About Central Bark Charlotte-Matthews
A Cleveland, Ohio native, Jennifer moved to Charlotte, North Carolina in 2004 after graduating from St. Bonaventure University with a BBA in Marketing. After spending 14 years in the banking industry, Jennifer began to feel the pull toward a more fulfilling and dynamic career—one that didn’t involve spending her days behind a desk.
In 2013, life gave her a new kind of inspiration: a Boxer puppy named Annabelle. Like many pet parents, Jennifer struggled with the guilt of leaving Annabelle home alone all day. After discovering the positive impact doggy daycare had on Annabelle’s happiness—evident in her nub-wagging and “smile” at pickup—Jennifer had an “a-ha” moment. What if she could turn her passion for dogs into a business?
Driven by a desire to do work that brought joy to both pets and people, Jennifer set out on a journey that led her to Central Bark. In August 2020, she proudly opened her own Central Bark location in Charlotte, where she gets to combine her business acumen with her love for dogs—while also bringing her pup to work.
When she’s not at Central Bark, you’ll find Jennifer taking an Orangetheory class, enjoying time with her husband of 10 years, Steve, savoring the occasional glass of wine, or managing her energetic and sassy 1-year-old European Boxer, Mila.
“We welcome you to join our Central Bark family.”
Jennifer, Central Bark Charlotte-Matthews Franchise Owner
Meet The Team
Mallory
Mallory, a Rock Hill, SC native, graduated from Wingate University in May 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Biology. Her passion for animal care and commitment to making a meaningful impact in the industry led her to begin her career at Central Bark that same month as an Enrichment Specialist.
Kirstie
A native of Charlotte, our groomer Kirstie is a lifelong animal lover and advocate with over a decade of experience in animal rescue, fostering, and rehoming. Her deep commitment to animal welfare has shaped both her personal life and professional path.
Awards & Achievements
Central Bark® Certified
Enrichment Dog Day Care
Our Family Photo Album
Frequently Asked Questions
Sleeping in a new or unfamiliar environment can be stressful for some dogs. That’s why we offer sleepovers to dogs already enrolled in our Enrichment Day Care.
Sleepovers at Central Bark® offer your dog a calm, relaxing sleepover in a place they can feel comfortable and loved. Because they’re in a familiar place, they can feel less stressed about being away from home (and so will you). A full day of Doggy Day Care is complimentary with your sleepover, so your dog can play with their friends after a good night’s rest.
Our Stay-n-Play program offers boarding for dogs that have not enrolled in our day care program. Each overnight guest gets a restful night’s sleep, followed by a day of play, exercise, and plenty of TLC from our staff. Stay-n-Play guests sleep and play in their own designated areas.
We are happy to accommodate your dog’s feeding schedule as part of their “Rest Period Enrichments.” Simply bring their food in pre-portioned containers with clear instructions. Our trained staff will ensure your dog receives their meal in a private, quiet space. We are also experienced in handling a variety of specific needs, including day care for dogs with allergies and medication administration, though additional fees may apply.
Nope! We got you covered! Most dogs will not need any bedding for a single day of day care. If your dog is boarding with us, see our Sleepover Guidelines. As far as treats and toys, we have plenty! Please ask about which toy and treat products are available.
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.
