Meet the Team
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Elizabeth Apelles
Founder
Why do I care?
In early 2026, my daughter said to me, Mom, you have to watch this movie; that movie was Dogspiracy. Seeing the suffering that breeding dogs (both male and female) endure, day in and day out, for their entire lives moved me to found Honey Paws. This is the most secretive and cruel $1B business in the US, and it must stop. We must Protect Man's Best Friend.
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Christa Toole
Strategic Marketing Director
Why do I care?
I care about Honey Paws because I believe businesses and consumers can play a meaningful role in promoting responsible animal welfare. Honey Paws brings together sustainable fundraising, education, and advocacy to support rescue organizations and encourage more ethical treatment of animals.
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Devon Laszewski
Director
Why do I care?
Growing up, my house was filled with animals; birds, bunnies, turtles, dogs, hedgehogs, and more. Many were hurt, abandoned, or even came from pet stores, and I learned that I had the power to help. As I got older, I realized how much suffering is caused by the dog breeding industry. When I learned about that cruelty, I knew I wanted to make a difference, and Honey Paws is the perfect place to do that.
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Sadie
Chief Moral Officer
Why do I care?
As a rescue who was abused as a puppy, I can empathize with dogs who haven't experienced the love and care they deserve. While I was lucky enough to find a family who gave me a second chance, countless dogs are still suffering in puppy mills. I care because every dog deserves the same chance at a safe, happy, and loving life that I was given.
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Joey Littleton
Marketing Intern
Why do I care?
I was raised with the belief that doing good for others is one of the most important things we can do. Before getting involved with Honey Paws, I had no idea how widespread and devastating the puppy mill industry was. Once I learned the reality of what so many dogs endure, I felt compelled to act. As someone with a rescue dog at home, this mission is super important to me.
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Isabella Nissen
Marketing Intern
Why do I care?
Ever since I was a child, I have loved animals and wanted to help them. After watching Dogspiracy and learning about the suffering of breeding dogs, I encouraged my mom to watch it as well. That decision ultimately led to the founding of Honey Paws. Where there's a will there's a way, and we won't let breeding dogs suffer in silence anymore.
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Poppy
Happiness Manager
Why do I care?
I was originally sold through a pet store to someone who wasn’t properly informed about the responsibility of raising a puppy, and after being given up for adoption, I was lucky enough to be rescued by my family. Today, I live a happy life filled with love, proper care, and adventures by the park, which is why I support Honey Paws and its mission to create a brighter future for dogs who come from puppy mills like I did.
