – Signals, cropped ears, and stepping up for our dogs [27:57] – “Bad dogs” as misdirected intelligence [30:01] – Exercise is everything (physical & cognitive) [31:56] – Responsibility: sniffing, breed needs, partnership [35:51] – A deeper truth about intelligence & existence value [39:04] – Signature takeaway: “Let dogs be dogs” [41:00] – Jennifer's one message to every pet parent [42:31] – Outro FAQ How smart are dogs, really? Dogs possess adaptive, social intelligence rather than human-like intelligence. They excel at reading emotion, solving problems relevant to their environment, and using extraordinarily sensitive scent detection, all shaped by thousands of years of co-evolving alongside humans. Are most dogs in the world actually pets? No. An estimated 85% of the world's dogs are free-roaming rather than household pets, which reframes what a "normal" or valid dog life looks like beyond the pet-owning world. Can dogs really detect cancer by smell? Yes. Research discussed in Jennifer Holland's book Dog Smart shows dogs can detect certain cancers and diseases through scent, demonstrating a sensory intelligence far beyond human capability. What do MRI studies reveal about how dogs think? Dogs can be trained, using positive reinforcement, to lie still in MRI machines, and the resulting brain scans are helping researchers understand how dogs process human voices and emotional tone. Why do ear cropping and tail docking affect a dog's communication? Ears and tails are key tools dogs use to signal intent and emotion to other dogs, so removing or altering them can strip away natural communication cues, making interactions with other dogs riskier or more easily misread. Is my "badly behaved" dog just being difficult? Not usually. Behavior problems are very often a sign of unmet physical or cognitive needs rather than defiance, and addressing the root cause, through more exercise, more mental stimulation, and better training, typically resolves it. Why is it important to let my dog sniff during walks? Sniffing is a dog's primary way of gathering information about their world, and letting them sniff freely on walks supports a more optimistic, well-adjusted temperament, so it's meaningful enrichment, not just a delay. What does "let dogs be dogs" mean in practice? It means recognizing that dogs are an entirely different species with their own instincts, needs, and ways of experiencing the world, and making space for those needs (sniffing, exercise, problem-solving) rather than expecting them to behave like small humans. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog... | |||
| 22: DIY Dog Art Ideas: Safe Pawprint Projects, Lick Paintings & Creative Keepsakes | 21 Nov 2025 | 00:32:16 | |
TL;DR In this solo episode, Mariska brings her art world background 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 and Tones' first product: an elevated food and water station. During This Episode:
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Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [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 FAQ What kind of paint is safe to use on a dog's paws? Baby-safe, washable finger paint like Mideer Super Washable Finger Paint is a good option for colorful paw prints, but always avoid studio acrylic or oil paints, since most art supplies aren't formulated to be dog-safe. How do I make a paw print with my dog without any mess? Use a no-mess baby handprint or footprint kit, which captures a clean, crisp impression without paint touching your dog's paw directly. What is lick art and how do I make it with my dog? Lick art involves setting up canvas and cling film with peanut butter or yogurt on top, then letting your dog lick it so the motion creates an abstract, swirled painting underneath. Do I need to supervise my dog during a lick art or pawprint project? Yes, always supervise closely, especially during lick art, so your dog doesn't tear through the cling film, and clean their paws with lukewarm water right after. Can I turn my dog's art into something more than a keepsake? Yes, pawprint and lick art designs can be turned into functional pieces like mugs, coasters, bowls, and holiday gifts. Is Tails and Tones launching a product soon? Yes, Tails and Tones' first product, an elevated food and water station designed for flat-faced and mobility-sensitive dogs, is in R&D, with a waitlist open at tailsandtoneselevated.carrd.co for updates. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 21: From Playdates to Paychecks: The Future of Pet Content Creation with Tori Mistick | 14 Nov 2025 | 00:42:14 | |
TL;DR Tori Mistick, founder of Wear Wag Repeat and a dog mom, blogger, and podcast host with over a decade of experience creating content for pet lovers, joins Mariska to unpack what it really takes to turn a love of dogs into a real online pet brand or business. Tori is also a Certified Canine Enrichment Technician and recently launched her limited-series podcast, Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick. The central message: believing in your passion comes first, follower count doesn't equal revenue, authenticity builds trust, and owning your audience through an email list and website matters more than any single platform. 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. Guest Bio: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. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Tori's Website Wear Wag Repeat, Wear Wag Repeat Podcast Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick Podcast Mental Enrichment Activity Pack ($19) Instagram: @wearwagrepeat @tmistick Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[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 FAQ How do I turn my dog's Instagram account into a business? Start by believing in the work itself, since monetization is often slow at first, then look for collaboration opportunities with other pet accounts or brands and begin building an email list you fully own. Do pet influencers with more followers make more money? Not necessarily. Follower count does not equate to revenue, and smaller, more engaged accounts can often out-earn much larger ones. What's the biggest mistake new pet content creators make? Relying entirely on social platforms for their audience is one of the biggest risks, since accounts can be locked, hacked, or deprioritized by an algorithm overnight, which is why an email list matters so much. How important is authenticity in pet content creation? Very. Authenticity is what builds trust with an audience, and creators who share their real journey, including setbacks, tend to build deeper, longer-lasting connections than those who only post polished wins. What does branding mean for a pet business? Branding is less about visuals alone and more about the feeling it creates. It's how your colors, tone, and story make your audience feel when they engage with your content. Is long-form content coming back for pet creators? Yes. Podcasts, newsletters, and other long-form formats are resurging because they let creators tell deeper stories in a way short-form content and AI-generated content can't easily replicate. What's the best first step for someone just starting a pet content account? Start an email list right away and focus on genuine collaboration and community-building rather than chasing follower counts. How can I keep my pet community engaged long term? Long-term engagement comes from real relationships: consistent content, genuine outreach, and showing up for other people in the pet industry, not just posting for your own account's growth. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper:... | |||
| 20: Frenchies 101: Why Everyone Wants One, and Why You Might Not | 07 Nov 2025 | 00:27:16 | |
TL;DR In this solo episode, Mariska breaks down the honest pros and cons of French Bulldog ownership using her own experience raising Piper. Frenchies have exploded in popularity thanks to celebrity culture and social media, but that same demand has fueled unethical breeding and a long list of serious health issues, including BOAS (brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome), IVDD (intervertebral disc disease), overheating risk, and an inability to give birth naturally in most cases. Mariska's bottom line: French Bulldogs are goofy, affectionate, apartment-friendly companions, but only for people who can commit financially (often $15,000 a year or more) and emotionally to a breed with serious, well-documented medical needs. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: 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 Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[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, ) FAQ Should I get a French Bulldog? French Bulldogs make wonderful, affectionate companions for people who can commit to significant ongoing veterinary costs (often $15,000+ per year) and are prepared to manage serious breed-specific health risks like BOAS and IVDD. Why are French Bulldogs so unhealthy? French Bulldogs are brachycephalic, meaning their skulls are compressed, which squeezes their airway, soft palate, and nostrils, causing breathing difficulties, and their body shape also predisposes them to spinal issues like IVDD and difficulty giving birth naturally. What is BOAS surgery and does every Frenchie need it? BOAS (brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome) surgery widens the nostrils, shortens the soft palate, and sometimes removes excess tissue or tonsils to improve breathing; not every Frenchie needs it, but many benefit significantly... | |||
| 19: From Bored to Brilliant: How Daily Enrichment Builds Your Dog’s Confidence | 31 Oct 2025 | 00:37:26 | |
