About Central Bark Milwaukee Downtown
Hi, my name is Ray Djokic and I am the new owner of the Grayslake, IL (2021), Milwaukee Downtown (2022), Wauwatosa (2023), Milwaukee Eastside (2023), and Mequon (2024) Central Bark Stores.
I have such a passion for both business and dogs that I always knew one day I would combine both these passions and start this type of business. My background is in franchising with two other concepts (Jimmy John’s and College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving) so naturally it’s the route I wanted to go with when finding a doggy day care.
Upon learning about Central Bark, I knew on day one I wanted to be a part of this system. They exceeded my expectations, and in my opinion separated themselves from any other concept in this industry. After meeting the team and the brains behind this system it only solidified my decision.
My goal is to combine everything I have learned in my past 16 years in franchising from all the great brands I have been a part of to make this place the best place to bring your dogs. I am so excited and can’t wait to meet all of the parents and pets that walk through our doors!
I know if both pets and parents are leaving our location with a smile, our team has done their job.
Cheers!
Ray Djokic, Central Bark Downtown Milwaukee Franchise Owners
Awards & Achievements
Pet Boarding
Dog Day Care/Boarding
Dog Day Care
Dog Day Care
Dog Day Care
Dog Day Care
Dog Day Care
Central Bark® Certified
Enrichment Dog Day Care
Pet CPR Certified
Our Family Photo Album
The staff has always been caring, and thoughtful. Paul loved his time there, and barked enthusiastically with joy each time we arrived. We had complete peace of mind when he was there, as they took care of his as well as if he was their own.
Thanks to all the staff for taking such good care of our Pauly. You all were a very important part of his life!
Frequently Asked Questions
Rest periods can be paired with fun and interactive food toys (like a frozen peanut butter Kong) to create a rest period enrichment activity for your dog.
Not only are rest period enrichments fun and mentally stimulating for your dog, but they also help build positive associations and crating skills. Hence, dogs are calmer, quieter, and more relaxed. For dogs, being comfortable in a crate is a life skill that is incredibly useful for them and their owners.
Did you know? Scientific studies have shown that licking and chewing behaviors (especially those that involve food rewards!) are self-soothing, decrease heart and respiratory rates, and even release dopamine in a dog’s brain.
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 Training Tutor and Enrichment services are available as add-ons to your dog’s day care visit, and while single sessions are available, packages are also offered for your convenience. Please note that prepaid packages are nonrefundable, and all sales are final. We recommend speaking with an associate to determine the best option for your dog’s training needs.
Our top priority is the safety of every dog in our care. Our staff members are not only highly trained but also “fluent in dog speak,” which means they can read canine body language and behavior cues. Our rigorous dog day care safety protocols use a science-based positive reinforcement approach to constantly monitor and manage play. We believe in proactive and preventative care, working to de-escalate potential issues before they start, which is a key part of how dog day care handles disagreements and maintains a secure environment for all dogs.
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.
