Travel Destinations Nebraska Omaha, Nebraska Barkuterie Boards Offer Special Treats to Pups Charcuterie boards are having a moment for entertaining with friends and family, but what about your canine buddies? An Omaha entrepreneur has the answer—barkuterie boards. By Ginger Crichton Ginger Crichton Ginger Crichton is a contributing editor for Midwest Living and Dotdash Meredith Travel, and has worked for the brands in various roles since 2008. She has more than 30 years' experience as a journalist, including editing and writing for both magazines and newspapers. A native Virginian, she holds a B.A. in English from the University of Virginia. Her passion is travel, and since moving with her family to the Midwest 16 years ago, she has road-tripped extensively throughout the region. When she's at home in Des Moines, you might find her at the gym, volunteering at a food pantry or puzzling over the latest New York Times Spelling Bee. Midwest Living's Editorial Guidelines Published on July 28, 2021 Sarah O'Callaghan loves dogs—especially French Bulldogs—and is passionate about dog nutrition. "I always had dogs growing up; in fact, my mother used to show dogs and taught me about dog breeds, nutrition and training," says the Omaha resident. But as the years passed, O'Callaghan wondered if changes in diet would help dogs lead healthier lives. She's now a believer in a mixed diet incorporating "different proteins, fresh fruits, veggies and even spices." Her passion translated into a new business this year: Barkuterie Boards. Courtesy of Barkuterie Boards/The Good Life Charcuterie "Being able to create beautiful, healthy boards and bowls for dogs is very fun and very rewarding," she says. She has been partnering with Jasmine Deane, who runs The Good Life Charcuterie (for humans). O'Callaghan, who also started a small French Bulldog breeding program called 402 Frenchies, makes an average of three or four Barkuterie boards a week. "The majority are the Birthday/Gotcha boxes, which I have found have been a nice alternative to dog birthday cakes," she says. Courtesy of Barkuterie Boards/The Good Life Charcuterie Courtesy of Barkuterie Boards/The Good Life Charcuterie O'Callaghan and Deane also attend pop-up events at small local businesses. For pups, they sell both regular boards as well as grab-and-go treat bags. Prices range from $5 for a small treat bag up to $150 for a Large Pawty Box (feeds 6 to 10 dogs). Custom boards can be made for pick-up in Omaha or delivery for an added charge. Boards include treats such as dog-safe fruits, veggies, jerky, biscuits, peanut butter and plain Greek yogurt. O'Callaghan supports other small businesses, too, by adding items like healthy frosted dog treats from Brixtix Bakery, plus she gets her produce from the local farmers market when possible. Courtesy of Barkuterie Boards/The Good Life Charcuterie O'Callaghan's mom, "a huge support system in my life" who shaped her love for animals, died this year. "With her passing, I was really moved to start Barkuterie boards, and I know she would be very proud of me if she were still here," says O'Callaghan. "If I can help educate people on dogs and their nutrition the way she did for me, then I feel like I am doing a community service." Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit