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

Our Family Photo Album

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring when boarding my dog?

When your dog is spending the night at Central Bark®, you should make sure all required forms, including proof of vaccination, are uploaded to your online account. You can bring in copies to your scheduled sleepover. Also, bring a collar and leash, food, medication, and any comforts from home (optional).  

See our Sleepover Guidelines

Are there outdoor play areas?

Central Bark® has outdoor facilities complete with swimming pools and cooling systems for the summer.

What should I bring to Doggy Day Care?

Once you have enrolled, we will need a copy of your dog’s vaccination records, which you can upload to your online account or bring with you on your scheduled first day. We also ask that your dog comes in on a regular 6-foot flat leash (no retractable or flexi-leads in the lobby) and a quick-release collar. Not sure what a quick-release collar is? No problem! We’ll be happy to show you on your first day. If your dog usually wears a harness while walking, you’re welcome to bring that as well.

If your dog typically eats a midday meal, you can bring it in an airtight container clearly labeled with your dog’s first and last names. 

Learn more about Enrichment Doggy Day Care.

Is 5 months too old to train a puppy?

Not at all! It’s never too early or too late to begin building positive associations and using reward-based methods to teach your puppy new skills and behaviors.

Establish a training schedule now to help your puppy learn desired behaviors like walking nicely on a leash and basic cues like sit, stay, and loose-leash walking. Practicing these skills at home is critical, but it’s always a good idea to enlist the help of a professional to get a jump start teaching your puppy all the things you want them to know and set them up for success! Central Bark® offers everything you need to help you train your dog, including expert training and classes, so you and your puppy can learn and bond together. 

Learn more about our training classes.

Visit our Dog Blog for more helpful tips
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Read all FAQs

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.