BETHESDA, Md. — Bark Social, a club for dogs, their owners and lovers, has suddenly closed all locations.
The membership-based club opened its first location in Bethesda in 2021. There are five locations, with four being in the DMV area. The most recent one opened just two months ago in Columbia, Maryland. According to their website, they were planning on opening a seventh location in Los Angeles, California, in 2025.
But according to an email sent to customers Thursday, much-needed funding unexpectedly fell through, sending the dog park to bankruptcy.
Customers took to social media to discuss the closure and mourn the store.
“I'm devastated. My dog and I loved going! We were there every single day the first two weeks and 2-3x/week since. It was such a cool spot for her to run around while I hung out,” one person posted in the Columbia, Maryland subreddit.
“Heartbroken by this. Something just feels off about the announcement - a friend who visited today said that nothing was out of the ordinary. They could have at least given members a final day to come in, say goodbye and spend some money to help them cover final expenses,” another Reddit user posted in the Montgomery County subreddit.
This email to their customer base announced the abrupt closure:
To Our Community,
It's never easy to say goodbye. After years of hospitality and being the gathering spot for our dog-loving communities, Bark Social will be closing our doors at the end of business today, Thursday, November 21st.
We know this is abrupt, but as a small start-up, Bark Social relies on investors to fuel its growth. The company was in the middle of a growth round when financing that was expected fell through. To do right by its team members who are the heart and soul of the company, Bark Social has made the tough decision to close its doors today and will enter bankruptcy.
To our community, Bark Social has been more than a dog bar—it's been a home for so many friendships, wagging tails, and unforgettable memories. We are endlessly grateful for the love and support from each of you who made our space special.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of our pack.
With Gratitude,
Bark Social
On the company’s website, a banner says Bark Social is closed until further notice — so they may reopen sometime in the future.
