Westlake Ace Hardware and KC Pet Project Unleash “Barks & Rec” Doggie Playground

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Dec 3, 2025) – On November 25, Westlake Ace Hardware and KC Pet Project gathered for a celebration so cheerful it had tails wagging in unison. All were in a PAWSitively thankful mood at the grand opening of “Barks & Rec,” the Kansas City metro’s first-ever outdoor playground built exclusively for adoptable shelter dogs — and just in time for a very grateful Thanksgiving.

Dreamed up, donated, and built by Westlake Ace, the new playground provides a joyful outdoor space for shelter dogs to climb, play, and explore.

“Shelters can be stressful places, especially for high-energy dogs. We want to do everything we can to make their short time with us at KC Pet Project feel more like summer camp — and thanks to Westlake Ace Hardware, our new Barks & Rec Playground embodies that philosophy,” said Kate Meghji, CEO, KC Pet Project.

Alicia Weber, senior marketing director of Westlake Ace Hardware, added,” At Westlake Ace Hardware, we believe in supporting the communities we serve, and KC Pet Project represents the very best of Kansas City. We’re proud to donate the playground and are excited to see the joy it will bring to so many pets waiting for their forever homes.”

Fun and Furry Facts About The Barks & Rec Playground

???? Fills a unique need for shelter dogs by offering play, exercise, and mental stimulation beyond what turf play yards and short walks provide

???? Features steps, platforms, and ramps to give dogs the freedom to climb and explore in a natural outdoor environment to help reduce stress and anxiety

???? Enables the KC Pet Project Canine Team to introduce positive agility training to offer additional mental and physical enrichment

???? Marks the start of KC Pet Project’s broader vision to create more enrichment opportunities for dogs on the shelter grounds