TL;DR In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell and Tori Mistick of Wear Wag Repeat explore how daily enrichment transforms your dog's emotional health and confidence. Tori, a Certified Canine Enrichment Technician and founder of Wear Wag Repeat, reframes what enrichment actually means: not keeping a dog busy, but understanding their emotions and building genuine connection. Learn simple, practical ways to enrich your dog's day, strengthen your bond, and bring more joy to both of your lives. Guest Bio: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. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Tori's Website Wear Wag Repeat, Wear Wag Repeat Podcast Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick Podcast Mental Enrichment Activity Pack ($19) Instagram: @wearwagrepeat @tmistick Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[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 FAQ What is dog enrichment and why does it matter? Dog enrichment is about understanding and meeting your dog's emotional needs, not just keeping them occupied, and it works best when it strengthens connection rather than simply filling time. How can I give my dog enrichment if I only have a few minutes a day? Small, low-cost activities like a DIY busy box, a muffin tin game, or a towel burrito with hidden treats can turn just a few minutes into meaningful enrichment. Can enrichment help an anxious or fearful dog? Yes, as Burt's story in this episode shows, enrichment can help an anxious dog build confidence over time, especially when paired with calm environments and consistent, low-pressure routines. Is it possible to over-enrich a dog? Yes, meeting emotional needs is about balance. Too much stimulation without calm bonding time can overwhelm a dog rather than support them, so mixing active and calm enrichment matters. What are some low-cost enrichment ideas that don't require buying toys? Muffin tins, towel burritos, and homemade busy boxes are all inexpensive, easy ways to bring enrichment into your dog's day without needing to buy anything new. Is there a toy worth actually spending money on? Tori shares her one splurge-worthy toy recommendation in the episode, though the bigger message is that connection and presence matter more than any single product. What's the single best piece of enrichment advice for a busy pet parent? Tori's core advice is to slow down and be present, since true enrichment often comes from small, consistent moments of connection rather than elaborate activities. Where can I learn more about structured enrichment programs? Tori's Mental Enrichment Activity Pack, available for $19 through Wear Wag Repeat, offers a structured way to bring more enrichment into your dog's daily routine. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 18: How to Choose the Right Dog for Your Lifestyle (and Avoid Heartbreaking Mistakes) | 24 Oct 2025 | 00:28:53 | |
TL;DR 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. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Meet your Dog Book by Kim Brophey Where Tails Meet Heart Stories
Paw-Lebrities
Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [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 FAQ How do I choose the right dog breed for my lifestyle? Start by honestly assessing your energy level, available time, living space, and future life plans, then match those factors against a breed's typical tendencies, using resources like Kim Brophey's 10 breed categories from Meet Your Dog as a guide rather than a guarantee. What happens if I choose the wrong dog breed for my lifestyle? A lifestyle mismatch can lead to unmet needs, behavior issues, frustration for both dog and owner, and a higher risk of the dog eventually being rehomed. What are Kim Brophey's dog breed categories? Her book Meet Your Dog groups dogs into categories like sighthounds, guardians, toy dogs, herders, bulldogs and entertainers, terriers, gundogs, scent hounds, "natural" dogs, and "world dogs," each reflecting shared instincts and historical purpose. Can a high-energy dog still work for someone with limited time or a smaller home? Yes, with adaptation. Piper's stroller runs are a good example of finding a workaround that respects both the dog's limits and the owner's routine, though it's still important to be honest about whether you can meet a breed's core needs. Is a dog's breed a guarantee of its personality? No, breed categories describe general tendencies, but individual personality varies significantly even within the same breed, so tendencies are not destiny, and it's worth respecting the specific dog in front of you. Should I consider a dog's lifespan when choosing a breed? Yes, thinking long-term, in terms of the years and life changes ahead, helps you plan for how a dog's needs will fit with things like having kids, moving, traveling, or retiring during the years you'll share together. How much should I budget for a dog financially? Budget honestly for the specific breed you're considering, including ongoing costs like vet care, training, nutrition, and insurance, rather than just the upfront cost of adoption or purchase. Where can I find more community stories and inspiration featured on the podcast? This episode recaps some of the podcast's favorite Where Tails Meet Hearts stories and Paw-lebrities of the week, all linked above, so you can follow along with the dogs and stories the community has loved so far. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. | |||
| 17: Who’s Really Walking Your Dog? How to Find a Walker You Can Trust | 17 Oct 2025 | 00:22:33 | |
TL;DR 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. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: 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 Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[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 FAQ How do I choose the right dog walker for my dog? Start by understanding your dog's specific needs, such as energy level, medical conditions, or reactivity to other dogs, then look for a walker who shows reliability, relevant experience, clear communication, and professionalism. What questions should I ask a potential dog walker? Ask how they handle emergencies, whether they walk one dog at a time or multiple dogs together, and whether they can provide references or proof of insurance. Should I do a trial walk before hiring a dog walker? Yes, a trial walk lets you observe how the walker interacts with your dog and how comfortable your dog seems with them, which is one of the most reliable ways to judge whether it's a good match before committing. What are red flags when choosing a dog walker? Red flags include hesitancy to provide references or proof of insurance, inconsistent or spotty communication, walking too many dogs at once, and body language that shows impatience toward your dog. How do I know if my dog likes their new dog walker? Trust your dog's instincts. A relaxed, happy dog around a new walker is a good sign, while signs of stress or discomfort suggest the match may not be right, even if it takes a little time to build trust. How can I build a good long-term relationship with my dog walker? Set clear expectations early, keep communication open, and encourage your walker to flag any changes they notice in your dog's behavior, energy, or mood. Why does it matter who walks my dog? Your dog is part of your family, and the person walking them plays a real role in their daily happiness and wellbeing, so it's worth choosing that person with the same care you'd bring to any other part of their care team. What's a good dog bed to pair with a solid daily walking routine? This episode's Fetch or Forget segment reviews the Snooza Cotton Canvas Futon, a dog bed worth considering as part of a comfortable at-home routine after a good walk. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 16: Why Losing a Pet Hurts So Deeply with Jennifer Muldowney aka the Glam Reaper | 10 Oct 2025 | 00:34:56 | |
TL;DR 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. Guest Bio: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. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Jennifer's website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[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 FAQ Why does losing a dog feel like losing a family member? Losing a dog often triggers grief comparable to losing a human loved one, since it also means losing a daily routine, unconditional companionship, and a bond built on years of shared life, which is why pet loss deserves genuine recognition rather than dismissal. Is it normal to grieve a pet as much as a person? Yes, pet loss is a legitimate and often profound form of grief that is frequently unacknowledged or minimized by society's unspoken hierarchy of grief, despite being just as real. How do I know when it's time to euthanize my dog? There's no single formula for this deeply personal decision. It comes down to closely reading your individual dog's quality of life and comfort, ideally in conversation with a trusted veterinarian, and recognizing that feeling uncertain afterward doesn't mean you made the wrong choice. How can I help my other pets grieve after losing a companion animal? Other pets often sense and grieve a loss too, so involving them in the process, whether through scent, presence, or a moment near the departed pet's belongings, can help them process the change rather than being left confused by an unexplained absence. What are meaningful ways to memorialize a dog? Popular options include shadow boxes with a collar or leash, paw print keepsakes, cremation jewellery, memorial paintings, and personalized rituals, since there is no right or wrong way to memorialize a pet as long as it honors your relationship with them. Is it okay to get a new dog after losing one? Yes, getting a new dog doesn't mean replacing the one you lost. Your heart grows to hold new love alongside the grief and memories of your previous companion, rather than one substituting for the other. Can I bury my pet in my backyard? It depends entirely on your local laws, as pet burial regulations vary significantly by location, so it's important to check local rules before planning a backyard burial or any other memorial arrangement. How do I create a safe space for someone grieving a pet? Simply showing up, listening without judgment, and avoiding comparisons to other types of loss go a long way, since safe spaces, whether in person or online, help people feel less alone in pet grief. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit... | |||
