The "Couldn't send message, service unavailable" error usually points to a cell reception, SIM card, or billing issue. Start by checking billing, then work through the steps on the Bark Phone.
Check your parent app
On your own device, open up your parent app / dashboard.
If your subscription is paused, that's likely the cause. Contact us to remove the pause.
Tap Account.
Check Billing. If there's a credit card error, update your card and try again. If billing looks fine, continue below.
On the Bark Phone
Turn the Bark Phone off, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back on. Then, see if the issue is resolved.
If the issue continues, let's swipe down from the top of the screen twice. Make sure Mobile Data is turned on.
Next, look at the top status bar.
If it says "Emergency calls only," review these steps.
If it has 📶 poor cell reception, find a location with better signal or turn on Wi-Fi calling (more details below).
Connect to Wi-Fi and turn on Wi-Fi Calling and Texting to see if you're able to send texts. If it's already turned on, try turning it off.
If you still are getting that error sending text messages, let's make sure the number isn't trying to be used by other services:
If the issue persists after deregistering the number from third party services, let's check the SIM card:
On your kid's Bark Phone, open the Settings app.
Tap Connections.
Tap SIM Manager.
Look for Bark SIM in the SIM1 slot.
If it's in the SIM2 slot, remove the SIM card tray and move it to SIM1.
If it's already in SIM1 and shows the correct number, contact us with a photo of the SIM settings and a description of what you've tried.