ODB Team Directory

Leah Thrasher — Owner / General Manager
402.210.4685 | leah@omahadogbar.com

Eden Mazon — Assistant General Manager
773.458.8359 | events@omahadogbar.com

Welcome to the Pack 🐾

This handbook is your guide to working at ODB. It covers the expectations, policies, procedures, and day-to-day information you need to be successful here.

But more importantly, it explains how we do things at ODB.

We aren't a traditional bar. We aren't a traditional dog park. And we aren't a traditional workplace.

ODB is a community built around dogs, their humans, and the people who make this place run every day. Whether you're behind the bar, at the Front Desk, watching pups in the park, working daycare, or leading a shift, every position plays a part in creating the experience our customers know and love.

Our goal is pretty simple:

Keep the dogs safe. Take care of our customers. Support your team. Have fun doing it.

A LIL' NOTE FROM LEAH

ODB is incredibly special and truly one of a kind in Omaha.

What we have here is something pretty amazing, and I knew it could be when I wrote the very first draft of the business plan nine years before we opened.

Before there was a building, a Bark Ranger, a Barktender, or even one dog running around the park, there were pop-ups all over Omaha while I worked to prove this crazy little idea could actually work.

And trust me, convincing banks that a dog bar was a legitimate business idea was not easy.

Then came years of working with the city and health department to prove we could create something that was not only fun, but safe and responsible.

We finally found our home in Little Bohemia—after drawing plans for THREE other spaces first.

Then came more planning.

More approvals.

City Council meetings.

And then...

A pandemic hit.

I about lost my damn mind.

Banks pulled their funding, construction stopped before it even started, and I spent every penny I had saved paying rent and utilities on an empty building because I believed this space had the special sauce.

I knew I couldn't give up on it.

Eventually, we broke ground.

And on February 9, 2021, Omaha Dog Bar officially opened its doors.

Today, you are part of the very first dog bar in Nebraska.

That's pretty damn cool.

I've worked in bars and restaurants most of my life, but I've never been part of anything quite like this.

I want everyone who works here to feel some ownership and pride in ODB. Take care of this place. Take care of our customers. Take care of the dogs. And most importantly, take care of each other.

What we've built here together is pretty incredible, and you are now part of it.

Welcome to the pack.

— Leah

1. THE ODB WAY

Before we get into policies, procedures, schedules, and all the official stuff, there are a few expectations that apply to every single person who works here.

Safety Comes First

We have dogs running freely throughout most of our facility. That makes ODB incredibly fun—but it also means we have a level of responsibility that most bars and restaurants don't have.

Every employee is responsible for safety.

Pay attention.

Speak up when something doesn't look right.

Clean up hazards when you see them.

Know where the dogs are.

Know where the people are.

And never assume something is "someone else's job" when safety is involved.

Customer Experience Matters

People have a lot of choices about where they spend their money and their free time.

When they choose ODB, we want them to feel welcome.

Say hello.

Learn names.

Answer questions.

Help new customers understand how ODB works.

And remember that sometimes the smallest interaction is what makes someone decide to come back.

We're a Team

This is a BIG one.

There is no "that's not my job" at ODB.

Different positions have different responsibilities, but we're all working toward the same goal.

If Front Desk is slammed, help if you can.

If someone needs ice, grab it.

If a mop bucket needs changed, change it.

If blankets need folded, fold them.

If you see something that needs cleaned, clean it.

If your coworker is overwhelmed, ask what they need.

Managers and Leads aren't above these things—they should be the first people jumping in.

We work as a team, and that means helping each other even when something technically falls outside your normal position.

Be Present

When you're clocked in, we need you here.

That means being engaged with customers, dogs, your coworkers, and what's happening around you—not buried in your phone or waiting for someone to tell you what to do.

There is always something to do at ODB.

When you're unsure, ask.

2. WHO WE ARE

Omaha Dog Bar is an 18+ membership-based community for dogs and their humans located in Omaha's historic Little Bohemia neighborhood.

We've combined a professionally maintained indoor and outdoor dog park with a full bar and eatery where people can relax, socialize, eat, drink, and spend time with their dogs in a safe and monitored environment.

Our facility includes:

• Nearly 5,000 square feet of indoor space

• Approximately 12,000 square feet of outdoor park space

• Indoor and outdoor Leash Lounges

• Full bar and eatery

• Doggy daycare

• Self-serve dog baths

• Retail

• Events and community programming

Our Vision

To help strengthen the bond between dogs and their humans so every relationship can be the best it can be.