| 15: Pet First Aid 101: Building an Emergency Kit with Dr. Sarah Ramsey | 03 Oct 2025 | 00:45:30 | |
TL;DR 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. Guest Bio: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. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Emergency Kits: At-Home Emergency Kit
On-the-Go / Walk & Travel Kit (Mini Version)
Special Additions / Situational Items
Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Timestamps to relevant points within the episode: [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 FAQ What should be in a pet's emergency first aid kit? A basic at-home kit should include gloves, saline pods for cleaning wounds and eyes, sterile gauze, self-adhering vet wrap, a muzzle or muzzle tape, a tick hook, tweezers, cotton buds, styptic powder for nail bleeds, and an Elizabethan collar to prevent licking. What should I carry in a smaller kit for walks and hikes? For walks, carry a saline pod, sterile gauze, vet wrap, muzzle tape, and a water bottle. For hikes or if your dog has known allergies, also carry antihistamines like chlorphenamine (Piriton) in case of insect stings. Can I use human antiseptics like iodine or Dettol on my dog's wound? No. Products like iodine and TCP can be toxic if a pet licks the wound afterward and may cause stinging, so saline is a safer choice for cleaning cuts and wounds at home. How do I stop my dog's nail from bleeding after a bad trim? Apply styptic powder directly to the nail and hold pressure, since nail, ear, and tail wounds tend to bleed heavily and steadily despite looking dramatic. What is the correct way to treat heat stroke in a dog? Move your dog to shade, wet them down with cool water, use a fan to increase airflow over the wet coat, and offer small amounts of water to drink. Never cover them in dry towels, which trap heat rather than releasing it, and always seek veterinary attention afterward. Why are French Bulldogs and other flat-faced breeds more at risk during heat stroke? Brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs have narrower airways that make it harder for them to cool themselves through panting, so they can overheat faster and show fewer obvious warning signs before a serious heat stroke occurs. What should I do if my dog gets bitten by a snake? Flush the bite area thoroughly with saline, never apply a tourniquet, and get your dog to a vet as quickly as possible, while trying to avoid walking dogs off-leash near vegetation at dusk when snakes are most... | |||
| 14: Who Will Care for Your Dog? How to Choose the Right Godparent for Your Pup | 26 Sep 2025 | 00:24:58 | |
TL;DR 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. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Fetch or Forget - FURminator Where Tails meet hearts - Elko's journey on Away on Earth Paw-lebrity of the Week - Billy the Kid Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[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 FAQ What is a dog godparent? A dog godparent is a trusted person who agrees in advance to care for your dog if you're no longer able to, so your dog has a planned, loving home rather than an uncertain future. How do I choose the right godparent for my dog? Look for someone who truly loves dogs, has the time, energy, and financial capacity to care for them, and shares your values, rather than defaulting to whoever seems most convenient. Isn't planning for this too morbid? No. This isn't about being morbid, it's about giving your pup the gift of security, and it can even be made into a joyful moment rather than a heavy one. What should I consider financially when choosing a godparent? Consider whether the person you're choosing has the finances to support your dog's ongoing needs, and think about whether setting aside funds or making a plan in advance would ease that responsibility for them. What if life circumstances change after I've chosen a godparent? Life happens, and accidents or illness can happen too, so it's worth revisiting your choice periodically to make sure the person you've chosen still has the capacity and willingness to step in. How can I make choosing a godparent a positive experience rather than a stressful one? Make it a joyful moment. Frame the conversation as an honor rather than a burden, and celebrate the decision once it's made. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 13: How to create a dog friendly community with Doggie Adventures Yvonne Senden | 19 Sep 2025 | 00:38:47 | |
TL;DR In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell speaks with Yvonne Sendin, 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. Guest Bio:Yvonne Sendin is a Dutch expat and the founder of Doggie Adventures, the leading dog-friendly directory and community platform in the UAE, established in 2018. After relocating to Dubai with her rescue dog Boefje, Yvonne turned a personal list of dog-friendly cafes into a UAE-wide resource for pet parents. She is also a co-founder of Leash Explorer, an annual UAE-wide dog adventure challenge, and the creator of Woof Stock, a sensory-conscious dog festival designed with dogs' comfort in mind. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Doggie Adventures (Website, Instagram, Youtube) Leash Explorer (Website, Instagram) WoofStock (Website, Instagram) Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[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 FAQ Is the UAE dog-friendly? The UAE has a growing number of dog-friendly cafes, restaurants, hotels, and hiking trails, largely thanks to community efforts like Doggie Adventures, but dog-friendly status can vary by venue and has become more restricted in recent years due to irresponsible pet owner behavior. Why are dog-friendly places closing in Dubai and the UAE? Many venues have lost their dog-friendly status because owners let dogs off-leash indoors, failed to clean up after their pets, or allowed dogs on furniture and tables, leading to municipality warnings and fines that push businesses to stop allowing dogs altogether. What is Leash Explorer? Leash Explorer is a UAE-wide dog adventure challenge co-founded by Doggie Adventures, HK9, and Ginger's Way, featuring an annual multi-Emirate activation in February and March plus a season of monthly group hikes designed for dogs of all sociability levels. What is Woof Stock? Woof Stock is a dog-focused festival created by Doggie Adventures that prioritizes dogs' sensory comfort with calm music, no flashing lights, and color-coded sociability assessments, alongside activities, workshops, adoption opportunities, and vendors for their humans. How can I find dog-friendly places in the UAE? The Doggie Adventures directory lists dog-friendly cafes, restaurants, hotels, and hiking trails across the UAE, and can be saved as a Google Maps list for quick access wherever you are. How do I make my building or neighborhood more dog-friendly? Start by checking whether your building management allows dogs at all, then ask individual venues directly if they'll accommodate your dog (outdoor seating is more likely to be approved than indoor), and always model responsible pet etiquette to build trust with venues considering going dog-friendly. What should I do if I see a dog owner behaving irresponsibly in public? Politely and calmly addressing the behavior directly, or speaking to venue staff or management about training their team to be more assertive, can help. Doggie Adventures also offers free consultations to businesses that want support becoming genuinely dog-friendly. Are reactive dogs welcome at Leash Explorer events? Yes. Leash Explorer uses color-coded leash sleeves based on sociability behavior so other dog owners know whether a dog wants to be approached, making the events inclusive for reactive and shy dogs as well as social ones. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability | |||
| 12: How to Choose the Right Vet or Animal Hospital for Your Dog | 12 Sep 2025 | 00:21:50 | |
TL;DR In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell discusses the essential steps in choosing the right veterinarian for your dog. She shares her personal experiences and insights on what to consider, including the dog's specific needs, location, vet costs, emergency preparedness, and the importance of effective communication with your vet. The episode emphasizes the significance of trust and partnership in ensuring your pet's health and happiness. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: How to choose your vet - checklist Where Tails meet hearts - 1510 Foundation (Meemaw's story) Paw-lebrity of the Week - Leo (Dad Charles Leclerc, Mom Alexandra Malena Saint Mleux) Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]- Choosing the Right Vet for Your Dog [10:23]- Understanding Vet Costs and Insurance [13:49]- Emergency Preparedness and Specialist Care [17:44]- Where Tails meet hearts - 1510 Foundation (Meemaw's story) [19:12]- Paw-lebrity of the Week - Leo (Dad Charles Leclerc, Mom Alexandra Malena Saint Mleux) [23:16]- Recap and Key Takeaways FAQ How do I choose the right veterinarian for my dog? Start by identifying your dog's specific health needs and any breed-related risks, then gather recommendations from friends and neighbors, and consider location and accessibility alongside cost and communication style before committing to a clinic. What questions should I ask a vet before choosing them? Ask about pricing for common services, whether they offer 24/7 emergency access or after-hours protocols, and whether they have experience with your dog's specific breed or health conditions. How much does veterinary care typically cost for a dog? Costs vary widely by clinic and location, and by your dog's specific health needs, so it's worth asking for estimates on vaccinations, bloodwork, and common procedures upfront rather than being surprised later. What should I look for when I first visit a vet? Watch how the clinic staff and vet interact with your dog, whether they take the time to build comfort and trust, and whether they explain things clearly rather than using confusing jargon. What should my dog's emergency vet plan include? Every pet parent should know their regular vet's after-hours policy and have a nearby 24/7 emergency clinic identified in advance, so you're not scrambling to find one during an actual crisis. Why is communication with my vet so important? Since your dog can't describe their own symptoms, you are their voice, and a good vet needs to listen to your concerns and explain diagnoses and treatment options in plain language. Should I get pet insurance? Weighing insurance or a membership plan against your dog's actual healthcare needs and history is worth doing early, since costs can add up quickly, especially for breeds prone to health issues. How do I know if my vet is the right long-term fit? Trust and partnership are essential, so if you consistently feel heard, respected, and well-informed after appointments, that's a strong sign you've found the right vet for the long term. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 11: Adopt or Shop? | 05 Sep 2025 | 00:26:46 | |
