Tails and Tones

In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska dives into the world of French Bulldogs, exploring their rising popularity, the joys and challenges of owning one, and the significant health issues associated with the breed. Through personal anecdotes and expert insights, she emphasizes the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for awareness about the breed's health concerns. The episode also features heartwarming stories from the dog-loving community, showcasing the unique bond between Frenchies and their owners.Takeaways:French Bulldogs are incredibly popular but come with significant health issues.Owning a French Bulldog can cost around $15,000 a year.They are affectionate, loyal, and great companions for apartment living.Frenchies are prone to overheating and breathing difficulties due to their brachycephalic nature.Many French Bulldogs do not live long lives due to health complications.Responsible breeding practices are crucial for the health of the breed.Adopting a French Bulldog is often better than buying from breeders.Regular vet check-ups and health insurance are essential for Frenchie owners.French Bulldogs require special care, including monitoring during hot weather.Despite their challenges, French Bulldogs bring immense joy and love to their owners.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Breed-to-Breathe Campaign — British Veterinary AssociationWhere 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 15Timestamps 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...

In this episode of Tails & Tones, host Mariska Nell and Tori Mistick of Wear Wag Repeat explore how daily enrichment transforms your dog’s emotional health and confidence. Learn simple, practical ways to enrich your dog’s day, strengthen your bond, and bring more joy to both of your lives.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.Takeaways:Enrichment is connection, not distraction. It’s about understanding your dog’s emotions, not just keeping them busy.Small choices build confidence. Let your dog pick between treats, directions on a walk, or how they’d like to spend time with you.Balance is key. Mix active enrichment (sniff walks, games) with calm bonding (gentle petting, sound baths).DIY can be powerful. Muffin tins, towel burritos, and busy boxes make enrichment easy and low-cost.Presence matters most. True enrichment starts when we slow down and meet our dogs where they are.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Tori's Website Wear Wag Repeat, Wear Wag Repeat Podcast Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick PodcastMental Enrichment Activity Pack ($19)Instagram: @wearwagrepeat @tmistickTimestamps 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

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.Takeaways:Match first, breed second: A great fit reduces frustration, behavior issues, and rehoming risk.Know your energy + time: High-drive dogs need work, purpose, and movement. Low-key households should choose accordingly.Budget honestly: Some breeds can be costly; plan for vet care, training, nutrition, and insurance.Life changes matter: Think travel, kids, moves, retirement—pick a dog you can support through seasons.Tendencies ≠ destiny: Even within a breed, personalities vary. Respect the individual in front of you.Use categories as a compass: Brophey’s groupings (e.g., sighthounds, guardians, toys, herders, bulldogs, terriers, gundogs, scent hounds, “natural,” and “world dogs”) help you predict instincts and needs.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Meet your Dog Book by Kim BropheyEpisode 11: Adopt or ShopWhere Tails Meet Heart StoriesWhat About Bunny3 Snouts and their aboutsDoug The PugCrusoe The DachshundDino and RubyJason Heigl FoundationFather JoãoKelbie and NixieMagie and GusMeemaw - 1510 FoundationElko The Travel DogLitter LogiePaw-LebritiesHaya_LondonEroc DogCricket the gremlina...

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.Takeaways:Choosing the right dog walker is crucial for your dog's well-being.Understand your dog's needs before selecting a walker.Look for reliability, experience, and communication in a dog walker.Trial walks can help determine if a walker is a good fit.Trust your dog's instincts when meeting a new walker.Communication with your dog walker is essential for your dog's happiness.Be aware of red flags when vetting potential walkers.Your dog is part of your family; choose wisely.Building a relationship with your dog walker is important.A good dog walker can provide peace of mind for pet parents.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Fetch or Forget: Snooza Cotton Canvas FutonWhere Tails meet hearts - Litter LogiePaw-lebrity of the Week -Winston and Cooper aka the Doods, Dood WinstonTimestamps 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

