Pet Services in San Francisco

With 15,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor play space, your mutt will be able to run in circles and bark at the invisible aliens free of guilt or any sense of propriety (daycare starts at $35 a day). Dogs are segregated by size, age, and temperament in play areas, so two-pound Chaingun won't be able to pick on the bigger dogs like he always does. When night falls, fidos enjoy blissful dreams of fat, slow rabbits in either a plush private space or a group sleeping room for those who prefer the stinky camaraderie of the pack (accommodations starting at $50 a night for junior suite). There's even a lap pool so your scruffy buddy can finally nail the backstroke ($30 a session). Cross the rubicon into pet obsession by springing for with an aromatherapy bath (starting at $35 for pooches less than 30 pounds) or a pawdicure ($20). Though the hotel is manned 24/7 by chronic belly-rub-giver-outers, you can always check in on your four-legged life partner via webcam.

Young Yorkies inevitably become runaway runway models after wrapping their canine curves in boutique charm from Touleh. Prep a pug for fashion combat with a green camo jacket ($18), or give Lassie something to brag about besides her subterranean rescue skills with a happy-birthday-to-me dress ($54). Likewise, make every day a celebration with a City Girl pet carrier ($105). Edible accessories such as dog treats ($6–$12) and organic catnip leaf (starting at $3) are also available. Take your Groupon out for a walk around the boutique and give your pet a thrill comparable to chasing cars, tails, and ever-elusive fire hydrants.

As founder of Four Star Farm, Natalie Rooney Pitts instills proper horsemanship techniques in each rider, whether they’re saddling up for simple enjoyment or dreaming of one day prancing onto the Olympic podium. Natalie and her team of trainers introduce new equestrians to the sport via lessons that allow students of all ages and experience levels to take the reins without having to own their own enchanted rocking horse. Atop one of the farm’s fully trained mounts, pupils learn the techniques of English-style riding—including eventing, dressage, and show jumping—while building self-confidence and a mutual respect among man, animal, and belt buckle. The ranch also offers boarding and training services, and youngsters can take part in camps and club events offered throughout the year.

While Spot Pet Care's canine clientele may not appreciate the shop’s attractive displays of goodies, they'll enjoy their contents as well as the affections from Spot's head groomer, Catherine. Styling sessions begin in the facility's stainless-steel, eco-friendly bathtubs with ergonomic contours that help keep dogs comfortable and organic shampoo mixed with just enough water. A window allows full views of the separate grooming room, letting owners watch as groomers make wild manes more manageable. Pups who are especially good or especially spoiled can sniff out a reward in Spot Pet Care's fully stocked canine general store filled with hormone-free treats, fetching collars, interactive toys, and books containing the home addresses of every mailman in town. Lovers of all four-legged friends, Spot Pet Care groomers reserve every second Sunday for cat grooming appointments.

With 13 years of experience in horse boarding, breeding, and training, Airdance Farm shares its time-earned expertise with learning riders of all ages and ability levels. While enjoying the outdoor sun and soothing breezes, students learn the subtleties of equitation at such onsite facilities as an all-weather outdoor arena, a round pen, and a large unfenced jumping area. When practicing trots or gallops while throwing water balloons at unsuspecting downtown businessmen, riders can lead their loyal steeds along a small cross-country track or gallop track.

Virginie Richard, a devout equine enthusiast, opened Mark West Stables more than two decades ago to share her love of horses with students of all ages. She knew she had accomplished her goal when her former student Megan Hernandez came on to work alongside her and instruct new generations of riders.

Together, the two tend to boarded steeds and teach custom lessons in english hunter/jumper-style riding to students of all ages and skill levels, even former riders who want to knock the rust off their old stirrups or horse-shaped motorcycles. Along with lessons, Virginie and Megan offer monthly training programs that supplement tailored instruction with lessons in horse care such as blanketing, medicating, vet appointments, and haircare. During the summer, they also lead fun-filled camps and activities for younger riders.