Omaha Dog Bar

1231 S. 14th Street
Little Bohemia
Omaha, NE 68108

Phone: 531.867.7231
Email: omahadogbar@gmail.com

3. KNOW YOUR ODB

Every employee should have a basic understanding of how ODB works—even if you don't work Front Desk.

Customers will ask you questions.

If you don't know the answer, that's okay!

Don't guess.

Find a coworker or manager who does.

Dog Admission

All dogs entering the park must have one of the following:

• Day Pass

• 10-Visit Pass

• Monthly Membership

• Annual Membership

Memberships and passes are per dog.

Humans do not need a membership and are always free to enter, but all human guests must be 18+.

Dog Requirements

We do not have breed restrictions.

Dogs visiting ODB must:

• Be current on required vaccinations

  • By current, we just mean not expired. So, for example, if a vaccine expires on 8/24/26, it’s considered current and valid through that day, but would no longer be current beginning 8/25/26.

• Be current on age-appropriate puppy vaccinations

• Be spayed or neutered if over one year old

• Be social with other dogs

• Not have a repeated history of aggression toward dogs or people

• Be in good health and free from contagious illness or parasites

• Wear a collar displaying their name

Required Vaccinations

• Rabies

• Distemper

• Bordetella

We accept appropriate titer testing when applicable.

4. THE GOLDEN RULES OF ODB

Employees should know our major facility rules and be comfortable helping customers follow them.

Agreement & Liability Waiver

Humans

• ODB is 18+ at all times.

• Outside beverages and beverage containers are not allowed.

• Outside food is allowed but may only be consumed in designated areas - outside leash lounge or anywhere in licker lounge.

• Food is NEVER allowed inside the off-leash park.

• Guests are responsible for supervising their own dogs.

• Guests are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs.

• Humans are always free to enter ODB.

Dogs

• Dogs must meet ODB's vaccination and health requirements.

• Dogs over one year old must be spayed or neutered.

• Dogs must remain with their humans during their visit.

• Dogs must be off leash in designated off-leash areas.

• Dogs must be leashed in the lobby and Leash Lounges.

• Dogs in strollers or carrying devices must remain in leash-only areas.

• Dogs may only eat in designated leash-only areas while leashed with their human.

Bark Rangers

Our Bark Rangers are essentially the lifeguards of the park.

Their job is to monitor play, recognize behavior before it escalates, redirect dogs when necessary, and help keep everyone safe.

Guests are expected to respect Bark Ranger instructions.

5. BEING PART OF THE PACK

Working at ODB comes with some pretty great perks.

Employees receive:

• A complimentary ODB membership

• Unlimited self-serve dog baths

• 25% off food and beverages purchased at the bar anytime

• One complimentary shift drink after clocking out

• 40% off ODB retail merchandise

• Same discount applies to our online store: Use DOGSARECOOL at checkout.

• An ODB shirt and welcome goodies at hire and when Leah puts in big seasonal orders

• Team outings and events

• Continuing education opportunities involving dog behavior and training

Employees without a dog may gift their complimentary membership.

Discounted purchases must be rung in by the Manager on Duty when required.

Bringing Your Dog to Work

We love having our own pups around too! Employees are welcome to bring their dogs to work anytime, except on event days, with the exception of bartenders. Sorry guys!

Employee dogs must:

• Meet all normal ODB requirements

• Be well-behaved

• Be comfortable around other dogs

• Not excessively bark or create distractions

• Allow you to fully perform your job

Additional department-specific rules may apply.

6. SCHEDULING & ATTENDANCE

ODB only works when everyone shows up for their scheduled shifts and is ready to work.

Being dependable matters.

We use When I Work (WIW) for employee scheduling.

Employees are responsible for keeping their availability current, reviewing the schedule, submitting time-off requests, and managing approved shift changes through WIW.

Time-Off Requests

Submit time-off requests at least 6 weeks in advance through WIW and Slack Eden.

Requests are generally considered first-come, first-served and submitting a request does not automatically guarantee approval.

Shift Coverage

Once the schedule is posted, you are responsible for your scheduled shifts.

If you need coverage:

1. Post in the appropriate department Slack channel.

2. Reach out individually to coworkers who may be available.

3. Keep management informed.

4. Once coverage is found, submit the appropriate swap/drop in When I Work.

5. Make sure the change is approved before assuming you're covered.

If you have made a genuine effort and cannot find coverage, contact the Manager on Duty for direction.

Tardiness

Be on time.

