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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.