About DogNerdly

"DogNerdly brings together experts and pet lovers alike to share their experiences and improve the lives of pets through our core mission of Pet Empowerment."

Joseph Schifano

Founder & Dog Nerd
About DogNerdly & Pet Empowerment

Welcome to DogNerdly, where we're on a mission to turn you into the ultimate Dog Nerd! Our blog is like a treasure trove of doggy knowledge, all backed by the science of how canine brains tick. No fluff here, just expert insights from pet pros who know their stuff.

We're all about Pet Empowerment, giving you the lowdown on what makes your furry friend wag their tail with joy. Dive into our playful posts where we decode the secrets of your dog's behavior, spill the beans on effective training tricks, and tackle those common canine conundrums.

But wait, there's more! Join our Dog Nerd community where we share stories, swap tips, and connect with fellow dog enthusiasts who, just like you, are proudly wearing the Dog Nerd badge.

What is Pet Empowerment?

Pet Empowerment focuses on the enrichment of animals to promote a healthier human-pet bond. Empowered Pets are confident, independent, and have the ability to make their own choices.

Practicing Pet Empowerment means understanding the desires and motivations of your pet. For a human and their pet to live an empowered lifestyle (a "Dog Nerd Lifestyle"), both must work to improve communication and strive to seek a balance between the needs of the human and the needs of the pet.

Smiling Dog and Cat

Pet Empowerment Pledge

I pledge to uphold the following principles in my interactions with pets, recognizing the responsibility and privilege that comes with caring for our four-legged companions:

  • Treat Pets with Respect

    I vow to treat pets with the utmost respect, recognizing the unique and profound bond between humans and animals. I will foster a relationship built on trust, love, and understanding.

  • Promote Confidence and Independence

    I am dedicated to nurturing the confidence and independence of pets. I will encourage their natural behaviors, providing opportunities for exploration, play, and self-expression.

  • Give Pets a Choice

    I promise to respect the autonomy of pets whenever possible, allowing them choices within the boundaries of safety. I understand the importance of empowering pets and fostering a sense of control in their environment.

  • Practice Safe Handling

    I commit to handling pets with care, ensuring their safety and well-being in all situations. I will educate myself on proper handling techniques to prevent harm or stress to the animals.

  • Consider a Pet's Mental, Physical, And Emotional Needs

    I commit to understanding and meeting the holistic needs of pets, addressing their mental, physical, and emotional well-being. I will strive to create an environment that promotes a happy and fulfilling life for them.

  • Prevent and Minimize Fear, Anxiety, And Stress

    I will actively work to identify and alleviate sources of fear, anxiety, and stress in pets. Through positive reinforcement and a calming environment, I aim to create a sense of security for the animals in my care.

  • Provide the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare

    I will ensure that pets enjoy the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare – freedom from hunger and thirst, freedom from discomfort, freedom from pain, injury, or disease, freedom to express normal behavior, and freedom from fear and distress.

  • Report Animal Abuse and Neglect

    I solemnly commit to being a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. If I witness or suspect any form of animal abuse or neglect, I will promptly report it to the appropriate authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the animal.

  • Have Patience and Unconditional Love

    I pledge to approach pet care with patience, understanding that each pet is unique and may require time to adjust. I will offer unconditional love and support, recognizing the role of patience in building a strong bond.

  • Promote Confidence and Independence

    I am dedicated to nurturing the confidence and independence of pets. I will encourage their natural behaviors, providing opportunities for exploration, play, and self-expression.

  • Give Pets a Choice

    I promise to respect the autonomy of pets whenever possible, allowing them choices within the boundaries of safety. I understand the importance of empowering pets and fostering a sense of control in their environment.

  • Provide the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare

    I will ensure that pets enjoy the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare – freedom from hunger and thirst, freedom from discomfort, freedom from pain, injury, or disease, freedom to express normal behavior, and freedom from fear and distress.

  • Practice Safe Handling

    I commit to handling pets with care, ensuring their safety and well-being in all situations. I will educate myself on proper handling techniques to prevent harm or stress to the animals.

  • Consider A Pet's Mental, Physical, And Emotional Needs

    I commit to understanding and meeting the holistic needs of pets, addressing their mental, physical, and emotional well-being. I will strive to create an environment that promotes a happy and fulfilling life for them.

  • Minimize Fear, Anxiety, and Stress

    I will actively work to identify and alleviate sources of fear, anxiety, and stress in pets. Through positive reinforcement and a calming environment, I aim to create a sense of security for the animals in my care.

  • Treat Pets with Respect

    I vow to treat pets with the utmost respect, recognizing the unique and profound bond between humans and animals. I will foster a relationship built on trust, love, and understanding.

  • Report Animal Abuse and Neglect

    I solemnly commit to being a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. If I witness or suspect any form of animal abuse or neglect, I will promptly report it to the appropriate authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the animal.

  • Have Patience and Unconditional Love

    I pledge to approach pet care with patience, understanding that each pet is unique and may require time to adjust. I will offer unconditional love and support, recognizing the role of patience in building a strong bond.

In taking this pledge, I vow to be a responsible and compassionate caretaker, championing the rights and welfare of pets in my care and advocating for their well-being in the broader community.

Our Dog Nerds

The following are pet experts and dog nerds who are passionate about improving the lives of pets. Click on any of our nerds to learn more about their background and expertise. 

Joseph Schifano Founder of DogNerdly

Joseph Schifano

Founder/Editor/Writer

Full Bio
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Your Name Here

Dog Nerd/Writer

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Kaitlin Waite Dog Trainer Headshot

Kaitlin Waite

Dog Trainer/Writer

Full Bio

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