TL;DR In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell explores the important decision of whether to adopt or shop for a dog. She emphasizes the value of adoption, sharing personal stories and statistics about the current state of dog shelters. The conversation delves into the challenges of adopting dogs, including potential trauma and the thorough application process. Mariska also discusses the pros and cons of purchasing from reputable breeders versus puppy mills, highlighting the ethical considerations involved. Ultimately, she encourages listeners to approach dog ownership with intention and commitment, regardless of their choice. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: How dogs are assisting with scientific research with Kayla Fratt How to Make Your Pet Adoption Application Stand Out Kevin's Video (the two classic Frenchie moods) Kevin's Video (how much can happen in just a blink) Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]- Introduction to Dog Adoption vs. Shopping [02:55]- The Case for Adoption [05:42]- Challenges of Adoption [08:46]- Understanding Dog Shopping [11:33]- The Dark Side of Breeding [14:47]- Finding the Right Dog for You [16:40]- Where Tails meet hearts - Rolls and Underbites. [18:40]- Paw-lebrity of the Week - The Kevin and Kayla Show FAQ Should I adopt or buy a dog from a breeder? Adoption is generally the more responsible choice because it saves a life and helps address shelter overcrowding, but buying from a reputable, health-screening, and transparent breeder can also be an ethical option depending on your circumstances. What is dog "decompression time" after adoption? Decompression time is the period a newly adopted dog needs to adjust to a new home, requiring structure, patience, and space, since many rescue dogs carry some level of past trauma that takes time and consistency to work through. How do I know if a dog breeder is reputable? A reputable breeder is transparent about health issues, runs genetic health panels and screens for hereditary conditions, and raises puppies in a safe, enriching environment rather than mass-producing litters. What are puppy mills and why are they harmful? Puppy mills prioritize profit over welfare, often breeding dogs relentlessly under poor conditions with no regard for genetic health, which is why researching a breeder thoroughly matters so much if you choose to buy rather than adopt. Is adopting a dog cheaper than buying one? It depends. Adoption fees are often lower than a breeder's price and typically include vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and microchipping, though costs can rise if a dog needs extensive veterinary care. What should I consider before getting a dog, adopted or purchased? Honestly assess whether you can meet a dog's emotional and physical needs, whether you're prepared for training and bonding, and whether your lifestyle and energy level match the dog's, regardless of how you bring them home. Can a rescue dog with a difficult past still become a great companion? Yes. With consistent training, patience, and love, even rescue dogs with challenging pasts can transform significantly over time into loving, well-adjusted companions. Does it matter more how I got my dog, or how I care for them afterward? How you care for your dog afterward matters most. Regardless of whether you adopt or buy, responsible pet ownership, meaning consistent care, training, and commitment, is what truly determines a dog's quality of life. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 10: Tails and Tones Journey | 29 Aug 2025 | 00:19:13 | |
TL;DR In this episode of Tails and Tones, Mariska shares her personal journey as a dog parent, highlighting the challenges faced in pet care and the quest for sustainable products. She traces the "kettlebell incident," when her French Bulldog Piper collapsed mid-walk, alongside two failed pet strollers, and how those experiences, combined with her Master's in Sustainable Design, pushed her to research the pet industry's waste problem and start building durable, sustainable products instead of settling for disposable ones. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Ryan Daniel Moran's Book, 12 Months to $1million Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]- Introduction to the Journey of Pet Care [04:34]- Challenges of Pet Ownership [09:00]- The Quest for Sustainable Pet Products [14:10]- The Birth of a Pet Company [18:49]- Building a Community of Dog Parents FAQ Why did Mariska start Tails and Tones? Mariska started Tails and Tones after struggling to find pet gear that was both durable and sustainable, following the "kettlebell incident" with her dog Piper and two different strollers that failed her within months. What is the "kettlebell incident" that inspired Tails and Tones? The kettlebell incident refers to the day Piper suddenly stopped walking mid-walk and had to be carried home, feeling far heavier than her actual weight and leaving Mariska's arms shaking by the time she got home. Are pet products bad for the environment? Many mass-market pet products are designed for short-term use, meaning they often end up needing replacement well before a dog's own lifespan is over. Why is sustainability lagging in the pet industry? The pet industry is growing rapidly, but product design hasn't kept pace, with many items built for convenience and price rather than durability or eco-friendliness. What is Tails and Tones' first product? Tails and Tones' first product is Elevé, a modular, height-adaptive feeding system designed to be durable and evolve with a dog's changing needs, inspired directly by challenges Mariska faced with her own dog, Piper. How can I join the Tails and Tones waiting list or newsletter? You can join the waiting list from the link in our instagram bio and sign up for the newsletter at newsletter.tailsandtones.com to stay updated on the first product launch. What did Mariska study before starting Tails and Tones? Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, and a post graduate degree in Environmental Science, directly informing the design philosophy behind Tails and Tones and its focus on durability and repairability. Why does community matter for a pet brand like Tails and Tones? Community engagement helps shape the products themselves, since listener stories and feedback have directly influenced how Tails and Tones designs for the real needs of dog parents. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 9: Indoor Enrichment for Dogs: Fun Activities | 22 Aug 2025 | 00:29:31 | |
TL;DR In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska discusses how to keep dogs entertained indoors, especially during extreme weather conditions. She shares personal anecdotes about responsible pet ownership and the importance of picking up after dogs. The episode highlights various indoor enrichment activities, including games like hide and seek, the toilet roll challenge, and tug of war, as well as the significance of rotating enrichment toys to keep dogs mentally stimulated. Mariska also shares heartwarming stories about dogs making a difference in their communities, emphasizing the bond between pets and their owners. Bonus tip: you can always take your pet to the local pet shop or hardware store if they are dog friendly, a wonderful indoor snuffle too. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Fetch or Forget, Earth Rated Natural Rubber Treat Toy Where Tails meet hearts, Kelby & Nixie (That Nepa Newfie) Paw-lebrity of the Week, Some Frenchie Named Apollo Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]- Introduction to Indoor Dog Enrichment [03:29]- The Importance of Picking Up After Your Dog [04:15]- Keeping Dogs Happy Indoors [06:11]- Fun Indoor Games for Dogs [17:23]- Enrichment Toys and Puzzle Rotation [20:17]- Fetch or Forget, Earth Rated Natural Rubber Treat Toy [23:03]- Tug and Chase Play [26:55]- Trick Training Sessions [27:53]- Where Tails meet hearts, Kelby & Nixie (That Nepa Newfie) [29:37]- Paw-lebrity of the Week, Some Frenchie Named Apollo [31:07]- Recap and Conclusion *I mistakenly called Artemis a boy in this episode. Straight to doggy hell with me. Artemis, you’re a queen 👑apologies and virtual treats incoming! FAQ How can I keep my dog entertained indoors when it's too hot or cold to walk? Try rotating enrichment games like a hide-and-seek treasure hunt using their regular food, the toilet roll challenge, puzzle toy rotation, tug and chase play on carpet, and short trick-training sessions to keep them mentally and physically engaged without going outside. What is indoor enrichment for dogs? Indoor enrichment refers to mentally and physically stimulating activities done inside the home, designed to keep a dog engaged when regular walks aren't possible due to weather or other constraints. Is tug of war safe for dogs indoors? Yes and No, when played on a non-slip surface like carpet rather than tile, tug and chase games are a safe way to burn off energy indoors. Avoid encouraging quick, sharp turns, which can contribute to joint issues. If played on a regular and very intense it can cause issues. If you are concerned contact your vet. Why does my dog get bored of puzzle toys quickly? Dogs get faster at solving puzzle toys with repeated practice, so rotating between a few different toys helps keep them appropriately challenged. Is it safe to leave my dog alone with a toilet roll enrichment game? It's best to supervise this activity closely, since some dogs may try to eat the tubes once the treats are gone, so pack the game away once your dog shifts from searching to chewing. What if my dog can't go on a walk at all today? Consider taking them somewhere dog-friendly like a local pet shop or hardware store, which can double as a wonderful indoor snuffle outing when a proper walk isn't possible or do an indoor sniffari. Do I need to buy special toys for indoor enrichment? Not necessarily. Games like hide and seek, the toilet roll challenge, and tug of war can all be done with things you likely already have at home. How does trick training help with enrichment? Trick training gives dogs mental stimulation while strengthening the bond and communication between dog and owner, making it a valuable addition to any indoor enrichment routine. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 8: Neighbour Complaints About Your Dog? Here’s the Ultimate Guide to Keeping the Peace | 15 Aug 2025 | 00:23:49 | |
