This Film Could Change Everything—But We're Racing Against Time
We have 8 months.
Tom Lonsdale has spent 30 years documenting what the pet food industry doesn't want you to see. Clinical records from thousands of cases. Suppressed research. Whistleblower testimonies. Decades of evidence proving systematic harm.
But evidence means nothing if key interviews aren't captured before:
• Leading veterinary researchers retire
• International whistleblowers lose legal protection
• Critical expert testimonies become unavailable
• Documentary proof disappears
We must complete international filming by January 2026. After that, this window closes—and with it, the chance to document truth that could transform how millions feed their animals.
Production has been ongoing since 2018. Now we need $250,000 to finish what we started—before the evidence is lost.
Dr. Tom Lonsdale - Veterinary Surgeon & Whistleblower • Dr. Ian Billinghurst -Veterinary Surgeon & BARF Diet Pioneer • Dr. Richard Malik - Professor, Sydney University • Dr. Karen Becker (USA) - Holistic Veterinarian • Dr. Jean Hofve (USA)- Holistic Veterinarian & Author • Dr. Wouter Hendriks (Netherlands)-Professor of Animal Nutrition, Wageningen University • Rodney Habib (Canada) - Founder, Planet Paws • Jared & Lisa Karran (Australia)- Founders, Kangala Wildlife Rescue
They've seen Tom's 30-year archive of evidence. They know what's at stake. Whistleblower veterinarians from UK, USA, and Canada are joining them—some cannot be named yet for legal protection
Most pet owners trust their veterinarian's nutritional advice completely. Why wouldn't you? They're the experts.
But here's what most vets don't know themselves: The majority of veterinary nutrition education is funded by the pet food companies selling the products.
Tom Lonsdale spent the first 20 years of his career following conventional wisdom. Feed from cans and bags. It's convenient, "complete and balanced," scientifically formulated.
Then he started looking at his patients' mouths.
Epidemic periodontal disease. Systematic tooth extractions. Chronic illness. Animals suffering in silence because they trusted us to feed them properly.
The numbers tell the story:
Millions unknowingly feeding harmful diets
Built on processed pet food
Have periodontal disease
90% reduction in dental extractions
This documentary combines the investigative rigor of 'Dark Waters' with the personal stakes of one veterinarian who refused to stay silent.
Following Tom's 30-year investigation, this is the first film to expose industry influence from inside the veterinary profession—with unprecedented access to clinical documentation, suppressed research, and decades of evidence.
Your support brings this truth to pet owners who have been kept in the dark for decades.
Complete Transparency: Where Your Money Goes
Total Film Budget
15% Development & Pre-Production
35% Production & Filming
12% Archival Licensing & Legal
25% Post-Production & Sound
8% Distribution & Marketing
5% Contingency
We have government grants, tax rebates, and production investment securing $1,550,000.
We need $250,000 to complete:
International filming (UK, USA, Netherlands) - $85,000
Key whistleblower vet interviews - $45,000
Archival licensing & legal clearances - $50,000
Post-production & sound mixing - $45,000
Impact campaign materials - $25,000
Deadline: January 2026
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Your contribution doesn't just fund a film. It captures evidence before key experts retire, before whistleblowers lose protection, before the window closes on documenting systematic harm affecting billions of animals.
Two Ways to Support This Investigation
Every dollar —whether you choose rewards or tax benefits —brings this evidence closer to millions of pet owners who have the right to know
Get Tom's pet care guide, exclusive behind-the-scenes access, limited edition poster, and more.
Perfect for: Pet owners who want to join the movement
100% goes to production—No platform fees. No third-party commissions. Every dollar funds the investigation.
Includes:
✓ Tom Lonsdale's comprehensive pet care guide (PDF)
✓ Exclusive production updates
✓ Limited edition Mad Vet merchandise ✓ Your name in film credits (optional)
✓ Early screening access
CHOOSE YOUR TIER
For Australian taxpayers. Full tax deduction through Documentary Australia Foundation.
Perfect for: Maximizing your financial benefit while funding investigative journalism
Fully tax-deductible for Australian residents. Documentary Australia retains 5% for administration.
