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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
How often should my dog be professionally groomed?
Grooming frequency depends on your dog’s breed, coat type, coat length and condition, skin, lifestyle, and the services they need. Some dogs benefit from more frequent brushing, bathing, or coat maintenance, while others need professional grooming less often. A Central Bark groomer can help recommend a schedule based on your individual dog’s needs to help keep them clean, healthy, and comfortable.
How does Central Bark handle feeding for my dog during the day?
For dogs attending day care, a midday meal is generally not necessary or recommended. Dogs receive treats and Rest Period Enrichments throughout the day at no additional charge. However, if your dog needs to follow a specific feeding schedule, such as eating three meals a day, our team can accommodate those needs. For boarding stays, dogs are fed according to the instructions provided by their pet parents. Be sure to share any feeding requirements, allergies, medications, or other special care needs with your local Central Bark team.
My dog gets nervous at the groomer. Can you still groom them?
Yes, we can groom and bathe your nervous dog. Our groomer gives your dog extra time to
settle, takes breaks as required, and works at the pace your dog is ready for. Contact us for
more information on how we ensure safety and comfort for nervous dogs.
What is the difference between dog day care and a dog walker or staying home alone?
Dog day care provides a structured environment where dogs can receive supervised social experiences, enrichment, activity, learning, and rest throughout the day. A dog walker typically provides a shorter period of exercise and individual attention, while staying home offers a quieter environment with more time alone. The best choice depends on your dog’s personality, routine, health, and individual needs.
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.