TL;DR In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska discusses the challenges dog owners face when neighbors complain about barking. She emphasizes the importance of understanding barking as a form of communication and offers practical steps for addressing complaints with neighbors. The conversation includes personal anecdotes, actionable advice, and heartwarming stories, all aimed at fostering a supportive community for dog parents. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Where Tails meet hearts, Padre João Paulo Paw-lebrity of the Week, Tuna (Traveling Tuna) Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]- Introduction to Dog Complaints [01:19]- Understanding Barking as Communication [02:39]- Navigating Neighbor Complaints [09:49]- Five Steps to Address Complaints [18:11]- Tools and Strategies for Dog Owners [17:40]- Fetch or Forget, Eufy Cam 2 Pro, Never versions available [20:22]- Where Tails meet hearts, Padre João Paulo [23:32]- Paw-lebrity of the Week, Tuna (Traveling Tuna) FAQ What should I do if my neighbor complains about my dog barking? Stay calm rather than reacting emotionally, assess the complaint neutrally using camera footage or by checking with other neighbors, fix the issue if it's valid, communicate proactively with your neighbor about your progress, and stand your ground if the complaint turns out to be unreasonable. Why does my dog bark so much when I leave the house? Excessive barking when left alone is often a sign of separation anxiety, boredom, or under-stimulation, and can be improved through gradual alone-time training, pre-departure exercise, and enrichment toys or puzzle feeders. Is it normal to feel guilty when a neighbor complains about my dog? Yes, it's a very common reaction, but a complaint isn't proof you're a bad dog parent. It usually reflects a gap between your neighbor's expectations and your dog's current behavior, which can be worked on together. What tools can help reduce a dog's barking at home? White noise machines can mask outside triggers, pet cameras with custom zone detection let you monitor and address behavior remotely, and visual blocks can help with fence reactivity. Should I confront my neighbor if their complaint about my dog seems unfair? Investigate first, checking your camera footage and asking other neighbors what they've noticed, and if the complaint isn't supported by evidence, calmly share what you found and offer to be notified directly next time so you can address it in real time. What is a dog apology basket? A dog apology basket is a small gesture for an affected neighbor that might include earplugs, a handwritten note explaining you're actively training your dog, and a treat, showing genuine effort and helping smooth over tension. How do I know if a barking complaint is actually valid? Assess it neutrally rather than reacting emotionally, using camera footage, timing, and consistency as your guide, and check in with other neighbors before deciding whether and how to respond. What are the five steps to handling a neighbor's complaint about my dog? Stay calm, assess the complaint neutrally, fix the issue if it's valid, communicate proactively with your neighbor, and stand your ground against complaints that turn out to be unreasonable. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 7: Dog Parks Dirty Looks and Drama The Real Talk Guide to Dog Etiquette | 08 Aug 2025 | 00:21:41 | |
TL;DR In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska discusses essential dog etiquette for pet owners, emphasizing the importance of responsible pet ownership, training, and socialization. She shares personal experiences and practical tips on navigating public spaces with dogs, ensuring their health and safety, and fostering a supportive dog-loving community. The episode concludes with a heartwarming story about a dog rescue foundation and a spotlight on a unique dog personality, reinforcing the joy and responsibility of being a dog parent. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Leave a review on Podchaser Where Tails meet hearts - Jason Heigl Foundation and Badlands Ranch Pet Paw-lebrity of the Week - Dolly Pawton Coming in the next episode:In the next episode, we are digging into what do you do when your neighbours complain about your dog. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]- Understanding Dog Etiquette [01:49]- Leash? [03:25]- Dog Poop [08:41]- Training and Socialization for Dogs [13:11]-Doggie Adventures UAE [13:25]- Navigating Public Spaces with Dogs [18:05]- Health and Safety for Dogs [18:35]- Where Tails meet hearts - Jason Heigl Foundation and Badlands Ranch Pet [20:14]- Paw-lebrity of the Week - Dolly Pawton FAQ What is proper dog park etiquette? Proper dog park etiquette includes always asking before letting your dog approach another dog or person, keeping your dog leashed where required, cleaning up after them without exception, and respecting signals that another dog or owner isn't comfortable interacting. Is it okay to let my dog off-leash if they have good recall? Leash rules exist for the comfort and safety of everyone sharing the space, not just your own dog's behavior, so even a well-trained dog should stay leashed in on-leash areas out of respect for people and pets who may not be comfortable. Does "he's friendly" mean I can let my dog approach another dog? No. Even if your dog is friendly, the other dog or person may not want an interaction, so it's always best to ask first rather than assume friendliness is enough. Why do dogs need up-to-date vaccinations? Current vaccinations and health records are essential for travel, boarding, and training enrollment, and having documentation on hand avoids delays or having to redo vaccinations unnecessarily. How can I tell if a dog is uncomfortable during an interaction? Watch for stiffening, avoided eye contact, pinned-back ears, raised hackles, or a tucked tail, all signs a dog is uncomfortable and needs space rather than continued interaction. How do I know when to leave my dog at home instead of bringing them out? Consider the environment (extreme heat, crowds, or unfamiliar settings) and your dog's own comfort level, since dog-friendly doesn't always mean dog-appropriate for every outing. What can I do to help make my city or community more dog-friendly? Model responsible behavior yourself, like cleaning up after your dog and respecting leash rules, and use resources like Doggie Adventures UAE to find and support genuinely dog-friendly spaces. How can I support dog rescue efforts like the ones featured on this episode? Following and supporting organizations like the Jason Heigl Foundation, and being mindful of ethical, responsible pet ownership in your own life, both help build a stronger dog-loving community. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 6: Don’t Feed Your Dog This: Common Foods That Can Kill or Harm Them | 01 Aug 2025 | 00:20:00 | |
TL;DR In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska discusses the critical topic of food and household items that can be toxic or deadly to dogs. She provides a comprehensive guide on what pet parents need to know, including common human foods that are dangerous, household items to avoid, and natural dangers in the environment. The episode also emphasizes the importance of emergency preparedness for pet owners and shares heartwarming rescue stories, along with a spotlight on a celebrity pet. Mariska encourages listeners to be informed and proactive in ensuring their pets' safety. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Where Tails meet hearts - Dino and Ruby video Paw-lebrity of the Week - Pug Lou Lou Pug Mosy Coming in the next episode:In the next episode, we are digging into the dog etiquette every good dog owner should have. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]- Introduction to Dog Safety and Toxic Foods [02:36]- Common Human Foods That Are Toxic to Dogs [05:22]- Household Items and Medications Dangerous for Dogs [08:01]- Natural Dangers in the Environment [10:39]- Emergency Preparedness for Dog Owners [13:31]- Where Tails meet hearts - Dino and Ruby's video [16:28]- Paw-lebrity of the Week - Pug Lou Lou and Pug Mosy FAQ What human foods are toxic to dogs? Chocolate, grapes, raisins, sultanas, currants, alcohol, macadamia nuts and other tree nuts, avocado, onions, garlic, chives, leeks, and caffeine are all toxic to dogs and should never be shared, even in small amounts. Is chocolate really dangerous for dogs? Yes. Chocolate contains theobromine, a compound dogs cannot metabolize properly, and even a small amount can be dangerous or deadly depending on the dog's size and the type of chocolate. Are grapes and raisins poisonous to dogs? Yes. Grapes, raisins, sultanas, and currants can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs, and even a small amount can be dangerous, so they should be kept completely out of reach. What should I do if my dog eats something toxic? Stay calm, note the time it happened, move your dog and the hazard to a safe area, do not induce vomiting unless a vet instructs you to, and call your vet or animal poison control immediately with details of what, how much, and when your dog ate it. Are mushrooms dangerous for dogs? Yes, mushrooms can be extremely toxic for dogs, so it's worth checking your yard after rain and keeping a close eye on your dog during walks where wild mushrooms might be growing. Are lilies and other houseplants dangerous for dogs? Yes, plants like lilies, tulips, daffodils, and cycads are all risky for dogs if chewed or ingested, so these should be kept out of reach or avoided in homes with dogs. Can dogs have human medication? No, never give a dog human medication without veterinary guidance. Common medications can be fatal, so anything a vet prescribes for a dog should be clearly identified as such when filled at a pharmacy. How can I be better prepared for a pet emergency? Have a little bit of an emergency plan in place before you need it, including your vet's number, a nearby emergency clinic, and a quick-reference guide to toxic foods and substances. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| A Tail of Gratitude: The Thank-You Episode | 25 Jul 2025 | 00:08:25 | |
