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Central Bark Cares
At Central Bark®, it’s our mission to nurture, enrich, and inspire lives. Bringing whole health, happiness, and unconditional love to each dog, family, and community, we serve to create a happier, healthier, more loving, and peaceful world.
That’s why we’re dedicated to supporting community. For over 20 years, the Central Bark franchise system has supported local dog rescue, fostering, and adoption organizations and charities in cities throughout the country. We also provide community education through our Central Bark Bite Prevention School Program and responsible pet care and positive canine development. Central Bark franchise locations are independently owned and operated. As small business owners ourselves, we’re committed to supporting independently owned small local businesses that bring us together and help our community thrive.
“It is in our DNA to give back to the community. Passion, compassion, respect, and integrity are our core values and guiding principles. Being active in our community is part of that.”
Jackie Jordan & Chris Gaba, Co-founders of Barkley Ventures Franchising, LLC. and the Central Bark franchise system
Central Bark in the Community
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
What is a Behavior Assessment and why is it important?
Central Bark’s Behavior Assessment process helps our team get to know your dog and evaluate factors such as comfort with people, social skills and play style with other dogs, response to different environments, and other behaviors relevant to their day care experience. This helps us make thoughtful decisions about how to support your dog’s comfort, safety, and success in the program.
How are staff trained and what behavior management tools do they use in a playgroup?
Enrichment Specialists are trained to identify and interpret dog body language and help dogs practice safe social skills during play periods. They use positive reward-based techniques, including treats and Group Play Skills such as name recall, to reinforce desired behaviors, redirect dogs when needed, and help keep play safe and fun.
How far in advance should I book dog boarding?
Booking as early as possible is recommended, especially for holidays, school breaks, weekends, and other busy travel periods. Availability varies by Central Bark location and by the type of boarding experience your dog needs. If you know your travel dates, contact your local Central Bark early so the team can confirm availability and any enrollment or pre-stay requirements.
Do groomers sedate dogs?
No. Central Bark groomers do not sedate dogs or make decisions about sedative or anti-anxiety medications. If your dog experiences significant stress or anxiety during grooming, talk with your veterinarian about the best approach for your dog and let your Central Bark grooming team know about any medications or special needs before scheduling or arriving for an appointment.
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.