The purpose behind Tails & Ales is close to the heart for the founder, Mark Gorman. The inspiration was born in a defining moment when he realized the need for a safe, welcoming space where people and dogs could connect, relax, and unwind together. That moment sparked a mission. Alongside his wife, Amy, and family, Mark set out to build a true third space in Tulsa, blending the spirit of a park, a coffee shop, and a neighborhood bar into one vibrant community hub.
Mark and his wife Amy have always sought ways to build community, especially those that included their pup. After adopting an energetic dog early in their marriage, they quickly learned he needed regular exercise. To keep him content, they began visiting a local dog park routinely.
At the same time, Mark transitioned to working a remote corporate job. While it offered more flexibility, the role left him craving social connection. The dog park filled that void. As the weeks passed, Mark and Amy kept seeing the same familiar faces at the park. Slowly, acquaintances became friends, and the park became their community’s front porch — a space where shared interests and conversations forged meaningful connections. “Before we knew it, some of the best friends that we had were the people we had met at this dog park,” Mark explains.
But over time, the experience grew complicated. Because it was a public park, the responsibility for safety and rule enforcement was left to the park goers. Occasionally, dogs with poor social behavior arrived, often with inattentive owners. That unpredictability began to tarnish what had once felt like a sanctuary. “It was a love-hate relationship,” Mark recalls.
One day during a typical visit, a particularly aggressive dog entered. Mark immediately sensed the familiar unease. Within seconds of being let off leash, the dog charged toward theirs. Amy instinctively stepped in to protect their pup and suffered a bite to her hand. They quickly rushed to the ER to attend to the wound and take precautions against any health risks, as they had no way of knowing the dog’s health or vaccination status. Though she physically recovered fully, their trust in the park never did. In that moment, Mark’s long-standing concerns crystallized. They needed a better way — one that preserved the community they loved, without the looming fear.
That’s when the vision for Tails & Ales, which had taken root over the months, finally began to grow.
Mark and Amy dreamed of a space where the environment was curated, safety was prioritized, and connection was effortless. A space where dog owners could relax, knowing every dog was held to the same behavioral and health standards.
While starting Tails & Ales had its challenges, backed by a strong purpose, Mark and Amy pushed forward. Eighteen months after its inception, they found the perfect location to bring their dream to reality. On May 1st, 2024, Tails & Ales officially opened at 1903 S Boston Avenue.
Today, Tails & Ales is thriving — not just as a private dog park, but as a genuine community space. Every dog is vaccinated, fixed, and temperament-tested. Staff attendants ensure safe play, so owners can truly unwind. Whether you’re sipping a coffee, enjoying a cocktail, or chatting with someone new who shares your love for dogs and most likely other things, one intention is clear: this space was made for connection. There, community comes first. You don’t even need a dog to experience it.
The goal of this space is not to just be a dog park, it's to build community.