TL;DR In this heartfelt episode, Mariska expresses deep gratitude to the many individuals and organizations that have supported her and her dog, Piper, throughout their journey. From the medical teams that cared for Piper to the dog community that welcomed them, Mariska highlights the importance of support and love in pet parenting. She reflects on the joy and lessons learned along the way, emphasizing the bond between pets and their owners. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Murdoch Small Animal Surgeries Houndstooth Studio by Alex Cearns Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00]-Intro [01:11]- No Pup Cleft Behind [02:07]- Waroona Veterinary Clinic Dr. Ron, Kellie, and the nursing staff at Waroona Veterinary Clinic [02:27]- Murdoch University Animal Hospital – Small Animal Surgery Professor Giselle Hosgood [02:59]- Greencross Vets Subiaco [03:25]- Fremantle Animal Hospital (Freo Vets) Dr. Garnett, Dr. Kristy, and the nursing team at Fremantle Animal Hospital [03:56]- Subiaco Common Dog Park [04:02]- Katie & Austin [04:14]- Denise and Boy George [04:20]- Simone and Floyed [04:31]- Anne [04:48]- Danielle [04:57]- Mark, Nicky, and Moose [05:56]- Happy Tails – Perth Amanda and her referees at Happy Tails [06:03]- Bruno’s Play Center – Dubai Jimmy and his team at Bruno’s Play Center [07:58]- Podcast Websites / Captivate / Rebel Base Media [08:25]- FluentPet [10:18]- Alex Cearns from Houndstooth Studio FAQ Who is this bonus episode dedicated to? This episode is Mariska's thank you to everyone who supported her and Piper, including veterinary teams, rescue organizations, dog park friends, daycare centers, and the podcast's production partners. Why is community support important for pet parents, especially those with a medically complex dog? Community support, whether from veterinary specialists, daycare teams, or fellow dog parents, provides both practical help and emotional reassurance during the ups and downs of caring for a dog with ongoing health needs like Piper's. Which veterinary clinics cared for Piper throughout her journey? Piper's care team included Waroona Veterinary Clinic, Murdoch University Animal Hospital's Small Animal Surgery department, Greencross Vets Subiaco, and Fremantle Animal Hospital (Freo Vets), spanning her early years in Australia. In Dubai we had the amazing team at Amity, Dr Wells and Umm Suqeim Veterinary Centre taking care of her. What role did No Pup Cleft Behind play in Piper's story? No Pup Cleft Behind is the rescue organization that supported Piper's early life with a cleft palate, playing a foundational role in her journey and, later, in the mission behind Tails and Tones. How does this episode connect to the mission behind Tails and Tones? Piper's personality and journey, including the community and medical support she received, directly inspired the creation of the podcast and shaped the values behind the Tails and Tones brand. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 5: Dog Boarding, Pet Sitters, or Family? How to Choose the Best Care While You’re Away | 18 Jul 2025 | 00:00:41 | |
TL;DR In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska discusses the various options for pet care when traveling, emphasizing the importance of safety and comfort for pets. She shares personal experiences and criteria for selecting pet sitters, explores different care options including pet sitting, boarding, and trusted house sitters, and highlights the value of community support among pet parents. The episode concludes with heartwarming pet stories and a spotlight on celebrity pets, reinforcing the bond between pets and their owners. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: KONG Signature Small/Petit Ball Crusoe the Celebrity Dachshund Paw-lebrity of the Week, Gnocchi the Frenchie Gnocchi's clothing brand - Life of Leisure Coming in the next episode:In the next episode, we are digging into things your dog should not be eating. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00] -Introduction to Pet Care Dilemmas [02:23] -Navigating Pet Care Options [05:23] -Criteria for Choosing a Pet Sitter [08:07] -Exploring Pet Sitting and Boarding [10:57] -Understanding Trusted House Sitters [14:00] -The Role of Friends and Family in Pet Care [16:35] -Community Support for Pet Parents [19:05] - Fetch or Forget [19:37] -Where Tails meet hearts - Crusoe The Dachshund [22:19] -Paw-lebrity of the Week - Gnocchi The Frenchie [25:19] -Final Thoughts on Pet Care FAQ What are the best options for pet care when traveling? The main options are pet sitting, whether at your home or the sitter's, pet boarding or daycare, trusted house-sitting platforms, and asking friends or family, with the right choice depending on your dog's personality, your budget, and how long you'll be away. How do I choose a good pet sitter? Look for a sitter with a clear plan for emergencies and a strong reputation, and confirm your dog reacts well to them during a meet and greet before booking an overnight stay. Is pet sitting legal everywhere? Not necessarily. Pet sitting for pay is a grey area in some regions, so it's important to check whether sitters in your area need to be licensed or insured before hiring one. Should I do a trial run before boarding my dog for a long trip? Yes, starting with a short stay before a full holiday helps your dog build trust with the sitter or facility and gives you confidence that a longer stay will go smoothly. What should I look for in a dog boarding facility? Tour the facility beforehand, ask about emergency procedures and supervision, and see what a typical day looks like, since popular facilities can fill up quickly around holidays. Is it okay to ask friends or family to look after my dog? Yes, if your dog already knows and trusts them, but it's still worth treating it professionally by discussing an emergency plan and confirming your dog feels genuinely comfortable with them. What is a trusted house-sitting platform? Platforms like Trusted Housesitters connect you with vetted sitters who stay in your home to care for your pet, which means your pet stays in a familiar environment and your home gets looked after too. How can community support help pet parents who need to travel? Offering to help a fellow dog parent, or accepting help when it's offered, can build a genuine safety net that makes pet care while traveling feel far less stressful for everyone involved. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| How to Support the Tails and Tones Podcast | 18 Jul 2025 | 00:04:36 | |
TL;DR Thank you for being part of the Tails and Tones pack! If you're wondering how to support the podcast, this episode walks through simple ways to help it grow, from listening and leaving a review to subscribing, sharing, joining the newsletter, and even becoming a monthly supporter or sponsor. Every bit of support helps spread joyful, stress-free dog parenting tips to more pet parents. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Thank you for being part of the Tails and Tones pack! If you’re wondering how to support the podcast, here are a few simple ways to help us grow: Ways to Support the Podcast:1. Listen to More Episodes Listen to the podcast on your favorite platform 2. Leave a Review Reviews help others find the show and tell me what’s resonating with you. You can leave a review on: 3. Subscribe or Follow Hit the Subscribe or Follow button on your podcast app so you never miss an episode. 4. Share the Podcast Know someone navigating life with a new puppy? Or a friend who treats their senior dog like royalty (as they should!)? Send them your favorite episode. 5. Join the conversation on on Social Media Follow along on Instagram @tailsandtones. Your likes, comments, and DMs keep the tail wags going. 6. Join Our Newsletter Get bite-sized updates, behind-the-scenes sneak peeks, and exclusives to your inbox. Subscribe here or via our Instagram bio Feeling Extra Generous?Become a Monthly Supporter Help keep the mics on and the kibble flowing, by joining our monthly membership. Your support directly helps keep the podcast going and growing, and you’ll get access to exclusive perks. Sponsor or Collaborate with Us Are you a pet brand or dog-friendly biz with a mission that aligns with ours? We’re opening up a few sponsorship and collaboration spots! If you’d love to team up, message us directly on Instagram @tailsandtones. Your support, whether through listening, sharing, reviewing, or partnering, helps us spread joyful, stress-free dog parenting tips and inspires more pet parents to raise happy, healthy pups. Thank you for being part of the Tails and Tones journey, where every tail tells a story, and every tone speaks from the heart. FAQ How can I support the Tails and Tones podcast? You can support the podcast by listening to episodes, leaving a review, subscribing or following on your podcast app, sharing episodes with friends, following on Instagram, joining the newsletter, becoming a monthly supporter, or exploring a sponsorship or collaboration. Where can I leave a review for Tails and Tones? You can leave a review on Podchaser, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite listening platform, with how-to videos available for each option. Is there a way to financially support the podcast? Yes, listeners can become a monthly supporter through the Tails and Tones membership on Patreon, which helps fund the podcast's production and comes with exclusive perks. Can my pet brand sponsor or collaborate with Tails and Tones? Yes, Tails and Tones is opening up a few sponsorship and collaboration spots for pet brands and dog-friendly businesses whose mission aligns with theirs. Reach out directly via Instagram to start the conversation. How do I stay updated on new episodes and announcements? Subscribe or follow the podcast on your listening app, follow @tailsandtones on Instagram, and join the newsletter for bite-sized updates and behind-the-scenes content. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 4: Prepping for Paws: How to Make Your Home Dog-Ready | 11 Jul 2025 | 00:32:03 | |
