Front office staff are always friendly and informative. If you call over the phone and leave a message they call you back the same day. Most places don't bother. Boarding and Bath before pick up is a great option. They have a training option for dogs as well. read more

Shamrock Ranch Kennels & Stables - Front Office - Pet Training Near Me - Pacifica, California

It's always stressful to leave your furry loved one, even for a short time, and it can be hard to find someone you truly trust. Shamrock Ranch Kennels took wonderful care of my dog, Lucci, during the board and train program. A special thank you to trainer Lisa--her patience and kindness really stood out. Handling my big puppy wasn't easy, but Lisa did her best, kept me updated, and gave me helpful suggestions and recommendations after the stay. I truly appreciate her dedication. I highly recommend this facility, Lisa as a professional trainer, and the entire Shamrock Ranch team! read more

Shamrock Ranch Kennels & Stables - Pet Training Near Me - Pacifica, California

Wonderful place to bring your dog for boarding while you're away! Everyone is super friendly and takes good care of your dog. Love that they take dogs of all temperaments, it can be hard to find a place to bring a fear aggressive dog. read more

We love taking Charlie to Shamrock. Lisa is such a great trainer, not only for our dog Charlie, but also to us. We truly appreciate her wisdom. Lastly, the whole Shamrock team is so welcoming, supportive and helpful. Thank you! read more

We recently adopted a pup who an American Staffordshire Terrier/American Pit bull terrier mix and have been looking for the right trainer. I've searched and prayed for the right way. Lisa was referred to me by a coworker whose friend used Lisa as a trainer. She seemed to be satisfied. I emailed Lisa 5/25 in the morning and heard back from her same day in the evening. Today, I called and Donna answered to phone and informed us we can tour the place between 10am-2pm. However, pls call as it might change depending on how busy they are. We arrived around 1145am. Staff were very friendly. Josh, the kennel guide was very knowledgeable and helpful. We spoke to Liv after to get information on next steps. We are scheduled to bring Raya end of June. We are looking forward to her training. She's excited too. I will give an update after her training. read more

See all

Love this place I currently board two horses here and you can tell the staff really cares for the welfare of the animals.

If there's a "home-away-from-home" for my beloved Betsy Dog, Its Shamrock ranch. They have been so sweet to Betsy my 6month old cattle mix puppy since the first week I had her, she tried out for large dog play group and made the cut, because she's so wild and sweet to everyone and can hang with the big dogs. I've done a play group in the morning and used overnight stays multiple times when I had to travel for work, all recently in 2020. Most recently, she even stayed during the second lockdown but we had the reservation advanced booked, so it made the cut. She's always happy when she returns, the facility's are beautiful, clean, they will give you a tour, the shamrock care team consist of real people who love their job, care for you're pet with upMost quality and have joy for animals of all kinds and temperaments. Shout out to; Josh, Mike, Lisa, and everyone!! Happy to bring you guys coffee from soul grind anytime, Merry Christmas!! -Jeff and Betsy read more

Shamrock Ranch Kennels & Stables - I bring the shamrock ranch crew Americanos from #soulgrind - Pet Training Near Me - Pacifica, California

See all

Thank you Lisa for all the great work you've done with my "Bailey". I was in need of someone special to train her. I am internally grateful I brought her to you and your team. The kennels , services, and training far exceeded all of my expectations. Bailey is not easy due to her size, strength, stubbornness, and separation anxiety. One month training/boarding, and she has made strides in her development I would never have thought I would see. Thank you! read more

Shamrock Ranch Kennels & Stables - Bailey: 7 month Shepherd mix. - Pet Training Near Me - Pacifica, California

Been boarding my pitbull here for a while, most recently the last 2 weeks. He and I love the place! He's outside daily with other dogs for daycare on weekdays, and when inside (during the day), his private run is half inside and half outside. This means that he can "go" anytime without waiting for someone to let him out. He can also lay outside in the sun, which he loves to do.The staff are always friendly and helpful. Easy to make reservations online. read more

The staff really cares for your animals. We have a standard poodle and they are smart and sensitive so they do not cope well in toxic situations. Our girl thrives at Shamrock. Lisa has worked her magic in training her. read more