Includes:
✓ Immediate official tax receipt
✓ Listed as supporter (or remain anonymous)
✓ General backer updates
✓ Priority notification of screenings
CLAIM TAX BENEFIT
Support the investigation AND get exclusive access. 100% of your contribution goes directly to production.
What You Get:
Every backer receives:
• Digital film copy upon release
• Dr. Tom Lonsdale's comprehensive pet care guide (PDF)
• Behind-the-scenes production updates
• Early access to educational resources
Higher tiers unlock:
• Limited edition "Mad Vet" merchandise
• Your name in film credits
• Exclusive screening invitations
• VIP premiere access
100% Funds the Film - No platform fees. No commissions. Every dollar goes to capturing evidence before the January 2026 deadline.
Become Part of the Movement - You're not just backing a film. You're joining thousands of pet owners, vets, and advocates challenging a $130 billion industry.
Get Tom's Expertise - His pet care guide contains 30 years of clinical wisdom the industry doesn't want you to have.
Important Details:
✓ Delivery: Digital rewards within 48 hours. Physical items after production wraps. Film access upon official release.
✗ Tax Deduction: This option doesn't qualify for tax deduction, but gives you exclusive rewards. Australian taxpayers wanting tax benefits should choose Option 2.
SEE REWARD TIERS BELOW
[readmore]
$25
Supporter "Thank You for Standing with Tom"
Digital thank you card from the team
Weekly production updates
Access to exclusive behind-the-scenes content
Perfect for: Pet owners who want to help expose the truth
$50
Advocate "Arm Yourself with Knowledge"
Everything above, plus:
Dr. Tom Lonsdale's comprehensive pet care guide (PDF) - 30 years of clinical wisdom
Limited edition "Mad Vet" digital poster
Perfect for: Pet owners ready to change how they feed their animals
$100
Champion "Watch the Evidence Firsthand"
Everything above, plus:
Digital film download upon release
Watch before it hits streaming platforms
Perfect for: Supporters who want priority access to the investigation
$250
Guardian "Join the Premiere"
Everything above, plus:
Exclusive invitation to a local screening event
Meet other advocates in your community
Perfect for: Those who want to be part of the movement in person
$500+
Hero "Leave Your Mark on History"
Everything above, plus:
Your name in the film credits
VIP access to special events
Personal thank you from Tom Lonsdale
Perfect for: Major supporters helping change pet health worldwide
$2,500
IMPACT PATRON
- Everything in $500 tier
- Producer credit tier (higher placement in credits)
- Private screening link for you + up to 10 guests (virtual private screening)
- Invitation to impact campaign strategy sessions
- Recognition as major supporter on website and promotional materials
What Your $2,500 Funds:
- Complete post-production for one film segment
- Critical archival footage licensing
- Expert interview travel expenses
Perfect for: Veterinary professionals, advocates, and major donors who want significant impact recognition
$10,000
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
- Everything in $2,500 tier
- Executive Producer credit (top-tier credit placement)
- Digital copy of one of Tom Lonsdale's published books (signed digital edition with personal inscription)
- Monthly production updates via video call with Director Danny Lachevre
- Input on impact campaign strategy and community screening locations
- First access to all clinical documentation and archival materials featured in the film (exclusive documentary research collection)
- Recognition at all premiere events and press materials
What Your $10,000 Funds:
- One complete international filming trip with key veterinary experts
- Legal documentation and court proceeding coverage
- Whistleblower protection and interview coordination
Perfect for: Major philanthropists, veterinary organizations, animal welfare foundations, and executive-level supporters
For Australian taxpayers. Support investigative journalism while maximizing your tax benefit.
Why Choose Tax-Deductible:
Full Tax Deduction - Your entire donation is tax-deductible for Australian residents. Documentary Australia Foundation is a registered DGR charity with the Australian Tax Office.
Immediate Receipt - Official tax receipt issued instantly via email for your tax return.
Support Public Interest Journalism - Your donation funds investigative documentary that exposes corporate influence affecting millions of animals worldwide.
