Wisconsin-based Central Bark, a “Whole Dog Care” franchise, is set to open its first metro Detroit location this spring just south of downtown Rochester.
Located at 200 South St., the new facility will offer dogs and their owners dog day care, boarding services, baths, grooming, training, and more. Central Bark’s “Whole Dog Care” program combines care expertise with the latest in canine behavioral science.
Leading Central Bark’s introduction to Michigan is franchise owner and operator, Meredith Mannino. Born and raised in the greater Detroit area, Mannino has experience as an elementary school teacher and says she wants to build a strong community of dog owners with Central Bark.
“Both my father and my grandmother have been successful entrepreneurs in the Detroit area for many years, which has given me an incredible appreciation for the impact a strong business can bring to the community,” says Mannino.
“I saw a need for safe, science-based dog care in my area and knew that Central Bark’s innovative whole dog care approach would be a welcome addition for local pet parents. I couldn’t be more thrilled to bring my commitment and passion for helping dogs to the Central Bark family.”
Central Bark typically features approximately 6,000 -7,000 square feet of indoor space plus more than 2,000 square feet of outdoor play area. Activities include small flexible playgroups, group skills work, rest periods, and personalized one-on-one enrichment sessions.
Enrichment add-ons give pups extra attention and the freedom to use their senses, safely exploring with their instincts as they engage with interactive toys, puzzles, and games.
For more information on Central Bark, visit here. For information on Central Bark franchise opportunities, visit here.
In Related News: Barkside, Detroit’s first-of-its-kind dog park and bar, has announced plans for a second location, set to open this summer at 15640 W. 11 Eleven Mile Road in Southfield.
Barkside Southfield is expected to offer an expanded experience for dogs and their humans, blending community, craft beverages, and safe, year-round fun.
“Our vision for Barkside has always been about more than just a bar or a dog park,” say Cody Williams and David Oh, founders of Barkside. “It’s about creating a place where dog lovers and dogs can safely socialize, unwind, and have fun.
“Southfield’s central location makes it the perfect spot to bring Barkside’s unique concept and strong sense of community to even more metro Detroit dog lovers.”
Barkside Southfield will feature 6,000 square feet of indoor, climate-controlled off-leash play space and 7,000 square feet of outdoor space, offering plenty of room for dogs to roam and socialize, no matter the weather.
The outdoor area will be fully fenced and designed with dog-friendly mulch and drainage rock, ensuring safe, clean play — even after a rainstorm. Inside, the massive indoor space will provide a modern, weatherproof playground for dogs to enjoy year-round. It also will be equipped with Wi-Fi and TVs for the humans.
Barkside is a membership-based space designed with safety in mind, the founders say. All dogs must be up to date on their rabies, DHLPP/Da2PP, and Bordetella vaccinations. Dogs also must be at least six months old, and spayed or neutered if they’re one year or older. Owners can easily upload vaccination records through Barkside’s member portal before visiting.
On-site, Barkside employs “rufferees” — trained professionals specializing in canine behavior — who monitor play areas to ensure every bark, wag, and zoomie happens in a safe environment.
“Safety is our top priority,” says Williams. “With strictly enforced vaccination policies and dog professionals onsite monitoring the dogs, we’ve created a space where dogs can thrive and their humans can relax.”
For more information, visit barksidedogbar.com.
