Look, working with animals isn’t easy. They don’t listen to stage directions, and they’re always sniffing your pockets, and then, as the old adage reminds us, they always upstage you. Only a brave and patient actor would sign up for dog duty, but luckily, Tom Hardy is such a man. And if these photos from the set of Animal Rescue are any indication, he has already overcome major species barriers to form a bond with his canine co-star. It’s hard work, but someone has to hug puppies. Let Tom Hardy teach you how.
Step 1: Introduce yourself to the puppy and present him or her with a gift. Don’t crowd the puppy. Let the puppy come to you.
Step 2: Establish a physical connection to the puppy with a leash. Don’t put it on too tight — this is about mutual respect.
Step 3: Take the puppy to a quiet place so that you can bond privately, without any directors or crew members disturbing you.
Step 4: Pick up the puppy and hug it. Really hug it.
Step 5: Oh hell, give it a kiss while you’re at it.
Step 6: Keep hugging the puppy.
Step 7: Never let go of the puppy. It’s your puppy now.