How It Works:
Documentary Australia Foundation is the trusted nonprofit partner for documentary filmmakers creating public interest journalism. Your donation:
Goes directly to production (95% to film, 5% to Documentary Australia admin)
Qualifies for full tax deduction
Supports evidence-based investigative reporting
Cannot include rewards (per Australian tax law)
Allows you to be credited as a supporter (this is permitted)
Visit our Documentary Australia page to make a tax-deductible donation → https://documentaryaustralia.com.au/project/rmb/
What Your Donation Funds:
Your tax-deductible contribution completes:
• International filming - Capturing key veterinary experts and whistleblowers in UK, USA, and Netherlands before they retire
• Legal documentation - Archival licensing and legal clearances for sensitive investigative material
• Post-production - Professional editing, sound design, and finishing that meets international festival standards
• Global distribution - Cinema screenings, streaming platforms, and impact campaign materials
• Educational resources - Materials for veterinary conferences and pet owner education
Eligibility:
✓ Australian taxpayers (individuals or corporations)
✓ Anyone who wants to support investigative journalism
✓ Donors who want maximum tax benefit
✗ Cannot financially gain from the project
✗ Cannot be family member of filmmakers
✗ Cannot be filmmaker on the project
Questions? Email themadvet@fan-force.com for corporate partnerships or tax-deductible questions.
SEE SUGGESTED CONTRIBUTION LEVELS BELOW
Every Contribution Matters—Here's the Impact[readmore]
$50
Funds 1 hour of international expert interview filming
$100
Covers legal clearance for sensitive whistleblower testimony
$250
Completes one day of archival footage licensing
$500
Funds round-trip travel for UK veterinary whistleblower interview
$1,000+
Finances complete post-production for one film segment
What the pet food industry doesn't want you to see
Tom's 30-year investigation exposes six systematic ways processed pet food harms animals—and how the industry keeps it hidden.
Processed pet food causes epidemic periodontal disease—leading to heart, kidney, and liver failure that kills companion animals years before their time
Major pet food companies fund veterinary nutrition education, creating conflicts of interest that suppress natural feeding alternatives.
Industry marketing hides systematic harm behind "scientifically formulated" claims that aren't backed by long-term clinical evidence.
Tom saves extracted teeth from every procedure—jars full of physical proof that processed diets destroy dental health.
How the industry captured veterinary education, professional associations, and nutrition guidelines to protect their profits.
Dramatic health transformations when animals switch to natural feeding—90% reduction in dental disease, fewer chronic illnesses, longer lives.
This Is More Than a Documentary
This is evidence.
This is justice.
This is about the billions of animals who trusted us to feed them properly—and the industry that chose profit over their health.
But this is also about what happens when suppressed evidence finally reaches the light:
400 cinema screenings across Australia and New Zealand. Pet owners watching together, conversations starting, communities forming around truth.
International festival circuit. Building momentum at documentary festivals worldwide. Connecting whistleblower vets across continents. Creating a global movement for pet food reform.
Streaming platforms worldwide. Making Tom's evidence accessible to every pet owner who has been kept in the dark for decades.
Impact campaign. Veterinary conference premieres challenging the profession from within. Educational resources empowering pet owners to make informed decisions. Policy reform documentation supporting regulatory change.
Your Legacy. When future generations ask "How did the industry get away with this for so long?" your name will be among those who said: Not anymore.
Your support doesn't just finish a film. It arms millions of pet owners with evidence the industry has suppressed for decades.
You're not a donor.
You're a disruptor
🎬
Have any other questions? Check out the full FAQ below or contact us at themadvetfilm@example.com
Why do you need funding now?
We've been filming since 2018, but major changes are happening now that require urgent action. The film has been unfunded until this moment, operating on passion and commitment alone. We urgently need to complete critical filming in Australia, Europe, and the USA to capture key scientific experts and veterinary specialists while the momentum is building. We must complete filming by January 2026 at the latest to maintain the film's relevance and impact. Your support right now enables us to finish this important story and bring it to audiences worldwide.
What's the production timeline?
2018-2024: Principal photography ongoing (Tom's clinic, veterinary interviews, scientific research)
Now-January 2026: Critical international filming (Australia, Europe, USA - key scientists and veterinary specialists)
December 2025-April 2026: Post-production, sound design, music composition
June 2026: Theatrical release via FanForce (Australia, New Zealand wide, other countries to follow)
How will my donation be used?