This may be a strange review as I have never used Shamrock Ranch Kennels! However, this is a big shout out to Lisa Rhodes who is the trainer. Even though I have not stepped foot on the property, nor my rescue puppy, she emailed me and supported me through such a difficult process of... do I keep her....or do I surrender her to another family? This full blast puppy has severe separation anxiety which is rough as leaving her alone at home was not happening, she literally panics. Lisa, kindly, patiently has emailed me and talked on the phone with me at great lengths even though I am not a client. What a kind and wonderful woman! Who does this anymore? I am so grateful toher. We are still not sure how we will proceed, but if we keep this puppy, she will be at Shamrock Ranch with Lisa. Just knowing the magnitude of her gracious heart is enough for me to move forward. read more

I can't say I love Shamrock Ranch enough. All the way back to training our first rottie in one of Lisa's group classes in 1998 to doing a board and train for 3 weeks for my most recent rottie, the end result is always the same...an obedient, well-mannered dog. I was nervous about leaving my puppy for such an extended period of time and the first two weeks weren't great for him, but Lisa persisted and managed to get him out and worked him for a week long. She took a fearful, protective, unconfident big boy and turned him into a confident, behaved young man in just 7 days. Rottweilers will always have a special place in my heart but I'm also greatly aware of how important it is for them to be obedient. If you are looking for the same, Lisa is the trainer for you! Thank you again for all you've done for us Lisa. read more

Shamrock Ranch Kennels & Stables - Deebo's 1st bday - Pet Training Near Me - Pacifica, California

Our dog stayed at Shamrock for the 2 week board and train with Lisa. We picked our dog up today and wow! He learned so much from Lisa in 2 weeks!! He is able to walk on leash now with out pulling and her training and advice is really helpful! She is very knowledgable. The facilities are clean and the environment is beautiful. Friendly staff at the front desk and they gave our dog a bath and nail trim at the end of his stay- he looks great! Thank you, Lisa and everyone at Shamrock! read more

Lisa is an excellent dog trainer over the years she has trained two of my German shepherds and my standard poodle each dog arrives home happier confident and obedient and I learn each time I leave a dog in Lisa's hands. The cherry on the ice cream sundae is that each dog Lisa trains adores her. Every person I have recommended to Lisa has been extremely pleased. read more

Having a dog who only wants to listen sometimes was very frustrating for me. Pulling while on walks was miserable, and I was going nowhere fast. I love my dog, and I knew it was time to let a professional lay a foundation. One phone call to Shamrock, and I was able to book my pup for the 2-week inboard training while I was away on travel. Prior to dropping off Mila, I emailed Lisa, who handles the training, and she sent me a follow up email asking to describe my dogs situation and what I want to work on. Nervous would be an understatement, dropping off and watching Mila look all sad while I walked away was tough, but I knew it had to be done. Lisa was great at going over what the major problems were, it it helped shape what she would work on with Mila. Fast forward two-weeks, and it was like night and day with Mila! Down, Stay, Come (still needs practice) all on command, was stress-free. Lisa scheduled a session when I picked Mila, which basically was time spent training me on what to do. Lisa's simplification of basic commands, when and where to use them, has made my life so much better. With the two-week In board training, you get a few follow up visits to make sure your pup is progressing. I'll definitely be back to take her for inboard training again when I go on my next vacay. I feel comfortable knowing that Lisa and the team are going to take good care of Mila! read more

Lisa has been fantastic with our stubborn dog. Highly recommend their services. We are extremely pleased

Lisa was the best in helping us turn around our stubborn dog! After two weeks of kennel and dog training we have a new doggy . Great management team in customer service by the way and we thought experience for our mochas training was great ! She's a handful for sure but with Lisa's help in training her AND training all of us who live with mocha it was worth it for us. Thanks again to entire team on service ! read more

Shamrock Ranch Kennels & Stables - Mocha posing at pickup - Pet Training Near Me - Pacifica, California

Our Labradoodle trained here and boarded here on 2 separate occasions. He has returned home both times well cared for and groomed. When he arrived the second time, he was not afraid to go to the sleeping quarters, my guess was he is comfortable at the ranch and with the staff from his previous experience. read more

