About Central Bark Aurora Fox Valley
Hi, we’re Mike and Beth Carter, proud owners of Central Bark Aurora-Fox Valley, the best dog day care and boarding facility in the Aurora-Naperville area! We’ve lived in Naperville since 2000, raising our three kids (who are now grown) and filling our home with dogs every step of the way. Today, our family includes Lily, a lab-hound mix with a nose that gets her into trouble, and Ellie, our sweet but goofy white boxer.
Dogs have always been at the heart of our lives, and Central Bark is a dream come true for us. After decades in careers that kept us busy but left us longing for something more meaningful, we decided it was time to build a new chapter together. We wanted to do something joyful, community-focused, and—most importantly—dog-centered. Central Bark is the perfect fit, with its Midwest roots, holistic Whole Dog Care philosophy, and genuine “family” feel.
Mike brings strong business skills to our operations, and he’s a lifelong “dog whisperer”—the guy the neighborhood pups can’t resist. Meanwhile, Beth’s marketing experience is helping us spread the word about Central Bark throughout Aurora and Naperville. Together, we’re excited to create a safe, happy place for amazing day care for dogs, overnight boarding, pet grooming, and professional, positive training services. As long-time Naperville residents, we couldn’t be more thrilled to bring this trusted local dog care option to the western suburbs.
At Central Bark Aurora-Fox Valley, dogs get a unique opportunity to play, learn, and thrive, and pet parents can feel confident their fur babies are getting the very best care. We can’t wait to meet you and your pups! Stop by, say hello, and join our Central Bark dog day care membership program—because around here, dogs aren’t just pets; they’re family.
Awards & Achievements
Central Bark® Certified
Enrichment Dog Day Care
The Dog Gurus training
Our Family Photo Album
We normally board our dog at a vet clinic, but we planned a trip last minute during our daughter’s spring break and our boarding facility was booked. Fortunately, Mike had an opening for our almost 4 yr old pittie mix. I brought her in for an assessment and Mike and his staff member left a great impression – they were both so calm and warm. To our surprise, we received daily photos of our dog smiling as she played with the other dogs. We will definitely board our dog at Central Bark again as they were so accommodating with her boarding anxieties, meds and special diet. Thank you guys again for getting us in last minute and for the wonderful care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Positive reward-based techniques help puppies and dogs develop essential life skills and behaviors that will enrich their lives at home and day care. These methods set dogs up to succeed and reward them for performing desired behaviors. Rewards are tailored to the dog’s preferences and can include food treats, time to play with a favorite toy, or verbal praise.
After decades of experience using reward-based training, we know it’s the most humane and effective way of training dogs and addressing unwanted behaviors. It’s the best way to build a loving, trusting bond that enhances your relationship between you and your dog for a lifetime of happiness together.
At Central Bark®, our focus on positive reinforcement has never wavered. We continuously update our skills and policies to stay at the forefront of new advances in behavioral science and positive reinforcement techniques.
Learn more about our training classes.
Visit our Dog Blog for more helpful tips
Absolutely! We strongly encourage all prospective clients to see our facilities firsthand. We believe a tour is the best way to understand what to look for in a dog day care. You can schedule a visit to tour our complete indoor and outdoor play areas and private rest spaces. We want you to feel completely confident and comfortable with our secure environment. You can also explore our facility and get a feel for what a day at Central Bark looks like by viewing the photos and virtual tours on our website.
Central Bark® has plenty of Kongs®, tennis balls and other toys for everyone. The dogs could ask for nothing more!
Yes! We love to celebrate our friends’ special days. You can schedule space in our facility to celebrate important moments in your dog’s life, from playdates to birthdays to Barkmitzvas. You can rent the space or have us plan and run your entire event.
Contact us to schedule your dog’s party!
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.