Crowdfunding contributions cover critical production costs including:
International filming in Australia, Europe, and the USA
Interviews with key scientists, experts, and veterinary specialists
Equipment and crew for documentary production
Post-production, editing, sound design, and music
Archival research and licensing
Impact campaign and community education resources
Every dollar goes directly into production—FanForce Productions has contributed significant equity and deferred fees to ensure maximum funding reaches the screen.
Is this film independent?
Absolutely. We've deliberately structured financing to maintain complete editorial independence. No pet food companies, veterinary associations, or industry bodies have any involvement or influence over this film's content. Our funding comes from independent sources including Documentary Australia Foundation and public crowdfunding support—ensuring the story remains true to Tom's 30-year mission.
What is your crowdfunding goal?
Our crowdfunding goal is $250,000 to complete production filming in Australia and overseas. This represents approximately 14% of the total $1.8M budget. We have secured a small amount from government grants and tax rebates, plus distribution guarantees and production company investment—but we need this crowdfunding support to film international supporting veterinarian interviews, cover comprehensive documentation, and license critical archival materials while the evidence is active.
Can I donate anonymously?
Yes. When making your donation, you can choose to remain anonymous. Your name will not appear in any public supporter lists or credits unless you explicitly opt in.
Will donations above the goal still be accepted?
Yes! Any funds raised beyond our $250,000 goal will go directly toward:
Extended international filming with additional scientists and veterinary specialists
Enhanced impact campaign including community education programs
Professional translation and subtitling for international distribution
Expanded community screening programs across regional Australia and internationally
Enhanced archival research and licensing
Who is Tom Lonsdale?
Tom Lonsdale is a 72-year-old Australian veterinarian who has spent 30 years documenting the harmful effects of processed pet food on companion animals. Throughout his career, Tom has consistently observed and removed diseased teeth from animals fed processed pet food diets, which is why he has campaigned relentlessly to alert people to the dangers of processed pet food on dental and overall health. His clinical experience led him to advocate for raw meaty bones feeding as a healthier alternative. Tom's work challenges the $130 billion pet food industry and has inspired veterinarians worldwide to reconsider conventional nutritional recommendations.
What is the "cybernetic hypothesis"?
The cybernetic hypothesis, discovered by Tom Lonsdale, demonstrates the systemic link between periodontal disease (caused by processed pet food) and organ failure in dogs and cats. Bacteria from diseased gums enter the bloodstream, causing chronic inflammation in the heart, kidneys, and liver. Tom's clinical evidence shows a 90% reduction in dental disease—and associated organ problems—when animals switch from processed food to raw meaty bones.
How long is the film?
The film will run approximately 90 minutes, standard feature documentary length.
What evidence does Tom have?
Tom has compiled 30 years of documentation including:
Clinical records from thousands of dental procedures showing dramatic health improvements
Industry research documents and veterinary school funding records revealing conflicts of interest
Correspondence with regulatory bodies and professional associations
Peer-reviewed studies on periodontal disease and pet nutrition
Before/after clinical photography and X-rays demonstrating the impact of diet changes
Archives of his own published research and books challenging industry practices
Is this scientifically accurate?
Yes. Every claim in the film is supported by documented evidence, peer-reviewed research, clinical records, and expert testimony. Tom's methods have been replicated by veterinarians worldwide with consistent results. The film includes input from independent veterinary nutritionists, pathologists, and researchers with no ties to the pet food industry.
Will the pet food industry try to stop this film?
By funding this film through completely independent channels, including this public crowdfunding support, we maintain complete control over the content. FanForce's cinema-on-demand model enables communities to support screenings anywhere across the world, completely independent of traditional distribution channels that might be influenced by industry advertising. This maintains the ethos of Tom's 30-year fight for people to recognize the dangers of processed pet food on animals.
How is this different from other pet food documentaries?
This is a powerful character study combined with an in-depth examination of the science behind periodontal disease and the impact of processed pet food. The film also explores how big corporations work to systematically capture industries and those connected to them through government inquiries and in-depth journalistic examinations. This is the first documentary with full inside access to Tom Lonsdale's 30-year archive of research and clinical evidence. Most pet documentaries focus on nutrition debates. The Mad Vet combines personal story, rigorous science, and corporate influence examination to create a comprehensive look at why the pet food industry operates the way it does.
When will the film be released?