I have been using Shamrock ranch since I adopted my pup. I tried to do training, but my dog has a history of abuse and doesn't trust strange humans, esp when her humans are not there. Shamrock ranch saved me from choosing between a life of no vacations and my pup! Dog mom guilt aside, my doggo always comes home healthy and happy to see me! Thank you, shamrock, for providing a place I can board my special needs pup. I trust the staff. They all seem to really love dogs and never judge me for using a drop-off muzzle. I find the facilities beautiful, giving the doggo space to be inside and outside, and for well behaved doggos there are so many friends to play with. read more

Read through the reviews and decided to take a chance on this place. We boarded our dog there and had a horrible experience with this Kennel. I would never bring my dog, or any other pet for that matter, here again and I strongly recommend that you don't either. read more

We boarded our GSD with them and Theresa the trainer worked with our dog on some behavioral issues. GSD was much improved. Theresa did an excellent job, we got back a freshly bathed, toenails clipped much better dog. Would definitely go there and take advantage of all Shamrock has to offer. read more

Sent two dogs for boarding and training with Lisa. The results are incredible. A stubborn 6 year old golden retriever now listens and walks, even heels, like a champ. He will down-stay and sit on command which makes him able to spend more time inside which he loves. The other dog is a 5 month old who had no skills yet. And came out with the same amazing basics. Absolutely incredible. 5 stars to Lisa for training, and 5 stars to staff and facilities. Beautiful place that they were happy to show us around before leaving the dogs. read more

Shamrock Ranch Kennels & Stables - Pet Training Near Me - Pacifica, California

If there was 100 stars, I would give Shamrock that. Lisa was amazing with my GSD pup Gizmo. We just picked him up and I couldn't wait to write a review. He went in mouthy, pulled all the time, and listened when he wanted to. Tried other training facilities, but nothing worked. The difference is like day and night. The training method, advises, and ideology just blew my mind away. If anyone did the trick in teaching Gizmo appropriate behavior, it's definitely Lisa and the staff at Shamrock. We have many years with Gizmo and we're looking forward to a well behaved pup. Lisa was the stepping stone, but it's up to us to be consistent. Thank you so much Shamrock for being so wonderful from the beginning. I will recommend you guys to anybody looking to train their fur baby. read more

Words cannot express the awesome experience and results we've had working with Lisa Rhodes at Shamrock Ranch. She'd been recommended to us by a friend who had a dog with a lot of behavioral issues and close to that time as well - I'd seen the most well behaved puppy ever walking down Burlingame Avenue. When I asked the dog dad who did the training, I learned that it was Lisa at Shamrock. Since then, when we've been around town or at parties and mention our puppy went to 'camp' - we hear many wonderful stories of Lisa doing amazing things with their dogs too. For Bella and us working with Lisa was life changing. Our 6-month old puppy is sensitive, smart, high-energy, joyful, playful and strong willed. Bella is a rescue and eclectic mix of many breeds. We'd tried various classes, many books, and drawing from our 12 years of experience with our Golden Retriever. These were not working effectively. We enrolled Bella in Shamrock working with Lisa for 2 weeks and she came home a completely different dog in terms of obedience, understanding what we expect, and an even deeper connection with us. Lisa worked on behaviors like: not jumping, walking on a loose leash, socialization with other dogs, being calm and settled, down-stay and sit-stay and others. I admit it was difficult for me to be away from Bella for the time, however we knew she was in great hands and love the end results. Lisa used a combo of approaches and training that were customized to Bella's needs and our priorities all within the context of her insightful 30+ years wealth of experience and philosophy that a well trained dog is a happy dog. Because of the training, we're heartened that now Bella can truly have the biggest, fullest, happiest life -- be able to travel with us, be out and about at restaurants or in friends' homes, at events, and engaging with people and other dogs/situations and adventures. When we went to pick up Bella, we also received our training with Lisa and brought home the strategies, approaches, and tips that she shared with us so that we can be consistent with Bella and reinforce - not undo the training. Bella continues to flourish. We're so happy that we made the decision for her to learn from Lisa and stay at Shamrock! Also, the team at Shamrock was terrific. To call out: Kevin at the Front Desk is knowledgeable, helpful, kind and calm. John, whose grand dad bought the Ranch many years ago, is wonderful and involved. The 200-acres of open space have a Zen- like and positive energy. We are grateful to Lisa and team for what she taught our Bella and us. All the praise and compliments you read in these reviews of Lisa being the best, a dog whisperer, amazing, inspiring, and all - are true from our first hand experience. Lisa will be in our lives for a long time. We look forward to continuing to work with her. read more