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

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.Takeaways:Dr. Sarah Ramsey has nearly 30 years of experience in veterinary medicine.Understanding veterinary specializations helps in choosing the right care for pets.Emergency kits for pets should include saline, gauze, and vet wrap.Basic first aid skills can save a pet's life in emergencies.Knowing when to seek veterinary care is crucial for pet health.Routine veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection of health issues.Vaccination schedules may vary by region and should be discussed with a vet.Pet owners should be aware of their pets' specific health needs and risks.Regular blood work can help monitor chronic conditions in pets.Creating a customized emergency kit for pets is important for preparedness.Emergency Kits:At-Home Emergency KitGloves (latex or nitrile) – to keep your hands clean and safe.Saline pods/pipettes – safe for cleaning wounds and eyes.Sterile gauze – apply pressure and stop bleeding.Vet wrap (self-adhering bandage) – to secure gauze/dressings (sticks to itself, not fur).Muzzle or strong tape for a makeshift muzzle – for safety if your pet is in pain.Tick hook – safe removal of ticks without leaving parts behind.Tweezers – for removing thorns, splinters, or foreign bodies.Cotton buds – useful for cleaning small areas, like removing grass seeds.Styptic powder - to stop bleeding from nails, ears, or tails.Elizabethan collar (cone) – to prevent licking/ingesting toxins or cleaning wounds.On-the-Go / Walk & Travel Kit (Mini Version)Saline pod – for quick wound or eye cleaning.Sterile gauze – for immediate coverage of cuts or stings.Vet wrap – to hold gauze in place.Muzzle tape – lightweight safety option.Antihistamines (chlorphenamine / “Piriton”) – especially if your dog has known allergies (4mg tablet for medium/large dogs, ½ tablet for small...

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.Takeaways:Have you ever wondered who would care for your pup?Choosing a godparent for your pup is responsible.Life happens, accidents happen, illness happens.We can still be there for them.Does this person have the time, energy, and finances?Look for someone who truly loves dogs.Make it a joyful moment.This is not about being morbid.You're giving your pup the gift of security.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Fetch or Forget - FURminatorWhere Tails meet hearts - Elko's journey on Away on EarthPaw-lebrity of the Week - Billy the KidTimestamps 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

In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska Nell speaks with Yvonne Senden, the founder of Doggie Adventures, about her journey in creating a dog-friendly community in the UAE. They discuss the challenges of dog ownership in the region, the importance of public etiquette, and the exciting initiatives like Leash Explorer and WoofStock that promote responsible pet ownership and community engagement. Yvonne shares her insights on how to make the UAE more dog-friendly and the responsibilities that come with being a dog owner.Where can you find Yvonne?Doggie Adventures (Website, Instagram, Youtube)Leash Explorer (Website, Instagram)WoofStock (Website, Instagram)Takeaways:Doggie Adventures was founded to create a better life for dogs in the UAE.Public etiquette is crucial for responsible dog ownership.Leash Explorer offers exciting adventures for dogs and their owners.WoofStock is a festival dedicated to dogs and their well-being.Community engagement is key to making the UAE more dog-friendly.Dog owners must respect public spaces and other people's comfort.Education about dog behavior is essential for both owners and the community.Creating a directory of dog-friendly places helps pet owners navigate the UAE.Yvonne emphasizes the importance of responsible pet ownership.Future initiatives aim to enhance the dog-friendly community in the UAE.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

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.Takeaways:Choosing the right vet is crucial for your dog's health.Research and recommendations are key in finding a vet.Consider your dog's specific needs when selecting a vet.Location and accessibility can impact your choice of vet.Vet care can be expensive; know the costs upfront.Emergency preparedness is vital for pet owners.A good vet should communicate clearly and listen to concerns.Trust and partnership with your vet are essential.Always ask for estimates on veterinary services.Your dog relies on you to be their voice. 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

