The Velvet Coat - Santa Cruz, California

Cynthia Ogg

Shannon was terrific with my small dog. He stayed in her care for 4 nights and days. He normally is not that playful bit he played with one of her big dogs. Shannon made sure he ate and drank enough water. He had luxury sleeping areas. Shannon is very knowledgeable and caring for dogs. She has a big secure yard for the dogs and inside is all set up for the dogs as well. My dog came home happy and not stressed.

Kristin Yarbrough

Shannon offers the best day care in Santa Cruz County for dogs! Your dog will be safe, loved, and have so much fun. My dog actually doesn't want to come home with me when I arrive for pick up. I trust Shannon at the Velvet Coat 200% with. my doggies. She is extremely knowledgable on all dog things! You will NOT be disappointed with The Velvet Coat!

Anne Chiaramonte

Our dog Lulu loves coming here! Shannon is a gifted dog caretaker. We appreciate her professionalism and also how much she seems to enjoy her dog clients. She is super organized and we always know what to expect from Shannon. Can't recommend highly enough!

Matt Lucero

The Velvet Coat is awesome! I've been taking my labrador there for over five years for boarding and daycare, and she's always excited to go there. They carefully screen new pets, so you can be assured that your fur baby will be surrounded by social, friendly dogs.

Elaine Chen

If you’re trying to find a day-care on your busy work days or a boarding service for upcoming trips, Velvet Coat is the place to go! But be aware, when you dial the number, Shannon has some important questions prepared for you. You might even have to drive up there for an initial consultation. You’ll have to give Shannon a through overview of your canine friend — how they are physically, emotionally and behaviourally.You’ll have to provide her with the updated vaccine records as well as information regarding the animal hospital you take your dog to, or the doctor your dog has been seeing, and what medications your dog is on. It will also be useful to share with Shannon some pictures and videos of your dog, so that she has a clearer sense of who they are and how they are.

But, please, please don’t be discouraged! Shannon is doing this for the sake of your beloved canine friend and the health and safety of all the other dogs under her care. We all have very concrete sense of how infectious diseases work nowadays. I’m sure you don’t want your dog to get sick or have any potential unpleasant experience while you’re away. When in doubt, please kindly put yourself in the shoes of the others whose dogs are currently staying at Velvet Coat.

As a socially responsible person who truly cares about their dog (and any cute little animals in general), you won’t have trouble answering those questions and getting all the necessary documents (e.g., vaccine certification). By now, you probably would have paid a visit to Velvet Coat. I’m sure you and your canine friend are equally impressed (perhaps by slightly different aspects). You’ll then have to get your friend’s luggage ready. Shannon will give you a clean container for the food and snack needed for the length of the stay. And she will be making a detailed list for every single thing you sent with your dog. Of course, you’re more than welcome to use your own container and make your own list.

A large proportion of Shannon’s fringe and freezer is devoted to those who enjoy fresh food. So don’t hesitate to pack those in. A detailed feeding instruction will also be very helpful. If your dog is familiar with the slow-feeders or treat/food puzzles, free free to take them as well. Shannon will make sure your dog feels at home.

There’re no cameras like some other dog kennels that keep dogs in crates most of the time. Rather, imagine your dog stays at this resort, where dogs of different sizes and preferences can be engaged in different activities (or simply lounging) at the same time in different places. And because everybody here have passed the “rigorous interviews”, you know it’s clean, safe and friendly. Your dog gets to join the club of their choice, and is very likely going to make great friends here. Shannon will send you some picture and videos along with informative reports of what your friend was busy with during the day. If she notices any health or behavioral issues, she’ll intervene to protect your dog as much as she can. Note that she asked for your vet’s information so if you happen to be long distance away, she can get in touch with your vet if necessary. Plus, Shannon worked as a vet tech for many years!

Trust me, I was just as skeptical/confused in the beginning. It turned out, I became a much better care giver to my own dog through talking to and learning from Shannon. I will not consider a different place to send our dear canine friend. I’m grateful that we found Velvet Coat!

James Jackson

Shannon is the best! She helped raise and care for our dogs for over a decade. Highly recommended.

Chris Head

Velvet Coat is truly a treat for both you and your dog - not only is the place stunningly beautiful, it’s made with dogs in mind, so there’s plenty to occupy them and never get bored. Each dog is very, very carefully vetted to make sure they’re a good fit for the place, the other dogs, and the proprietress, Shannon. Shannon knows her stuff - highly experienced with dogs and all other manner of critter; also very friendly and down-to-earth. Winston and I will miss the Velvet Coat very much since moving away!

Nick Bautista

Friendly / very experienced/ I highly recommend for the canine member of your family, ?‍‍⬛