About Central Bark Fort Lauderdale
Chris Gaba is Co-Founder of Central Bark and owner of Central Bark Fort Lauderdale. Chris has owned and trained dogs since age nine, starting with the family dog Ringo, a liver-spotted Dalmatian. He is a true dog lover and has developed a deep affinity with dogs of every breed. As pioneers in dog day care that passion for dogs has translated into a successful business model. Our commitment to nurturing, enriching and inspiring the lives of both our 4 legged and 2 legged customers through our unique approach of Whole Dog Care continues to position us as a leader in the Pet Services space.
Chris earned a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Georgia where he owned and trained an English Springer Spaniel named Tess. Professionally, he worked in Advertising and Marketing for over 12 years for international communications companies such as Aydlotte & Cartwright, Austin Knight and J. Walter Thompson Specialized Communications.
In that time, he opened and operated many successful branch offices and was responsible for managing national brands, including Humana Healthcare, Sundance Rehabilitation Corp., as well as the $12 million Tenet Healthcare account.
In 1999, Chris decided it was time to hang up the suit and follow his passion. He opened Central Bark Dog Day Care and Training Center, Inc. in Oakland Park, FL and in less than three years the business had grown into one of the most successful new business ventures in Broward County.
In 2003 Chris merged his Company with Jackie Jordan to form Central Bark Doggy Day Care. Today, Central Bark is a nationally recognized Franchise System with 30 stores in 12 States. Currently, we have 5 stores in development to open in 2020.
“Every dog that walks into our facility is instantly a part of our family.”
Chris Gaba, Central Bark Fort Lauderdale Franchise Owner
Awards & Achievements
Central Bark® Certified Enrichment Dog Day Care
Pet CPR Certified
Our Family Photo Album
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Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Our trainers can help your dog learn a variety of essential life skills and behaviors during their one-on-one sessions. These include fundamental commands like sit, stay, down, wait, and leave-it, as well as more specific skills such as calm door and gate etiquette and relaxed loose-leash walking. The training is tailored to help your dog become a well-behaved and confident member of the family.
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
An essential characteristic of a dog groomer is someone who makes you and your dog feel safe and comfortable.
Other things to look for:
- Certifications – Groomers don’t need a license or certification to work. Still, these accreditations are often signs that the groomer has the necessary training and experience to care for your pup.
- Experience with different breeds – Look for a groomer with experience with a variety of breeds and coats and the standard haircut for your dog’s breed.
- Preparedness – A groomer should work with dogs of all ages and levels of experience with grooming. They should aim to help each dog feel as comfortable as possible with the grooming process. Suppose the dog or puppy becomes anxious or uncomfortable. In that case, the groomer should be able to suggest a plan for increasing their comfort over time with the use of a positive reward-based approach.
Make a reservation for your dog’s grooming session
Central Bark Whole Dog Care
Our whole dog care approach in Fort Lauderdale 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.