We are aiming for an end of Q2 2026 release in Australia and New Zealand wide, with other countries to follow. The film will be distributed through FanForce's cinema-on-demand platform, enabling communities worldwide to host screenings. Festival circuit begins earlier in 2026, with international and streaming release following the theatrical run.
How do I know when the film will release in my country?
Join our newsletter on this page and we will be sending regular updates with screenings all across the world. We're looking for champions to help us spread the word—so let us know if that sounds like you!
When will I receive my rewards?
Digital rewards: A number of these will be delivered immediately where relevant, others will be delivered along the campaign as we create content. You will receive an email with further details of each reward.
Name in credits: This will be confirmed in writing.
Screening invitations: Notified 4-6 weeks before premiere events and FanForce theatrical release.
Limited edition posters: Available for pickup at screening events (locations announced with FanForce schedule).
Cast/crew screening (Sydney): Most likely Q2 2026, but will be confirmed.
Tom's digital book: Delivered within one week of donation.
Are donations refundable?
No. It is important to read the terms and conditions of donation as donations are not refundable and will be put to use immediately. Please consider this carefully before donating.
I donated via Documentary Australia Foundation. Will I get rewards?
No. Tax-deductible donations through Documentary Australia Foundation cannot include rewards (per DGR charity regulations). However, you will receive:
Immediate official tax receipt
Listing as supporter (optional, anonymous if preferred)
Access to general backer updates
Priority notification of public screenings
Can I increase my donation tier later?
Yes! Contact us at themadvetfilm@example.com with your original donation details and we'll help you upgrade to a higher reward tier.
Can international supporters donate?
Absolutely! We welcome international support. However, tax-deductible donations are only available to Australian taxpayers. International supporters should use the "Donate With Perks" option. Note: International shipping may apply to physical rewards.
Is this film anti-veterinarian?
No. Tom Lonsdale IS a veterinarian. This film exposes corporate fraud by pet food manufacturers—not the veterinary profession. Many veterinarians are supporting professionals in this story, breaking ranks to support Tom's evidence. The film examines how pet food companies fund veterinary education and influence the profession, but celebrates vets who prioritize animal welfare over industry pressure.
Should I immediately switch my pet's food after watching?
We advise you to consult with a veterinarian before making dietary changes. We will be providing resources for transitioning to raw feeding safely, and there are many guides to read as well as Tom's books that offer comprehensive guidance on making the switch properly.
Will this create legal trouble for supporters?
No. Supporting a documentary is protected speech. You're funding journalism that exposes matters of public interest. Tom Lonsdale has already faced industry pushback for decades and continues his work within legal bounds. All evidence in the film has been reviewed by legal counsel.
My vet recommends major commercial brands. Are they wrong?
Not necessarily. Most veterinarians genuinely believe they're providing good care based on their education. Many are simply following nutrition guidelines they learned in veterinary school—which is often influenced by pet food company funding. The film examines this systematic issue while respecting that individual vets are trying to help animals. Many veterinarians who learn about Tom's clinical evidence become advocates for natural feeding.
What happens after the film is released?
The Mad Vet includes a comprehensive impact campaign:
Community screenings for pet owners, featuring Q&As with raw-feeding veterinarians
Veterinary conference presentations of Tom's clinical evidence
Educational resources for transitioning pets to natural feeding safely
Public awareness campaign about the connection between diet and pet health
Truth Sessions at veterinary schools examining corporate influence on pet nutrition education
Online resources hub with guides, research papers, and Tom's books
How can I get involved beyond donating?
Share the campaign with fellow pet owners
Request a screening in your area via FanForce
Join our mailing list for updates and advocacy opportunities
Share your pet's story if they've suffered from dental disease or organ problems
Talk to your vet about raw feeding (bring Tom's research)
Sign the petition for regulatory investigation (launching with the film)
I have a question not answered here.
Contact us at [contact email] and we'll respond within 24-48 hours.
Can I gift or bulk-purchase tickets?
Yes! Contact [contact email] for:
Corporate sponsorships
Veterinary clinic bulk screenings
Community group bookings (10+)
Media/press inquiries
Join 5,000+ people following this investigation. Get behind-the-scenes updates and exclusive access to Tom's research
FANFORCE TV acknowledges and pays respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should be aware that this page may contain images or names of people who have passed away.