In this episode of Tales and Tones, host Mariska Nall 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.Takeaways:Adoption is a personal journey and should be approached with empathy.Dogs are a long-term commitment, not a temporary decision.Shelters often face overcrowding, leading to difficult choices for animals.Adopting a dog can save a life and provide a second chance.Adoption fees can vary, and sometimes adopting can be more cost-effective.Some adopted dogs may come with trauma and require patience.Reputable breeders prioritize health and ethics over profit.Puppy mills often operate under cruel conditions, treating dogs poorly.Choosing the right dog involves matching energy levels and lifestyle needs.Regardless of the choice, responsible pet ownership is crucial.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:How dogs are assisting with scientific research with Kayla FrattHow to Make Your Pet Adoption Application Stand OutRolls and UnderbitesThe Kevin and Kayla ShowKevin'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

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.Takeaways:Caring for pets can be overwhelming at times.Sustainable pet products are often hard to find.Many pet products are designed for short-term use.The pet industry is growing rapidly, but sustainability is lagging.There is a need for durable and eco-friendly pet products.Pet ownership statistics show a significant increase in households with pets.The average lifespan of a dog is much longer than the lifespan of many pet products.Community engagement is essential for building a successful pet brand.The journey of creating a pet company is filled with challenges and learning experiences.It's important to design products that evolve with the needs of pet parents.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Ryan Daniel Moran's Book, 12 Months to $1millionJoin our Newsletter hereJoin our Waiting List hereTimestamps 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

In this episode of Tales 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 you pet to the local pet shop or hardware store if they are dog friendly or a wonderful indoor snuffle too. Takeaways:Indoor enrichment is crucial for dogs during extreme weather.Responsible pet ownership includes cleaning up after your dog.Engaging games can keep dogs happy and stimulated indoors.Enrichment activities should be tailored to each dog's preferences.Rotating puzzle toys helps maintain a dog's interest and challenge.Tug of war is a great way to release energy indoors.Trick training can strengthen the bond between dog and owner.Heartwarming dog stories remind us of the impact pets can have.Finding fun activities is more important than perfection in pet care.Community engagement is vital for responsible pet ownership.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Fetch or Forget, Earth Rated Natural Rubber Treat ToyWhere Tails meet hearts, Kelby & Nixie (That Nepa Newfie)Paw-lebrity of the Week, Some Frenchie Named ApolloTimestamps 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!

In this episode of Tales 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.Takeaways:Barking is a form of communication from your dog.Not every complaint is a personal attack on you.Understanding the reason behind barking can help address complaints.Transparency with neighbors can ease tensions.Assess complaints neutrally before reacting.If a complaint is valid, take proactive steps to resolve it.Document your dog's behavior to track progress.A dog apology basket can help smooth over neighbor relations.Stay calm and grounded when addressing complaints.Your response to complaints is crucial in maintaining community harmony.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Where Tails meet hearts, Padre João PauloPaw-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)

In this episode of Tales and Tones, host Mariska Nall 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.Takeaways:Dog etiquette is about respect for the community.Leash rules are for the safety of all dogs and people.Cleaning up after your dog is a basic responsibility.Always ask before letting your dog interact with others.Training helps dogs feel safe and confident.Know when it's best to leave your dog at home.Dog-friendly spaces require responsible behavior from owners.Keep your dog's vaccinations and health records up to date.Understanding dog body language can prevent conflicts.Empathy and awareness create better experiences for everyone.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Doggie Adventures UAELeave a review on Podchaser Where Tails meet hearts - JasonHeigl Foundation and Badlands Ranch PetPaw-lebrity of the Week - Dolly PawtonComing 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 - JasonHeigl Foundation and Badlands Ranch Pet[20:14]- Paw-lebrity of the Week - Dolly Pawton

In this episode of Tales 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.Takeaways:Always check if food is safe for dogs.Some human foods can be deadly to dogs.Avoid giving treats without asking the pet parent.Human medications can be fatal to dogs.Mushrooms can be extremely toxic for dogs.Keep cleaning products out of reach of pets.Stay calm in an emergency with your pet.Have a little bit of an emergency plan.Rescue stories remind us of the power of love.Celebrity pets bring joy and entertainment to our lives.Relevant links mentioned in the episode:Download the guideWhere Tails meet hearts - Dino and Ruby video Paw-lebrity of the Week - Pug Lou Lou Pug MosyComing 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