One employee being late can affect an entire shift.

If you're running late, immediately communicate with the Manager on Duty.

Repeated or excessive tardiness may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

ODB Paid sick time

Link to legal document
When does this start?
October 1, 2025.

Do I have to work another 80 hours after Oct. 1 to qualify?
Nope! If you’ve already worked 80 hours at ODB, you’ll start accruing sick time right away on Oct. 1.

How fast do I earn it?
1 hour of sick time for every 30 hours worked.

What’s the max I can earn?
ODB has at least 15 employees, so you can earn up to 40 hours per year.

What can I use it for?

• Your own illness, injury, or medical care

• Caring for a sick/injured family member

• Your child’s medical appointments or school health meetings

• If ODB or your kid’s school/care closes due to a public health emergency

• If you (or a family member) need to isolate for a communicable disease

How do I request sick time?

• Tell Eden or Leah as soon as you can (even if it’s last-minute).

• We’ll update the schedule and track your hours.

Will I be paid my regular rate?
Yes! Leah will manage this on the back end. If you work multiple roles (like bar + daycare lead), you’ll be paid at the higher of your two hourly rates.

Can I get in trouble for using sick time?
No way. Retaliation is not allowed.

7. COMMUNICATION

We use Slack for day-to-day team communication.

Employees are expected to check relevant Slack updates when beginning their shifts and stay informed about information that affects their position.

Use the appropriate channel whenever possible so information doesn't get lost.

Our channels include:

General — Important company-wide announcements and information.

Random — Non-work conversations, jokes, GIFs, and general pack chatter.

Upcoming Events — Upcoming customer events, promotions, and team events.

Bar — Bar, kitchen, menu, and Barktender updates.

Front Desk — Front Desk procedures, membership information, rules, and updates.

Bark Rangers — Dog, member, park, and Bark Ranger information.

Social Media — Photos, videos, ideas, and potential social content.

Things to Order — Supplies we're running low on.

Incidents — Incident-related communication, videos, and photos.

Facility Maintenance — Repairs, maintenance needs, and facility issues. Include a photo and location whenever possible.

Need a Manager?

Managers have administrative responsibilities that occasionally require focused office time.

When possible, Slack or walkie the Manager on Duty rather than entering the office (unless the door is open, which it usually is)

Safety issues are different.

If there is an incident involving a dog or person, contact the Manager on Duty immediately.

8. CELL PHONES & BEING PRESENT

We understand that everyone occasionally needs to check their phone.

A quick check is one thing.

Hanging out on your phone while you're working is another.

Repeated or prolonged personal phone use:

• Looks unprofessional

• Takes your attention away from customers

• Takes your attention away from dogs

• Makes coworkers feel like they're carrying more of the workload

• Gives the impression that you don't care about what's happening around you

If there's downtime, there is always something that can be cleaned, stocked, checked, organized, or prepared.

When in doubt, ask a Manager what you can help with.

If you have an emergency and need to make a call, let a Manager know and use the office for privacy.

Headphones and earbuds are not permitted while working during business hours, but are okay during setup or breakdown.

9. DRESS CODE

ODB is casual, and we want our team to be able to show some personality.

Just remember that you're still representing the business.

Clothing should be clean, appropriate for your position, and allow you to safely perform your job.

ODB apparel is encouraged but generally not required unless otherwise communicated for a specific event.

Footwear

Different jobs have different safety needs.

Bar/Kitchen: Slip-resistant, closed-toed shoes and socks are required.

Bark Rangers: Shoes must allow you to move quickly and safely around dogs. Secure sandals with a back may be permitted.

10. PROFESSIONALISM & CODE OF CONDUCT

ODB should be a place where employees feel respected, supported, and comfortable coming to work.

We're a small team.

That means our behavior has a big impact on one another.

Employees are expected to:

• Treat coworkers respectfully

• Treat customers respectfully

• Communicate directly and professionally

• Help rather than blame

• Avoid gossip and unnecessary drama

• Accept coaching and feedback professionally

• Support coworkers across departments

• Represent ODB appropriately while working

• Speak up when something is unsafe or inappropriate

We don't expect perfection.

We do expect accountability.

If you make a mistake, own it, communicate it, fix what you can, and learn from it.

11. HARASSMENT & DISCRIMINATION

Omaha Dog Bar is committed to providing a workplace free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.

Harassment, discrimination, inappropriate comments, jokes, or behavior based on protected characteristics will not be tolerated.

Employees who experience or witness concerning behavior should report it to management promptly.

