This site is dedicated to animal lovers around the world, whether you are fond of small animals or large animals, cuddly ones or slithering ones. We are fascinated by animals of every shape and size, from alligators to prairie dogs. We know you will enjoy exploring with us the vast variety of species and breeds. We endeavor to provide valuable information and helpful resources relating to your pets, including product reviews, breed guides, tips and tricks, how-to, and much more. Our goal is to not only lift our readers’ spirits with heartwarming stories and experiences, but also to inform and educate them on the most important topics and issues that pet owners face.
What does it take to be a good pet parent? The number of choices and decisions a pet owner has to face during the course of their pet’s life can feel overwhelming. It seems that health advice, dietary recommendations and training guidelines change rapidly, so it can be difficult to keep up. Supporting our pets actually begins long before we bring them home for the first time.
Research and education play a large role in choosing the right pet to begin with, knowing what breed is best for your family, the right size, and so on. Our lifestyle choices can also play a vital role in our animal’s health and wellbeing. Of course, the most basic physical and emotional needs of our pets are quite simple. A nutritious diet, plenty of physical activity, and lots of love! Beyond those three key ingredients, each animal has its own set of unique emotional and physical needs.
No matter how your beloved animals became part of your family, we are here to help you navigate the ever-changing world of pet care so you can be the best pet parent possible.
WHO WE ARE
My name is Nick, I am the Editor-in-Chief of Ned Hardy. For as long as I can remember I have loved animals, especially dogs, and have been fascinated with their ability to touch people’s lives in so many ways. My first dog was a Cairn Terrier and we grew up together as best friends. I remember those days with fondness and appreciation. It’s true what they say, a boy never forgets his first dog! I met my second dog on my 21th birthday, she being as loyal to me as the first had been. Her unconditional love taught me about loyalty and friendship, and I cherished every moment we spent together.
Besides nurturing my own pets over the years, I have surrounded myself with animals throughout my life, volunteering and participating in various animal wellness causes. Animals are an important part of my life, and I want to inspire those around me to experience the same joys that they have brought to me.
Over the years, I have continued to educate myself on the various aspects of raising and caring for pets. Each new furry family member brings with it a unique list of needs, specific care, and training. I want to share with this global community some of the lessons I have learned that have helped me along the way.
(Theo)
(Mariska)
(Kiki)
OUR TEAM
Ned Hardy is made up of a team of dedicated researchers and writers who are also avid animal enthusiast. Each member of our team brings with them their own unique experience and knowledge base. Their first objective is to bring you interesting and informative articles that will inspire your love of animals and help you strengthen your bond with the pets that share your home.
You will be able to explore a variety of topic-specific articles as well as heartwarming photos and videos of the most adorable pets you’ve ever seen. We want you to feel inspired to nurture your pets and be continually educated as to their care and wellbeing. Even for the most obsessed pet lovers like us, there are always new and interesting facts to learn.
THE HUMAN-ANIMAL CONNECTION
Animals have been known to connect with humans in ways that fellow humans cannot, and we love that about them! Have you ever seen a service dog tirelessly care for its owner, or a kitten cuddled up with a napping toddler? Every pet owner understands the satisfaction of caring for an animal and in turn having that animal care for them. The benefits reach far beyond loyal companionship. Many animals regularly encourage us to get outside in the fresh air and exercise, they teach children responsibility, and instill in us a nurturing temperament.
For some people having an animal by their side is more than just a joy, it is a necessity. They may find that a pet can provide the needed emotional support to carry on meaningful, productive lives, when they would otherwise not be able to do so. These pets are known as emotional support animals.
Medical professionals have seen the benefit and have prescribed emotional support animals to patients with both physical and emotional disabilities. Companion animals are often brought into hospital wards to put a smile on the faces of patients and to lift their spirits. The effects of animals on our emotional and physical wellbeing are undeniable. While we may not completely understand how these animals are able to touch our lives in such profound ways, it is something we have come to rely on.
It is our hope that this site will serve as a helpful and exciting resource in your pet-parent journey.