TL;DR In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska discusses how to prepare your home for a new dog, covering essential items, safety measures, and the importance of crate training. She shares personal anecdotes and practical tips for first-time dog owners, emphasizing the need for a safe and loving environment for pets. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Frankie selecting her piggie Doug the Poug's graduation video Coming in the next episode:In the next episode, we are digging into boarding, pet sitting or what do you do when you go on holiday. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00] Getting Ready for a New Dog [01:14] Pawsative Rant [02:37] Essential Preparations for Dog Owners [05:22] Creating a Safe Space for Your Dog [08:16] Understanding Dog Needs and Training [15:21] Fetch or Forget - Forever Frankie Adjustable Harness [28:10] Where Tails meet hearts - Doug the Poug's graduation video [29:30]- Paw-lebrity of the Week - Koa the doodle (Mom - Katherine Dad - Collin) FAQ How do I dog-proof my home before a new puppy arrives? Get down to your dog's eye level to spot cords, sharp corners, and other hazards, decide in advance where your dog will sleep, eat, and go potty, and secure any hidden hazards before your dog comes home. Where should a new puppy sleep? Choose a cozy, secure spot that isn't isolated but also isn't in the middle of household chaos, and consider a comfort item nearby to help ease the transition for a puppy sleeping alone for the first time. Is crate training necessary for a new dog? Crate training isn't mandatory, but a crate can provide a safe, secure space for your dog, and baby gates are a good alternative if you prefer not to crate train. How can I get pet supplies cheaply before adopting a dog? Local Buy Nothing groups are an excellent source for gently used beds, bowls, harnesses, and other supplies, often at no cost, while also connecting you with other dog parents in your area. Should I put my home address on my dog's name tag? No, it's safer to include your dog's name and a phone number rather than a home address, since publicly listing where you live could make your dog a target for theft. How do I know what toys my dog will actually like? Let your dog "choose" their own toys at the pet shop by watching what they sniff and return to, rather than guessing based on what looks appealing to you. Why should I use a doggy cam? A doggy cam can give you peace of mind by letting you see what your dog is doing when left alone, helping you respond appropriately rather than overreacting to every noise. What should I prioritize first when preparing for a new dog? Start with the basics: where your dog will sleep, eat, and go potty, along with safety-proofing your space, before worrying about extras like toys or accessories. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 3: How to Create the Ultimate Dog Manual for Sitters, Travel, and Peace of Mind | 04 Jul 2025 | 00:31:43 | |
TL;DR In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell discusses the importance of creating a personalized dog manual for pet owners. She emphasizes the need for trust when leaving dogs with sitters and provides a comprehensive guide on what to include in a dog manual, such as emergency contacts, medical history, daily routines, and personality traits. The episode also features heartwarming stories from the dog community, highlighting the bond between dogs and their owners. During This Episode:
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Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Downloadable Dog Manual Template Live Like Piggie , Harold The Little Lad's video Coming in the next episode:In the next episode, , we’re talking about how to get your house dog ready. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00] Introduction to Dog Manuals [02:10] Ask a Soulful Mom: Leaving Your Dog Alone [05:54] The Importance of a Dog Manual [10:13] Emergency Information in the Dog Manual [14:00] Medical History and Medications [17:50] Understanding Your Dog's Personality [22:09] Daily Routines and Preferences [26:57] House Rules and Access Information [26:04] Where Tails Meet Hearts Segment Stories from the Pet Community - Live Like Piggie, Harrold The Little Lad [29:03] Celebrating our Paw-lebrity of the Week - Cricket the Gremlin with her sombreros and berets FAQ What should be included in a dog manual for a pet sitter? A good dog manual should include a snapshot of your dog's basic details, emergency vet and contact information, medical history and medications, personality quirks, daily routines for meals and walks, potty schedule, and house access details. Why do I need a dog manual if I already tell the sitter everything? A written manual fills the gaps between what you've said out loud and what a sitter actually remembers in the moment, especially during an emergency. What emergency information should I include for my pet sitter? Include your vet's name, address, contact number, and opening hours, a backup animal hospital, and at least one or two emergency contacts in case you can't be reached. How often should I update my dog's manual? Update it regularly, whenever your dog's routine, medical needs, or personality quirks change, since an outdated manual can be as unhelpful as having no manual at all. What's the best way to prepare a sitter for my dog's quirks? List specific behavioral quirks so the sitter can anticipate and avoid problem situations rather than discovering them by accident. Should I include photos in my dog's manual? Yes, photos and visuals make a manual easier to scan quickly, which matters most in a stressful, time-sensitive moment. What is the "downloadable dog manual template" mentioned in this episode? It's a free template Mariska created to help pet parents build their own comprehensive dog manual, covering everything from emergency contacts to daily routines. How can engaging with the dog community help me as a pet parent? Following and sharing stories from accounts like Live Like Piggie and Harold the Little Lad can offer both practical inspiration and emotional support from other people navigating similar pet parenting journeys. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 2: How to Make Your Pet Adoption Application Stand Out | 04 Jul 2025 | 00:30:53 | |
TL;DR In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell discusses the challenges of pet adoption applications, especially during high-demand periods. She shares valuable tips on how to craft a standout application, emphasizing the importance of treating it like a job application, telling a personal story, and being honest about one's lifestyle and living situation. The episode also highlights the significance of community support in pet rescue and adoption, featuring heartwarming stories of individuals who have gone above and beyond for their pets. During This Episode:
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Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Paris Hilton's Chihuahua, Harajuku Meet your Dog Book By Kim Brophey Where Tails meet heart - Sittie and the 3 Snouts and Their Abouts Coming in the next episode:In the next episode, we’re talking about dog manuals, not ones that come with your pet (though we wish they did!), but the one you create for sitters, friends, or day cares when you're away. So stay tuned! Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00] Introduction to Pet Adoption Applications [04:01] Understanding the Role of Rescues [07:49] Top Tips for a Standout Application [16:24] Navigating the Application Process [24:47] Where Tails Meet Hearts Segment Stories from the Pet Community [27:47] Celebrating our Paw-lebrity of the Week - ErocDog, skating with Tony Hawk FAQ How many applications does a rescue dog typically get? Rescue dogs can receive anywhere from none, a handful to over 200 applications for a single dog, particularly during high-demand periods, which is why a thoughtful, specific application matters so much. How do I make my pet adoption application stand out? Treat it like a job application: be thorough and error-free, tell a genuine personal story about why you want this specific dog, describe your lifestyle and living situation honestly, and provide references. Should I be honest about my lifestyle in an adoption application? Yes, describing your true lifestyle helps the rescue match you with a dog that will genuinely thrive in your home rather than one that isn't suited to your routine. Should I mention if I've had past pet experiences worth noting on an adoption application? Yes, transparency matters. Explaining past experiences honestly helps rescues make informed placement decisions and shows you take pet ownership seriously. How soon should I follow up after submitting an adoption application? A single, polite follow-up shows genuine interest without overwhelming a rescue team that may be reviewing hundreds of applications. What should I research before applying to adopt a specific dog? Look into the breed's typical needs, training considerations, and local vet options, since showing you've done your homework signals genuine preparedness to a rescue. Do landlord restrictions affect pet adoption applications? Yes, many rescues ask about your living situation, so getting clarity or approval from your landlord before applying can strengthen your application. Why is community support important in pet rescue and adoption? Stories from the pet community, like the ones shared in this episode, remind rescues and adopters alike that the effort behind a thoughtful application is part of a much bigger, supportive network of people showing up for dogs. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||
