Hi there, I’m Joan. 🐾
I’m a dog mom, a blogger, and a lifelong lover of animals — and this little corner of the internet exists almost entirely because of Benji, my pit/lab mix who has strong opinions about treats, zero patience for squirrels, and an uncanny ability to make any bad day better.
By day, I run Core Wise Strategies, my own consulting business focused on HR and business operations. It keeps me busy — which makes Benji’s daily insistence on walks, snacks, and couch time feel less like a distraction and more like a necessity.
Joan of Bark is where I come to write about the other half of my life. The dog half.
My background with animals runs deep. I’ve earned grooming and obedience certifications, studied clinical pet nutrition, owned a pet sitting business, and even ran a small dog bakery. Animals — dogs, cats, horses — have been a constant source of peace and companionship for as long as I can remember. From Smoky, the old German Shepherd next door when I was growing up, to Jigs, my aunt’s Boston Terrier, there has never been a chapter of my life that didn’t involve a dog in some form.
I’m also a cook, a baker, and someone who genuinely believes in the healing power of food — for people and for dogs. Nutrition, natural remedies, and alternative healthcare have been personal passions for years, and Benji has become my most enthusiastic taste tester.
This blog is where all of that comes together. You’ll find honest product reviews (Benji-tested, Joan-approved), natural health tips, recipes, and the occasional story from our life that felt too good not to share.
I’m glad you’re here. Pull up a seat — Benji might climb into your lap, but that’s just how he says hello.
— Joan
