BarkYard n’ Brews: A Unique Dog Park Experience in Fort Lauderdale
For dog lovers in Fort Lauderdale, BarkYard n’ Brews offers a one-of-a-kind experience where your furry friends can enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with fun and relaxation. This innovative dog park and beer garden integrates playtime for pets with leisure for their owners, creating a space that caters specifically to the needs of both.
A Novel Concept
Co-founder Russell Knutson shares how the idea came to fruition: “We’ve taken a couple of cues from major parties across the United States and one day we landed on a human foam party and like ‘Can we do this for the animals?’ And come to find out, long and behold, we can.” This playful spirit is evident in the park’s signature foam parties, where pet-friendly foam fills the air, allowing dogs to romp and play in a safe environment.
The Foam Party Experience
The foam at BarkYard n’ Brews is not just any foam; it is environmentally safe, pet-safe, and human-safe. Guests can expect exhilarating foam parties designed specifically for canines, complete with a DJ and various dog-oriented vendors offering treats and accessories.
What to Expect
- Foam cannon providing safe bubbles for dogs.
- On-site DJ creating an upbeat atmosphere.
- Vendors offering dog treats, leashes, and other pet products.
A Unique Dog Park and Social Space
BarkYard n’ Brews claims the title of being the first dog park and beer garden in Broward County and Miami-Dade. The focus at BarkYard is to encourage dog-to-dog interaction, intentionally omitting toys from the park to promote natural socialization among the pets.
Membership and Safety
The park operates on a membership basis, requiring all dogs to be registered and vaccinated before entering. “So, we are a private dog park,” explains Knutson. This structure not only ensures the safety of the dogs but also enhances their social experience.
On-Site Staff for Safety and Training
To maintain a harmonious environment, BarkYard employs “wooferees” who are trained to assist with dog interactions and to provide positive reinforcement. Russell Knutson emphasizes the importance of these roles, stating: “Our wooferees are in the park to help maintain order in the park. They’ll help interact with the dogs, they give them positive reinforcement training.”
Relaxation for Owners
While pets engage in fun activities, their owners can enjoy a selection of craft beers and wines, creating an atmosphere of relaxation away from the stresses of everyday life. Knutson notes, “So a beer or a wine that helps you relax as well and so you have a different dog here than you do bringing your dog to a dog park.”
Meet the Park’s Royalty
The unofficial mascot of BarkYard n’ Brews is Mac, who has become a beloved figure among regular visitors. His popularity exemplifies the welcoming community that the park fosters.
Visit BarkYard n’ Brews
Experience the joy of play for your pets and relaxation for yourself at BarkYard n’ Brews, located at:
817 NW First Street,Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
For further information, visit BarkYard n’ Brews website.