| 1: 5 Dog Mom Mistakes I Made, And What They Taught Me | 04 Jul 2025 | 00:30:03 | |
TL;DR Have you ever wondered if you're making mistakes as a pet parent? Or maybe you've questioned whether other pet parents are facing the same struggles as you? You're not alone, and that's exactly what we're diving into on this episode. In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell shares her personal experiences as a dog mom, discussing five key mistakes she made while raising her dog, Piper. The conversation covers the importance of early training, understanding dog body language, recognizing overstimulation, and the necessity of dog-proofing the home. Mariska also emphasizes the significance of picking up after pets and shares a product review of the Chuckit! Air Fetch Ball, along with heartwarming stories from the pet community. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Relevant links mentioned in the episode: Piper disturbing sleeping dogs (Video Credit to No Pup Cleft Behind) Paw-lebrity of the Week Haya_London Coming in the next episode:In the next episode, we’ll be talking about how to make your pet adoption application stand out, so don’t miss it! Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:[00:00] Introduction to Pet Parenting Mistakes [01:45] The Importance of Early Training [06:36] Understanding Dog Body Language [10:58] Introducing the Ask a Soulful Mom Segment [11:39] Addressing Bad Habits in Dogs [13:53] Recognizing Overstimulation in Pets [16:53] The Pawsative Rant [19:38] Dog-Proofing Your Home [23:04] Final Thoughts on Learning from Mistakes [24:12] Fetch it or leave it - Product Review: Chukit Airfetch Ball [26:20] Where Tails Meet Hearts Segment Stories from the Pet Community - Bunny's Story [27:46] Celebrating our Paw-lebrity of the Week Haya_London FAQ What are common mistakes new dog parents make? Common mistakes include delaying early training, missing early signs of overstimulation or stress in a dog's body language, letting small bad habits go unaddressed, and not dog-proofing the home before problems occur, all of which are easier to prevent early than to correct later. Why is early training important for a new dog? Early training matters because dogs are constantly learning from every interaction with you, and the habits formed in the first weeks and months, good or bad, tend to stick, making early consistency far more effective than trying to retrain later. How can I tell if my dog is overstimulated? Signs of overstimulation can include heightened reactivity, an inability to settle, and excessive barking or jumping, so recognizing these cues early lets you intervene before it turns into a bigger behavioral issue. Why is understanding dog body language important? Understanding body language lets you catch stress, discomfort, or anxiety in your dog before it escalates into a bigger behavioral or health issue, helping you respond proactively rather than reactively. What does it mean to dog-proof your home? Dog-proofing means reviewing your space from your dog's perspective and removing or securing anything that could be chewed, swallowed, knocked over, or otherwise cause harm, ideally done before problems arise rather than after an incident. Is it normal to make mistakes as a new dog parent? Yes, making mistakes is a completely normal part of dog parenting, and being honest about them, as Mariska is in this episode, is one of the best ways to learn and become a more attentive, responsive pet parent. Why does picking up after your dog matter so much? It's a basic responsibility that protects shared spaces and shows respect for the wider dog-owning community, something Mariska emphasizes throughout this episode. What's a good first step if I recognize one of these mistakes in myself? Start with whichever mistake feels most urgent for your dog's safety or wellbeing, whether that's addressing a bad habit, dog-proofing a space, or brushing up on reading body language, since small, honest course-corrections add up over time. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the... | |||
| Tails and Tones — A Happy Place for Busy Dog Parents [Trailer] | 06 May 2025 | 00:01:56 | |
TL;DR Welcome to Tails and Tones, the short, fun podcast for busy pet parents who want to raise happy, healthy pups without the stress or second-guessing. Host Mariska Nell introduces the show, her background in sustainable design, and her rescue French Bulldog, Piper, ahead of the podcast's launch on July 4th. The show originally released new episodes every Friday, though it's currently on a once-a-month cadence while Mariska focuses on the upcoming product launch, with a return to more frequent episodes planned afterward. Each episode is packed with helpful tips, heartwarming stories, and honest reviews. During This Episode:
Takeaways:
Podcast Launched July 4th 2025 Welcome to Tails and Tones—the short, fun podcast for busy pet parents who want to raise happy, healthy pups without the stress or second-guessing. I’m Mariska Nell, Founder and host of Tails and Tones and Mama Earth Talk. I’ve got a background in design and environmental science, and I hold a Master’s in Sustainable Design, with a special focus on the pet industry. But most importantly, I’m a proud dog mom to Piper, my adorable rescue French Bulldog... and let’s be honest, the real boss of this show. Every month I share quick, practical episodes packed with helpful tips, heart-warming tails, and honest reviews—from “should I really buy that pet stroller?” to those “wish-I-knew-this-sooner” moments every dog parent goes through. Most episodes are just us hanging out, but every now and then I’ll bring on a guest or two to share their own stories and smarts. You can find Tails and Tones on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon—anywhere you listen. And if you’d like to subscribe, head over to Podcat.TailsandTones.com/listen. Because every tail tells a story, and every tone speaks from the heart. FAQ When does the Tails and Tones podcast launch? Tails and Tones launched on July 4th 2025. The show originally released new episodes every Friday, and is currently on a once-a-month schedule while Mariska focuses on our first product launch (A Food and Water Bowl), with more frequent episodes planned afterward. Who hosts the Tails and Tones podcast? Mariska Nell hosts Tails and Tones. She's also the founder and host of Mama Earth Talk, with a background in design and environmental science and a Master's in Sustainable Design focused on the pet industry. What kind of content can I expect from Tails and Tones? Expect quick, practical episodes packed with helpful tips, heartwarming stories, and honest reviews, covering everything from pet product reviews to the lessons every dog parent wishes they'd known sooner. Does the podcast feature guests? Most episodes are solo conversations with Mariska, but we also brings on a guests to share their own stories and expertise. Where can I listen to Tails and Tones? Tails and Tones is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon, and anywhere else you listen to podcasts, or you can subscribe directly at podcast.tailsandtones.com/listen. Who is Piper? Piper is Mariska's rescue French Bulldog, whose journey and personality directly inspired the creation of Tails and Tones. About the Author: Mariska NellMariska is the founder of Tails and Tones, a design-led, sustainable dog product brand. She's also the host of the Tails and Tones podcast, where she explores dog health, product design, and intentional pet parenting with experts, veterinarians, and fellow dog parents. Background: Mariska holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Design, a Bachelor's in Interior Design, and a Postgraduate qualification in Environmental Science. She's spent over 10 years working as a sustainability designer and strategist across the UAE, Australia, South Africa, the UK, and India. Her previous work includes collaborations with brands like Nespresso, Costa Coffee, and Dubai Airport, and she founded Design By Mariska, known for trash-to-treasure art exhibited at Dubai International Airport. She's also the host and founder of Mama Earth Talk, a sustainability podcast with 200+ episodes on zero waste and climate action, featuring guests including Dr. Sylvia Earle and the late Dr. Jane Goodall. She created the free Living Lighter course for practical sustainable living. Piper: Mariska shares her life and work with Piper, her French Bulldog rescue dog. Piper joined the family in 2021 at 5 months old and has been the Chief Paw-duct Tester for everything Tails and Tones creates. Piper's journey, including cleft palate repair, luxating patella, arthritis risk, and recent mobility challenges, directly shaped the founding mission of Elevé (Tails and Tones' first product: a modular, height-adaptive feeding system). Mission: We are on a mission to help modern dog parents simplify everyday care and elevate life with their pets, without sacrificing style or sustainability. Tails and Tones exists to build products that show up for dog parents, beautiful, sustainable, and robust enough to support you on the worst days. Not just the easy ones. You can find Mariska at @tailsandtones on Instagram, or visit tailsandtones.com to learn more about Elevé and the Tails and Tones mission. | |||