Shalein took her dedication of the betterment of Great Danes beyond breeding and showing when she graduated with a doctorate degree from Colorado State University in veterinary medicine. While in veterinary school she placed a strong emphasis on genetics and reproduction and was awarded three AKC scholarships for her Great Dane genetics research. After graduation, she began practicing small animal medicine with a special interest in canine reproduction. Today, you can find her as part of the staff at Dill Veterinary Hospital in Southern California.