See all

"Down. Stay." Two simple words that have my changed my relationship with my dogs. I was hesitant to leave my dogs with someone else to train, but I had to push my ego aside - I really needed the help. Not to say my dogs were terribly difficult or aggressive, but I definitely needed guidance on how to ensure my dogs live the best life they could. Enter Lisa. I had heard about Shamrock Ranch and their in-board training option from a friend and I did my research. My dogs have never been boarded before so there was a bit of unsure feelings but it was one of the best decisions I've made. My dogs are so much happier now that I've been given the tools to help them be successful. The training is really for us humans and Lisa spent a good amount of time to train me (and those who spend a lot of time with my dogs), which is included in the in-board training and the most important meeting. The training doesn't stop when you leave the ranch so my dogs and I will keep working together, but with much more confidence! It's been nearly a month since my dogs have come home and I continue to update Lisa now via email on my dog's progress as requested by her. I know she's swamped so email is a great way to connect with her and understand that responses don't always come right away. We're so grateful for Lisa's training and thank everyone at the ranch! read more

We had heard mixed reviews about the place, so didn't try it for some time. However, we did take our dogs there for some time (boarding and day care), but unfortunately had to find another solution and wouldn't recommend it if you have other options that avoid the pitfalls below. Staff: with the exception of one person, the staff are the bright spot. The folks who work at the front desk were always nice, and the team who takes care of the dogs during day care were the best. It would be one star if not for these folks (again, minus the one). Facilities: a few issues here. First, the day care area: (1) it's largely outside and the dogs are able to dig, so there's the risk of exposure to standing water; and (2) two play areas sit right next to each other with a fence, which is odd for a place designed for dogs - it encourages fence aggression. Second, the boarding area was cacophonous - crazy loud. I realize it's a kennel, but we've boarded our dogs at four different places and none were this loud. Other: after having the dogs there for some time, we were suddenly told they were being aggressive. We didn't see that behavior at home or at the dog park, and became suspicious. It happened to be around the same time we were checking out other places and made a move. Interestingly, we've heard nothing from the new place (and still seen nothing at home) - in fact, the report cards they provide show the dogs as playful. We prefer to keep money coastside when possible, but have switched to a place over the hill and are happy with it. read more

The horse boarding facility is absolutely the best in the Bay Area, with a middle of the range price. I moved from Australia and researched 14 ranches close to San Francisco. 13 of them were awful. Horses caged in "stalls" all day. Urine soaked mud. Gossipy people. Cruel training methods. Then, luckily, I found Shamrock. At Shamrock, every horse spends all day in pasture. It's a rule. There are several pastures to choose between, according to what suits the individual horses. The horses are fed quality grass hay in a sensible system, that prevents angst amongst the herd. The boarders were so welcoming when I moved there. And their horses are happy, calm and well behaved. There is a google group for sharing information like spring shots and the social BBQ. Everyone always invites each other to ride out on the trails. The trails are mostly single track all over the Pedro Point Headlands, with spectacular views of the ocean all along the top. Update: My horse and I have now been at Shamrock for six months, and I couldn't recommend Shamrock highly enough. The people are wonderfully friendly, and the horses are very healthy and well cared for. The staff do a terrific job, and are lovely to be around. I couldn't be happier. read more

See all

Shamrock Ranch is certainly a strange old property. There are lots of white and green buildings of various sizes and shapes here. You'll also see old roads to nowhere and footings of buildings that are long gone. I have a bit of a soft spot in my heart for properties with a lot of history. Some of the buildings seem to be unused, and are in various stages of decay. I wonder if that's what some of the earlier critics were concerned about? If so, they shouldn't worry, because those buildings aren't where your pets will be staying. We bring our dog here a few times a year, and I think the facilities are nice. The indoor portions of the kennels are heated, and there are outdoor runs for fresh air. Everything is very clean. On my last visit, I noticed they are doing some major upgrades to the older kennels. The staff here are friendly and professional. I haven't done a lot of price comparisons, but the rates are certainly better than at those fancy places where your dog gets its own hotel suite! You can also pay extra to have your dog walked and/or groomed. And if you have a little guilt about dropping off your pet, you can buy a last-minute chew toy in the office. read more

