A lot of dog parks can seem pretty run-of-the-mill, particularly around this time of year when pooches might be fewer and farther between, as temperatures cool and daylight is in short supply. However, a new concept, introduced to Montgomery County in Sept. 2020, elevates the entire experience for both dogs and owners. Even for dog lovers without a four-legged friend, watching pups for hours can provide entertainment. Since its opening in Pike and Rose, Bark Social has gained popularity among the local community.
Not only can dogs hone their social skills, but dog owners are also finding that they can relax with friends or make new friends because “Bark Rangers” will monitor and even tidy up when nature calls. “Bark Rangers” get to know each dog and ensure that conflicts between dogs are kept at bay while providing plenty of affection. When the larger dogs get a little too rambunctious for the smaller breeds, there is also a fenced-off area for those who are not ready to get caught up in the “fun.”
Bark Social has created an atmosphere that is part cafe and part beer garden, offering tasty treats for humans and canines alike. Open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekends, Bark Social allows people to stop by in the mornings to grab a cup of joe and banana nut muffin, among other breakfast bites. In the afternoons and evenings, customers can enjoy the lively atmosphere while snacking on anything from pizza to jalapeno popper grilled cheese sandwiches. Moreover, they even have menu options for dogs, such as the dog-friendly “hot chocolate” and the “Pupsicle,” made with simple and all-natural ingredients.
Bark Social also hosts numerous events, such as “Trivia Tuesdays” with food specials and prizes for random knowledge and Monday night “Breed Meetups,” where guests can surround themselves with their favorite breeds. So, if one happens to have a soft spot for basset-hounds, they could check the calendar on the Bark Social website and fulfill a lifelong dream. The organization has even collaborated with local animal shelters, giving dogs the chance to finally get the love they deserve. Bark Social strengthens the community bond and allows people to connect with others through their fluffy companions.
“We’ve had many heartwarming experiences at Bark Social. One that stands out is a couple who first met at [Bark Social] Baltimore. Their dogs hit it off, and so did they! Now, they’re happily engaged, all thanks to their furry friends bringing them together. These stories showcase how Bark Social isn’t just a place for pets but a catalyst for human connections too,” Director of Marketing Chris Rubacha stated.
Despite being a successful business, Bark Social has encountered its fair share of challenges with bringing their unique idea to life. “Initially, finding the right balance between a pet-friendly space and a human-centric social environment was tricky. We overcame this by continuously listening to customer feedback and adapting our services accordingly. Our team’s flexibility and commitment to our vision were key in navigating these challenges,” Rubacha explained.
Customer satisfaction is a priority at Bark Social, helping them build a strong customer base. Through their membership program, which costs forty dollars a month for unlimited visits, they allow pups to frequently see their favorite “Bark Rangers” and biggest two-legged fans.
Bark Social is currently open in three locations: Bethesda, Baltimore and Philadelphia.
However, they plan to expand their business in the future. “Looking ahead, we plan to expand Bark Social to additional locations in the DMV as well as in the West Coast,” Rubacha said. He also added, “Community initiatives remain at the heart of our expansion plans, as we aim to further our impact on pet welfare and local engagement.”
For those looking for a new experience as a local dog park regular, Bark Social is an excellent place to check out.
Written by Chloe Schaffran of Walter Johnson High School
Photo Courtesy of Building Guru