We are a team and this is our family.
The Barking Meter (TBM) is New York City’s premier dog walking service and k9 concierge. We are the team that supports the individualized needs of each TBM dog and their human. Our approach to an urban dog’s life provides them with a sense of calm, confidence, and community.
In Fall of 2006, Kara moved to New York City after her post-university job on Capitol Hill. Soon thereafter, she met fashion designer Phillip Lim and began walking his dog, Oliver, whose adorable personality inspired her to get her own French bulldog, Lucca. Spending afternoons with these two Bullies sparked an interest in entrepreneurship and a career in the dog industry. In September 2007, through the encouragement of her parents, TBM officially hit the streets of New York City with a focus on providing the level of care and compassion that Kara would expect Lucca to receive.
Since the beginning, TBM has partnered with local veterinarians, groomers, trainers and rescues. Through these relationships, the idea of the k9 concierge service began to take shape. In 2011, Kara's brother, Joey, joined her to grow the business into what it is today. While our TBM family continues to expand --- what started in the neighborhood of Chelsea now hits over 25 neighborhoods in Manhattan and Brooklyn -- our mission and values remain the same: to serve as the ultimate k9 advocate.
Kara lives in Boerum Hill with her partner, Kate, and their two special needs dogs: Lucca, a blind senior, and Chewy. Their dogs join TBM pack walks daily and continue to shape Kara's motivation to care for dogs. She has teamed up with local rescues where their family fosters dogs regularly and many friends and TBM staff members volunteer at events. The company culture at TBM is founded on Kara's core belief that community is essential in making a difference in the world.
Our values
Family
With a sister and brother duo at the helm, family is at the very core of tbm. Each dog and human that joins the team is welcomed into our family. We are proud of the community of awesome clients and employees we have assembled.
Teamwork
Being a k9 parent in NYC is a challenge. Our management team understands this, and will do everything we can to work together with each client and handler to ensure your dog thrives as a city dweller. We are more than dog walkers.
Excellence
We believe that the best service comes from happy staff. We are proud to offer our employees a full benefits package, including an unlimited metrocard, phone and sneaker reimbursement, health insurance and a 401(k) with a company match! Plus we love staff happy hours!
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
Kara began working with my French Bulldog when he was 18-months old. Oliver went from acting like a misbehaved puppy to a well-trained Mr. Oliver in a matter of weeks. She is reliable, trustworthy, timely and caring.He spends numerous days and nights with his TBM family. I highly recommend Kara and The Barking Meter.
— Phillip Lim, joined 2007