Employees may raise concerns without fear of retaliation.

Managers who become aware of possible harassment should notify Leah so the matter can be addressed promptly and as confidentially as reasonably possible.

12. ALCOHOL, CANNABIS & IMPAIRMENT

Safety is non-negotiable at ODB.

Employees may never work while impaired.

Alcohol and Substance Abuse Policy

Employees may not consume alcohol, marijuana/cannabis, illegal drugs, or other impairment-causing substances while working or before a shift in a way that affects their ability to safely perform their job.

This is especially important in an environment involving:

• Dogs

• Alcohol service

• Food service

• Customers

• Moving animals

• Cleaning chemicals

• Equipment

Unsafe behavior resulting from impairment may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Shift Drinks

Employees may receive one complimentary shift drink.

Once you're off the clock, we still expect you to behave responsibly and respectfully while on ODB property if you decide to stick around.

13. GUEST ALCOHOL SAFETY

Because of our liquor license, outside alcohol is not permitted at ODB.

If you see someone with outside alcohol, politely explain the policy and offer to hold it at Front Desk until they leave or ask them to return it to their vehicle.

A simple:

"Hey! Just a heads up—because of our liquor license, we can't allow outside alcohol here. We're happy to hold that at Front Desk for you until you leave."

works just fine.

If a Guest Appears Intoxicated

Do not continue serving alcohol to someone who appears intoxicated.

Notify the Manager on Duty.

If someone's behavior becomes disruptive or unsafe—especially in an environment with off-leash dogs—a Manager may ask them to end their visit or provide them with water, or food to help.

Our goal is always to keep things safe, friendly, and low-drama for both people and pups.

When in doubt, grab a Manager.

14. WORKSTATIONS, FOOD & BREAKS

We need every area adequately staffed during operating hours.

If you need to leave your workstation, communicate with your team first.

Smoking

Please limit smoking to before and after your shift whenever possible.

Food & Snacks

If you need to eat during your shift, communicate with your Manager so your position remains covered.

Employees may eat in designated areas such as the Leash Lounge, office, or employee room.

Breaks

Coordinate breaks with the Manager on Duty so we can ensure appropriate coverage.

15. SAFETY: EVERYONE'S RESPONSIBILITY

ODB is different from most workplaces.

At any given moment, we may have dozens of dogs running through the facility.

That means every employee must stay aware of their surroundings.

Basic Safety Expectations

• Clean wet floors immediately.

• Ask for help when lifting heavy objects.

• Don't use equipment you haven't been trained to operate.

• Know where emergency exits and first-aid kits are located.

• Store and label chemicals properly.

• Keep chemicals away from food and beverage areas.

• Label and date house-made food and beverage batches.

• Do not wear headphones or earbuds while working during business hours.

• Watch for dogs while moving throughout the building.

Cross-Contamination

Dog park cleaning equipment NEVER belongs in the bar or kitchen.

The kitchen/bar has separate cleaning equipment and its own mop sink.

Keep cleaning tools in their designated areas.

Glass

Glass around free-roaming dogs can become a major safety hazard.

Barktenders should transport glass bottles using a crate.

Never freely carry multiple glass bottles through the facility.

16. DOG SAFETY & BEHAVIOR

You don't need to be a professional dog trainer to work at ODB.

You do need to learn basic dog body language and understand when something doesn't look right.

ODB provides training and resources related to:

• Dog body language

• Appropriate play

• Stress signals

• Escalating behavior

• Safe redirection

• Dog-to-dog interactions

• Dog-to-human interactions

If you're uncomfortable with an interaction or unsure about a dog's behavior:
Get help.

It is always better to intervene early than wait until a situation escalates.

Bark Rangers and Managers may redirect dogs, separate dogs, speak with owners, or remove a dog from play when necessary for safety.

If an Incident Happens

If a dog fight, bite, injury, or other safety incident occurs, always get a Manager involved immediately. Even if the incident seems minor, a Manager needs to be made aware so they can assess the situation, speak with the appropriate guests, and determine next steps.

Do not make decisions about whether a dog can remain in the park, return to play, or needs further action on your own. Get a Manager.

All incidents must be handled and documented according to ODB procedures.

See: Incident Response Procedure
See: Dog Bite Policy

17. PAY & CLOCKING IN

Employees are paid every other Friday via direct deposit through Toast.

Employees are responsible for reviewing their time records and notifying management promptly about errors.

Clocking In

Clock in when you're ready to work.

Do not clock in more than five minutes before your scheduled shift unless instructed by a Manager.

