Our Story
Honoring Jake
Jake & Cooper’s Bark Park was created in memory of Jacob Schaffer — a beloved son, brother, uncle, and devoted dog dad.
Jake was a little on the quiet side, but anyone who knew him saw his quick wit, sense of humor, and genuine compassion. He cared deeply for others and often reminded those around him to be kind and not judge what they didn’t understand.
He also had a bit of a “boujee” streak — he liked nice things but stayed humble and down-to-earth.
Jake faced challenges with social anxiety, depression, and addiction. Through it all, he kept trying, showing a fighter’s spirit and determination that never gave up.
Jake & Cooper
During a time of sobriety, Jake decided he needed a loyal companion. After searching online, he found one puppy left from a litter in Cygnet, Ohio.
He had tossed around a few name ideas, but the moment he met the little pup, he knew — his name was Cooper.
Cooper wasn’t quite ready to leave the litter, so Jake waited another week. On February 23, 2021, he finally brought Cooper home. From that day on, they were inseparable — a man and his best friend, side by side through everything.
A Lasting Tribute
Jake continued to fight his battle with addiction, but on August 20, 2021, his journey ended far too soon. True to their bond, Cooper stayed faithfully by his side until the very end.
In the weeks that followed, the community’s outpouring of love and support was overwhelming. As the Schaffers searched for a meaningful way to honor him, an idea took root — a place where dogs and their people could connect, heal, and find joy together.
That vision became Jake & Cooper’s Bark Park — a lasting tribute to the unconditional love between a man and his dog.
Carrying Jake’s Spirit Forward
With the partnership of the City of Oregon, the YMCA, and Toledo Unleashed, the Schaffers helped make that dream a reality.
Jake & Cooper’s Bark Park is now Oregon’s first “boujee” dog playground — a fun, safe place for dogs and their humans to run, play, and make new friends.
The park stands as a celebration of Jake’s spirit, Cooper’s loyalty, and the love that connects all of us to our pets.
It’s a place where tails wag, hearts heal, and friendships — both human and canine — continue to grow.
