Central Bark Danbury Brings Enrichment-Focused Dog Daycare To Local Pet Parents

DANBURY, CT — For many pet parents, leaving their dogs alone while at work or away on vacation can be stressful. Carol Martin, owner of Central Bark in Danbury, says her new business aims to change that by offering an enrichment-based doggy daycare that keeps canines safe, socialized and happy.

Central Bark, part of a national franchise, officially opened its Danbury location at 55 Kenosia Avenue on June 26. The facility provides daycare, overnight boarding, grooming, and pet merchandise, with training classes planned in the future. Martin said the early weeks have been promising, though she is working to grow awareness.

“There’s a big misconception with what doggie daycare really is,” Martin said. “It’s not just dropping your dog off so they can nap on someone else’s couch. We focus on small group play with safety in mind and structured enrichment.”

At Central Bark, dogs are divided into groups by size, age, energy level and play style. Large dog groups are capped at 12 per enrichment specialist, while smaller dogs are limited to 15. Staff work on name recall, leash manners, and controlled socialization to help dogs develop better behavior at home.

Owners often notice improvements, Martin said, such as calmer temperaments and stronger responsiveness. “We’re constantly working with them at every door, every playgroup. Parents do acknowledge a difference.”

Daycare runs on a membership model, with prices ranging from $43 to $46 per day depending on frequency. Boarding is available at $70 per night for daycare members and $80 for non-members, with some dogs staying for weeks while owners travel.

Behavior assessments are part of the program, extending beyond the first visit. “Some dogs need coaxing through the first few days, while others run in by visit two,” Martin explained. “We take time to understand each dog’s personality and play preferences.”

Martin emphasizes rest as much as activity. “Dogs are no different than toddlers,” she said. “Too much stimulation leads to stress or anxiety. That’s why we balance play with quiet time.”

The Danbury location is part of a fast-growing industry. According to Grand View Research, the U.S. pet daycare and lodging market was valued at more than $1.8 billion in 2025, forecast to grow to $2.85 billion by 2030, and is projected to keep expanding as pet ownership climbs and spending on pets rises. The American Pet Products Association reports that nearly 67 percent of U.S. households own a pet, and Americans spent over $136 billion on their animals in 2022.

In Danbury, Martin said the demand is clear. While new puppy adoptions have slowed since the pandemic, families are still turning to breeders and rescues for companions, leaving many with busy dogs who need structured care. She sees Central Bark as filling a community need for safe, reliable pet services.

The facility also has a focus on prevention. Staff monitor introductions carefully, pair dogs thoughtfully, and avoid potential conflicts before they happen. If two dogs don’t get along, Martin said, “they simply won’t be in the same play group again.”