I hate boarding my dog. She always comes back anxious. Shamrock must have treated her great, as she came back to me with indifference, as if she were coming out of a dog spa. She failed at "group play" so she had one on one walks & play time. When I came to pick her up, it was pouring down rain, they told me she was out for a walk. That was dedication to be walking them in the downpour. No suprise fees, no problems with drop off or pickup. It's not home, but it seems like a great alternative for those times when I can't take her with me. read more

We went to Lisa with our five month old golden retriever puppy for the two week board and train program and I can't recommend it enough. He's a stubborn pup and we could not get him to stop constantly demand barking at us - just all the time, anything he wanted, he'd bark. He was difficult to take on walks, jumping up, and not really listening if he didn't want to. I was nervous to leave him for boarding but he was very clearly well taken care of and getting lots of socialization with other pups. When we picked him up, we had time with Lisa to really learn the philosophy of the training and what works for our dog (vs. just general guidance). So helpful, because you can read lots of books, but having someone assess your dog made a huge difference. We learned the techniques we needed to in order to continue the training. Is he perfect? No, he's still a puppy - but he's QUIET (a miracle!), way WAY better able to walk on a leash and more receptive to commands. I tell everyone how worth it this was. And, when traveling again is a thing, we'll definitely be using them for boarding our dog too! read more

Shamrock Ranch Kennels & Stables - Our dog and his new friend - Pet Training Near Me - Pacifica, California

Me and my husband couldn't contain how happy we are seeing our dogs (two 5mos old labs) changed to a well behaved ones!!! The training they had with her was amazing that until now m still shock like is this real??? Like them not jumping or barking or pulling??? Of course we gotta continue to be consistent on their trainings..:m so excited to walk them now now that u wont have to worry being pulled so bad...i would highly recommend this place! The price for it? Its worth it!!!! read more

See all

Shamrock Ranch has a lot to offer for dog owners. Lisa offers EXCELLENT training, whether during boarding or through classes, we have done both. Not only does our dog need to know what the rules are, but so do we and we both need to learn how to communicate expectations. Lisa does an awesome job of explaining why dogs do what they do and how we can use those traits to get them to behave appropriately. Kennels are partially indoors/outdoors. If you are looking for temperature controlled, plush accommodations for your pet, this is not the boarding for you. But if you are looking for a kennel for your dog that will take good cared for them, walked and kennel cleaned daily, and possibility this is the boarding for you. read more

Thank you Lisa Rhodes for all of her help in training our puppy Dakota. Taking her out for walks and having her in the house is stress free. This would have never happened if we didn't hire Lisa to train her and train us. Lisa not only changed our relationship with our puppy but changed the entire relationship with being a dog owner. I would highly recommend Lisa she really goes above and beyond in her training and I'm just so happy with the results. read more

Shamrock Ranch Kennels & Stables - Dakota is so well trained thanks to Lisa Rhodes and the entire staff at Shamrock Ranch Boarding & Training 6.23.17 - Pet Training Near Me - Pacifica, California

I was stuck. I couldn't take my dog with me when I was going away for the weekend, my regular dog/house sitter had an injury, and I couldn't find any friends to take my dog. I'm sure any dog owner can appreciate how difficult it can be when your regular dog sitting options are not available... and you are due to take a trip, and all on short notice, too. Based on a friend's recommendation, two days before I'm leaving I call Shamrock Ranch. The booking was SO easy. The cost was very reasonable. It was a 30 minute easy drive outside San Francisco. The kennel staff and front desk staff (Kevin & John are the names I remember) where all very nice and friendly and when I picked my dog up - he was in one piece, safe and sound. Thanks, Shamrock Ranch! read more

