Blog

While client-driven feature development will remain a priority, our overarching theme for 2026 is Zero-Touch Transactions. BarkPass already streamlines many staff workflows, but there are still moments that require manual intervention. In 2026, we’re focused on eliminating those touchpoints through smart automation, freeing staff to focus on higher-value work and improving the overall customer experience.

How Parks and Recreation leaders can use the "Third Place" concept to combat loneliness

Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of spending time with professionals across a wide spectrum of roles: animal control officers, shelter administrators, city clerks, parks leaders, dog park ambassadors, veterinarians, licensing teams, IT departments, and pet-tech innovators who are pushing progressive change forward. Each offered a unique lens, yet all shared a common goal: creating communities where pets are safe, supported, and welcome.

After 25 years in the animal welfare technology space, as both a user and a product designer, I’ve seen the best and worst of animal shelter software. While I’m not directly involved in shelter technology today, I still have skin in the game. I care deeply for the animal welfare mission, and through my work with BarkPass, I remain part of the broader ecosystem. But first, let’s talk honestly about why full-service shelter software has failed to evolve and what we can do about

The hidden drag of pet licensing. Why clerks and treasurers can't wait for digital transformation.

Pet licensing isn’t just about compliance, it’s about opportunity. Even small improvements in licensing rates could unlock millions of dollars to support shelters, clinics, and community programs. With that level of funding, we could dramatically expand lifesaving capacity and bring us closer to the vision Emily describes: “a world where fewer pets ever enter shelters in the first place.”

BarkPass, the preeminent dog park software management solution, impressed parks and recreation leaders at the NRPA national conference.

At BarkPass, we believe pet licensing and dog park access are more than just transactions, they’re touchpoints that bring communities closer together. Every renewal, every park visit, and every reminder is an opportunity for agencies to strengthen trust, encourage positive pet care, and create a stronger sense of connection between residents and their local government.

Recruiting guru shares expertise on leadership building in pet licensing and dog park management.

When it comes to public sector decision-making, change is often mistaken for risk. The instinct is understandable; government leaders are stewards of taxpayer dollars, and the safest move often seems to be sticking with what’s already in place.

We’re proud to announce that MyBarkPass , the customer portal for BarkPass, now meets ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance...

For decades, pet licensing policies have focused almost exclusively on dogs. This made sense when dogs represented the majority of owned companion animals, and when cats were more likely to roam freely without consistent veterinary care. But times have changed, and our local policies need to change with them.

Six months ago today, I had the incredible opportunity to take the reins of BarkPass, a company already rooted in passion, purpose, and...

You now have the option to configure each pass in BarkPass to automatically pass along credit card and transaction fees to residents at checkout. This means your community maintains the full revenue of each transaction. 

Managing dog park access isn't about exclusion, it's about creating an enhanced experience.

With the right framework, microchip-only licensing can be both efficient and effective for municipalities and pet owners alike. 

Over 90% of US communities have pet licensing ordinances on the books - but with compliance averaging 13% the current systems aren't fetching results. Learn how BarkPass can make you a community hero.

NACA & BarkPass: Working Together to Modernize Pet Licensing & Permitted Dog Parks

We’re excited to announce the launch of two powerful new features in BarkPass: Mail Merge and Mail Labels! While BarkPass is designed to...

As federal funding cuts hit, they will send ripples through every level of government, affecting services that many people don’t...

BarkPass simplifies dog park management by streamlining operations, reducing administrative burdens and improving experiences.

When I was first evaluating BarkPass as a potential business opportunity, one of the key features that truly stood out above anything...

Creating Community Programs Around Dog Parks to Strengthen Neighborhood Bonds

Dog parks are more than just fenced-in spaces—they’re community hubs where pet owners gather, socialize, and bond over their love for...

A New Future for Pet Licensing and BarkPass As the proud new owner of BarkPass, I’m thrilled to share my vision for the future of pet...

Co-authored by Mark Gorman of TAILS & ALES Dog parks are more than just playgrounds for our furry friends to frolic; they are vital...

Today, I’m thrilled to announce I will be taking the helm of BarkPass LLC ( www.barkpass.com ), an innovative software company that...

Over the last few months, I have been able to reach out to, and chat with, so many people in animal welfare with whom I haven’t spoken in...

The Impact of Technology on Mental Health, Especially in Animal Welfare  I had the incredible opportunity to hear Brigid Schulte speak at...

Recently, I had a fantastic opportunity to learn about the surrender diversion programs at both Dallas Animal Services (DAS) and Forth...

As I was looking for the first topic for my new blog, Shelter Animals Count (SAC) released their 2024 midyear report .  Rightly so, the...