Remember to clock in and out for every shift.

If you forget, notify the Manager on Duty as soon as possible so the error can be corrected.

18. PARKING

During Dog Bar business hours, please park in the back lot or at least one block away on the street so we can keep the closest and most convenient parking spaces available for our customers.

One of the three parking spots directly in front of the building is reserved for the Manager on Duty and Daycare Lead only. All other employees should never park in these three spots while working.

For AM daycare shifts, please park on the street so we can keep the front parking stalls open and easily accessible for daycare drop-off. The Daycare Lead is the only daycare employee who may park in one of the three designated spots in front.

And of course, your safety is important to us. If you ever feel uncomfortable walking to your vehicle alone, please let a manager know. We are always happy to walk you out!

Thank you for helping us keep parking convenient for our customers and following the employee parking policy.

19. ANSWERING THE PHONE

Answer ODB calls with:

"Thank you for calling Omaha Dog Bar, this is [YOUR NAME]. How may I help you?"

If someone asks for Leah, Eden, or another Manager, Slack or Walkie them first to see if they're available.

If they're unavailable, take a detailed message including:

• Name

• Phone number

• Reason for calling

Sales calls should be directed to:

omahadogbar@gmail.com

We do not accept solicitations over the phone.

20. EVENTS & BIRTHDAY INQUIRIES

Customers interested in birthday parties, Gotcha Day parties, or private events should be directed to the appropriate pages on the website.

If you're unsure about pricing, availability, or event policies:

Don't guess.

Direct the customer to the website or connect them with management. https://www.omahadogbar.com/birthdays

21. ACCOUNTABILITY & DISCIPLINE

Policies only work when we hold one another accountable.

Violations of ODB policies, safety procedures, workplace expectations, or the Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action.

Depending on the situation and severity, disciplinary action may include:

1. Verbal warning

2. Written warning and/or probation

3. Termination

Not every situation requires every step, and serious violations may result in immediate termination.

Examples of behavior that may result in disciplinary action include:

• No-call/no-show

• Failure to report for a scheduled shift

• Excessive tardiness

• Repeated failure to follow policies

• Inappropriate behavior toward customers or coworkers

• Harassment

• Theft

• Working while impaired

• Possessing illegal drugs on ODB property

• Serious safety violations

• Repeated personal phone use after coaching

• Negligence involving the safety of dogs, customers, or coworkers

This list is not exhaustive.

22. YOUR ROLE AT ODB

This handbook contains expectations that apply to everyone, but every department also has its own responsibilities and procedures.

Employees are expected to review and understand the job description and expectations for every position they work.

These include:

• Front Desk / Guest Ambassador

• Bark Ranger

• Barktender

• Daycare Attendant

• Daycare Lead

• Shift Manager

Cross-trained employees are responsible for understanding the expectations of each position they work.

No matter what your title says, remember:

We're one team.

A Lead isn't there to watch everyone else work.

A Manager isn't above cleaning.

A Barktender isn't too busy to acknowledge a customer.

A Daycare Lead and Daycare Attendant work side-by-side caring for the same dogs.

Everyone contributes.

Everyone cleans.

Everyone helps.

Everyone is responsible for the experience we're creating.

THE BOTTOM LINE

There are a lot of policies in this handbook, but what we're asking from you really comes down to a handful of things:

Show up.

Be present.

Work hard.

Pay attention.

Take care of the dogs.

Take care of our customers.

Take care of each other.

Communicate.

Own your mistakes.

Help without being asked.

And have some fun while you're here.

We're a dog bar, after all. 🐾

Welcome to the ODB Pack. We're happy you're here.

Dog Friendly Patio Variance

The Nebraska Food Code expressly prohibits live animals on the premises of a food establishment 6-501.115 (except for service animals).

However, the Food Code also expressly contemplates the issuance of a variance in situations where the “regulatory authority” (in this case the Health Director) determines that the granting of a modification or waiving certain requirements would not result in a health hazard or nuisance.

We have worked closely with the Douglas County Health Department with our building and operations plans for our concept and have a permit under this variance to allow dogs in our facility.  In part of our permit, we as a staff were required to undergo a training session by a dog trainer to learn about dog behavior, etc. For those new employees, please watch this video of Dog trainer Jessica Gleason demonstrate and teach us about general dog behavior, how to approach dogs, and what signs to look for when possible issues may arise.

If you’d like to read more about the Patio Variance, please visit: https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/images/stories/Dog_Friendly_Patio_Variance_2015.pdf