The people at Shamrock Ranch Kennels, Stables, and Grooming are the best. I was going into the hospital and desperately needed to board my old boy. 15 now and I've always loved their exceptional service. He's considered an aggressive dog but you could literally push him over now. They've never had a problem with him as far as I know. They were booked up and I almost started to cry when Linda at the front desk heard hospital and she said to hold on while she spoke to Mike the kennel manager. She came back on the line and said that Mike said to bring him in. They're not just there to make money because they genuinely care about their clients, both 2 and 4 legged ones. I whole heartedly recommend them 100%. All of the staff are phenomenal. read more

I wish I'd known about Yelp when I took our dog to this place. I felt so guilty after. Trying to save a few bucks, we took our dog here when we went on a week-long vacation. What a mistake. When we picked her up upon our return, she almost got away from us as she tried to make her escape when the kennel/stall door opened. She had her head down and was determined to make it out of there. She didn't even notice us. Just based on that, we'd never recommend this place. But looking back, the facility is really not very good. Old decaying buildings that used to be horse stalls, I think, are used to kennel the larger dogs. We thought it would be good because she would have an outside dog run and we were paying for the additional walker time. But I think it was just dark, cold and wet all the time. And I really don't think she ever got walked, she had no connection to the handler who helped us check her out. We were unhappy, so was the dog. read more

If I could give this place zero stars I would. I never write reviews, but given the circumstances I absolutely need to. We went away for new years and left my 10 month old husky in Shamrock's hands for just two nights. When I went to pick him up I asked the staff how he was and the only answer I got was good. This was his first time ever in a kennel so I was looking for a bit more. About 7-10 days later he became very lethargic, wouldn't eat or drink. I took him to Oceana where he was diagnosed with Parvo. Keep in mind it's very rare for a 10 month old to get Parvo, especially a 10 month old that had been vaccinated. What bothered me even more was the fact that a friend of a friends dog also stayed at Shamrock and picked up Parvo shortly thereafter. Unfortunately, their dog did not make it. I am happy to say that almost $10k later and after 5 days at Norcal clinic my husky is recovering. I am getting reimbursed by the vaccination company for all the expenses. Look elsewhere when you need to board your pet please! read more

I was put on the waiting list of my usual kennel for Christmas thru New Year's boarding, so I decided as a back up to reserve at Shamrock Kennels with $50 down payment. Luckily I got into my usual kennel and when I canceled my Shamrock reservation and get my money back, they said it was not refundable and would be put on my account for my next boarding stay. Umm I don't f'in board here so I would never get my $50 back. F U you greedy bastards, I could probably get it back in small claims court, but with court fees it wouldn't be worth it. I contacted a Yelper who used to work here, she said the dogs are not closely monitored except during feeding time and some of the kennels have sharp metal sticking out. Nice view and area, but I will not use these people for anything...ever! read more

I have been bringing my dogs to shamrock grooming for years. Picked up my dog and she had been brushed so hard hair was gone, skin very red and inflamed. So off to the vet. The ranch did pay that vet bill directly. January brought my standard poodle in for grooming, was told when I picked my girl up & saw she was limping, I was nonchalantly told she jumped off grooming table and hurt her paw that she'd be alright. Well she wasn't had to have surgery, extensive home therapy & swimming. All of which I must say shamrocks insurance was very good in handling claims. I had to put the money out & insurance would reimburse me. Surgery was $5,000. I feel groomer was negligent. read more

Maybe I'm missing something regarding Shamrock Ranch. It received such bad reviews but I have always had a good experience here. It's a little like sending your doggie to live on a farm for a week. The kennel your dog stays in are twice to three times larger than most kennels and they let you bring an unlimited number of blankets and toys for your dog which is pretty rare. Each dog has access to a heated indoor area and an outside area so there's plenty of variety. The dogs get long scenic walks in the hills of Pacifica and have plenty of opportunity to play with other dogs. One reviewer was dismayed that the dogs drink out of dirty metal buckets. I don't know about you but my dog doesn't know the difference between water out of toilet and Evian served in a crystal goblet. Dogs seem to be happy with either. I am docking a star because they are not very flexible. If I'm running 10 minutes late, they won't wait for me. They tell me to come back tomorrow morning (and pay an additional full day of boarding). They give me grief when I pay with a credit card. Otherwise, I think it's a pretty good place. read more