Morty’s Bark & Brew is built on a holistic health and wellness philosophy that will shape a safe, engaging social space for people to bond with their dogs. And that space is an indoor-outdoor beer hall dog park. (Yes, it’s as cool as it sounds!) At its core, Morty’s is a community of support that builds healthy and happy relationships between dogs and their humans through education, fun, and (of course) beer!
Mission
Founder Air Gustafson started Morty’s Bark & Brew to help people connect more deeply with their dogs by becoming more educated and engaged dog parents. Years ago, Morty, Air’s dog and soulmate survived a scary, near-death experience that opened Air’s eyes to a holistic health and wellness approach that has since then enriched both of their lives. Morty is now 11 years old and THRIVING!
Air is committed to sharing everything she has learned in order to help dogs in her backyard and beyond to make a BIG impact:
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LOCAL IMPACT: Morty’s brick-and-mortar location will foster social learning and safe fun for dog parents and their pups and features local brews that support the rich community of independent breweries and dog companies in the Twin Cities.
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NATIONAL + INTERNATIONAL IMPACT: Morty’s gives back to local and international organizations through merchandise sales and digital engagement on the Morty’s Bark & Brew website. Activities like signing up for email help feed hungry and injured dogs.
Location + Offerings
We’re NOT your typical dog park or brewpub. Here’s how Morty’s Bark & Brew is different:
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SAFETY FIRST: Morty’s will require a pre-visit screening process that includes an orientation to learn about the community and space rules.
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ENGAGEMENT: This isn’t a place to just let your dog loose and stare at your phone! Morty’s will feature game days, training opportunities, a photo booth, and other fun ways for people to actually spend time with their dogs in a social setting.
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STAFF: They’re not babysitters, they are trained “Morty’s Coaches” who will be available to help you learn and engage onsite, answering questions or helping you teach your pup a new trick or skill.
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COMMUNITY: Morty’s is membership-based to give it a private community feels where other dog parents will be in the community with other health-focused owners. While everyone is welcome to visit, special events and opportunities will be offered for members to help them bond too!
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STORE: An onsite store will offer healthy food, toys, and other products for dogs that are made locally and align with Morty’s holistic philosophy.
IFW Funds Plan
Morty’s Bark & Brew is in the process of securing property for its indoor-outdoor beer hall dog park located in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota. Funds raised from this campaign will go toward adapting the space to meet the safety standards of Morty’s Bark & Brew.
Meet the Founder
Air Gustafson was born and raised in Northern Thailand and has loved animals (especially dogs) since she was young. But she didn’t know just how much until April 2011, when a young rambunctious little mutt named Morty picked Air to be her mama.
Air’s background includes a Bachelor of Fine Art (Computer Art) degree, which allows her to create something beautiful out of nothing and appreciate the beauty of the unknown. She later earned a Master's Degree in IT Security, providing her with a solid understanding of the importance of a “safety first” culture.
Being a mechanical designer has given Air an eye for detail and precision. She has served as a liaison between multiple ongoing large construction projects and corporate business services. Air uses her keen observation skills and influencing ability to harness the power of collaboration and teamwork.
