Sarasota is going to the dogs, and we’re here for it. Paws ‘n’ Rec, one of Tampa Bay’s most popular dog daycare, boarding, training and grooming facilities, is now open at 2226 8th St., offering convenient access from all areas of the city.
Paws ‘n’ Rec has been a smash hit since first opening locations in Hillsborough County, followed by a wildly successful opening in St. Pete. With the expansion south for the membership-based facility, one of the area’s most trusted names in pet care is coming to Sarasota.
Paws ‘n’ Rec is the region’s premier dog care service
The new dog resort features spacious play yards, carefully designed luxury suites, and modern amenities that prioritize comfort, cleanliness, and safety. With structured, cycle-based group play and an industry-leading low dog-to-person ratio, pups receive personalized attention and enriching daily adventures. That individual attention is one of the key factors that makes Paws ‘n’ Rec stand out.
In addition to the dog spa and grooming services, Paws ‘n’ Rec offers two membership services – “daycare adventure” and “overnight hoteling,” providing options for daily care while pup parents are at work, or regular overnight stays when you’re out of town. And those memberships include 24-hour care, as well as perks such as discounts at area pet-related stores and businesses.
They also offer some of the best dropoff and pickup hours anywhere in the area, open daily from 6:30 am – 10 pm. So even if you just need a night out to dinner after work, your furry friend will be ready for you after you eat.
Paws ‘n’ Rec also features medical-grade HVAC systems that produce 100% fresh, outside, filtered air that is pumped into the facility at all times. With more than a decade in the business, the team behind the new spot is at the top of the game and has earned the trust of repeat clients and members over the last 10 years and counting.
Paws ‘n’ Rec is a local success story
Paws ‘n’ Rec was founded by two best friends, Taylor Wallace and Michael Mayleben in 2020. Mike has more than a decade of experience running dog daycares, while Taylor previously worked with Tech Startups both in Tampa and internationally before channeling his passion for hospitality, customer experience, and community into the pet care industry.
As Paws ‘n’ Rec continued to grow, Mike and Taylor connected with Todd and Mandy Rowley – passionate, longtime pet care professionals who have spent decades in the industry. Deeply rooted in their family’s pet care legacy in St. Louis, Todd and Mandy are now bringing their expertise and leadership to Sarasota, spearheading the expansion of Paws ‘n’ Rec while staying true to the values and care standards that define the brand.
Our teammates at our sister sites in St. Pete and Tampa have raved for years about the Paws ‘n’ Rec experience, and we’re thrilled to see the high-level care come to Sarasota. The exclusive, membership-based pet care experience is designed to provide dogs with the utmost luxury and safety. Every pup is thoroughly evaluated before joining their pack, ensuring a positive and safe environment.
