Bark Social is a pay per visit dog park in Bethesda at Pike and Rose where humans and dogs can enjoy food, drinks, events, and self-serve dog baths. I took Captain there yesterday because I had to run an errand nearby. It was 85 - the first real day of summer and the artificial grass was hot. I tried sitting out in the sun for a little while to enjoy the warm weather but even with my hat and sun glasses, I knew I wouldn't last long. I was even more worried about Captain, but Bark Social had us covered - literally and figuratively. I loved when the staff came out and spread ice cubes on the turf - probably to cool it and also as a treat for any dogs who love ice cubes. There also was a sprinkler going - and big horse troughs for dogs to cool off in. For the humans, there are drinks for sale - including the frozen Mango margaritas these two were drinking! There is a nifty card system that lets you open a tab and refill your beer cup as frequently as your thirst dictates.
Besides the Adirondack chairs all around the grass, there is a covered area with high top tables and stools. (Those are good for keeping your feet safe from dogs running around!) After twenty minutes in the late afternoon sun, I moved under cover and Captain came with me.
I have taken Captain to the free dog parks around the county but I like going to Bark Social over the free ones. Most important is that there always are several Bark Social employees on the turf keeping an eye on the dogs and stepping in to separate the ones that are getting a little too frisky (or just plain aggressive.) My experience at some of the county parks is that the owners just stand around and watch their dogs misbehave or harass the less assertive dogs.
In the winter, Bark Social turns on the ceiling heaters in the covered area so that you are not miserable on cool days. Probably nothing will keep you warm in the real wintery days - but that's what coats are for!
There are locations in Bethesda, Baltimore, Alexandria and Philadelphia, with two new locations opening in Columbia Maryland and Los Angeles. For any pet loving Realtors in the Los Angeles area (We all know at least one!) Bark Social is worth checking out!
If you are a dog owner in the DC area and want to talk about buying or selling a home, we can meet at Bark Social in Bethesda or Alexandria! Call me at 240-401-5577 or email me at lise@lisehowe.com. I look forward to hearing from you!
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