You are being redirected to a third-party website. Any information that you provide to them is subject to the privacy policy and terms of use posted on their website.
Our Story
Our story began in the mid-1990s when Jackie Jordan and I (Chris Gaba) sought to provide a healthy and happy life for our dogs while balancing family and work demands. We loved our dogs and wanted to enrich their lives as much as they enriched ours. We needed a safe environment for our dogs to play, exercise, and socialize. But at that time, these resources just weren’t available.
So together, we created Central Bark®. It was based on one simple idea: Our best friends deserve the best care. We created a place where dogs can get all the love, attention and activity they need to be healthy, happy, and well-rounded members of the family. Our dogs were happier and healthier, our families felt more peaceful and loving, and our communities had a hub for like-minded dog lovers.
Today, Central Bark is one of the nation’s largest networks of day care for dogs and provides one of the most holistic pet care options available. We go beyond a traditional doggy day care with our unique Whole Dog Care philosophy and enrichment focus that combines decades of dog experience with the latest dog behavior science. We offer everything from Enrichment Dog Day Care and boarding to grooming, market, training and more. All with the mission to help you and your best friend enjoy a whole, healthy, and happy life together.
After more than 20 years, many things have evolved, but our mission remains the same: To forever nurture, enrich, and inspire whole health, happiness, and unconditional love for each dog, family, and community we serve.
We welcome you and your dog to join our Central Bark family.
– Jackie Jordan and Chris Gaba
Awards & Achievements
Our Family Photo Album
Kristy M Super friendly and professional. Highly recommended. Our pup had a fabulous first day!
Lynn. A Ellie's recent stayover was the longest thus far, and I felt such a peace knowing that Ellie was in the best of hands!! I was comfortable mostly because I know how much she enjoys her daycare days. She loves it!! I'm so happy that Central Bark West Columbia is in [...]
Katie M. Our sweet Leo absolutely loves his daycare days. The staff is always friendly and have been helpful with any questions I’ve had. We are so happy we found a place that’s safe for our pup when we can’t be with him.
Megan J. Rosie had her first ever Spa Day! She smelled so good and she felt so soft after her bath! I can’t wait for her to go again. Elizabeth did a wonderful job!
Rachel I. Central Bark is by far the best place to take your fur baby. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and love all the pets as their own. Thank you Central Bark!!!!
Alicia L This is the only place we will leave our furbaby when traveling. It is very clean and our furbaby gets so excited when we pull up!
Sheila T. The staff is amazing, and Otto has a good time...he's always smiling in the pictures!
Lynn R. Central Bark staff work with your dog's personality to acclimate them to the environment. Our Maggie is very timid, and they worked with her so that now she plays with the other dogs. She is worn out for the evening and the next day. Thank you, Central Bark!
Jennifer F. This is an amazing place to send your furry friends! Our pup Mahogany (Huggy) gets so excited every time we pull in to the parking lot. He always comes home happy & pooped out! The staff is friendly and just as excited to see Huggy as he is to see [...]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a shy, anxious, senior, or lower-energy dog attend dog day care?
Day care can be a good experience for many different dogs, but the right approach depends on the individual. Central Bark considers factors such as personality, confidence, age, energy level, play style, and comfort in different experiences. Our enrollment and assessment process helps the team determine whether day care is appropriate and how to set each dog up for success.
Do you offer dog parties?
Central Bark locations may offer dog parties and other ways to celebrate special occasions with your pup and their friends. Party options, availability, and what’s included vary by location. Contact your local Central Bark to learn about available celebration options and start planning your dog’s special day.
How does Central Bark keep its facilities clean and safe?
Central Bark takes a proactive approach to maintaining clean, safe environments for the dogs in our care. Our locations are cleaned and disinfected daily using veterinary-grade disinfectants, and dogs attending our services must meet applicable vaccination and health requirements. Our teams also follow established safety practices throughout the day, including supervised play and structured play and rest periods. We encourage pet parents to contact their local Central Bark to ask questions or schedule a tour and see the facility firsthand.
What dog training options does Central Bark offer?
Central Bark offers positive reward-based dog training options designed to help dogs build practical skills, strengthen communication, and learn behaviors that support everyday life. Depending on your Central Bark location, training options may include Training Tutor sessions during day care and boarding, group training classes, and other training programs for puppies and adult dogs. Because training services vary by location, contact your local Central Bark or visit its website to explore available options and find the right training experience for you and your dog.
Central Bark Whole Dog Care
Our Whole Dog Care approach offers a full range of fun and personalized products and services to promote your dog’s physical, mental, and emotional health and happiness throughout their entire life.