Bark Road

Bark Road is where you’ll find pet owners mingling over Friday ‘Yappy Hour’ while their friendly pups enjoy a slice of dog pizza and furry felines sip cat sparkling wine.

Located at the base of the West End apartments in West Melbourne, Bark Road is more than a store to pick up pet supplies or get your dog groomed.

With regular meetups, a selection of pre-loved books and relaxed seating at the front of the store, Brent Martin has created a place where pet owners can meet others through the shared love for their furry companions.

But Bark Road didn't sprout overnight. Its beginning traces back to Brent's COVID lockdown side hustle.

“I have always had a passion for dogs, and as a result of owning Penny, my little Jack Russell, I thought there was a gap in the market for high quality experience products for pets.
“So I started an online store selling pet-related products in 2020. I then branched out into market stalls, before taking the leap to this brick-and-mortar location in October 2023.”

Step inside Bark Road, and you'll find shelves stocked with a curated selection of treats and toys that you won't find at your average pet store. The unique products, often made by local producers, are what keep Brent’s customers coming back.

"We want to give pets enriching experiences, not just products," he explains. “For instance, the dog ice cream is one of my best selling products - on a hot day the dogs just love licking the tubs!”

Brent’s also passionate about ensuring that Bark Road focuses on sustainability too.

Eco-friendly practices include offering bulk treats to encourage customers to bring their own containers, while dog fur from grooming is recycled by Sustainable Salons to divert salon waste from landfills.

While Brent dreams of expanding to a bigger store one day, for now, he's content with the joy he brings to pets and their owners alike at this beloved community fixture.

“My vision for Bark Road is that we’re a community hub for pets and their owners.”

"Even if you don't have a pet, Bark Road welcomes you to hang out and soak in the ambiance!"

Words by Joyce Watts
& Photography by Anna Encio