The Hiking Camp for Dogs
Maria
Owner | Creative Director
Hi! I’m Maria, co-owner of WOOFPACK. My journey has always been fueled by a deep love for dogs and a passion for hospitality. From a young age, I found immense joy in rescuing bully breeds—Pitbulls, Boxers, American Bulldogs, you name it. At 18, I started my first dog-walking business in San Francisco while pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education. My entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to service led me to co-license a daycare and earn a degree in Hospitality Restaurant Management from The California Culinary Academy Le Cordon Bleu in San Francisco.
After almost a decade in the fast-paced world of corporate catering, where I eventually became a Catering Director for a Fortune 500 company, I realized it was time for a change. In 2012, I moved to Santa Cruz, seeking a life that would allow me to balance my professional ambitions with my love for dogs. Shortly after, I adopted Jax, my American Staffordshire Terrier, from a high-kill shelter—an experience that inspired the creation of WOOFPACK. I saw a need for inclusive, accessible dog care, and I was determined to build a brand that prioritized the well-being and happiness of all dogs.
As Creative Director, I oversee WOOFPACK's marketing strategies and engagement programs, bringing a unique blend of creativity, expertise, and genuine care to everything we do. I’m also a Certified Dog Trainer through the Animal Behavior College, specializing in helping families build strong, respectful, and loving relationships with their dogs. My vision for WOOFPACK is deeply rooted in my lifelong passion for dogs and my commitment to providing safe, social, and engaging experiences that truly enhance each dog’s quality of life.
Family and connection are the foundation of WOOFPACK, and I’m incredibly grateful for the support that surrounds me. My husband, Yukio, who serves as WOOFPACK's General Manager, is not only my partner in life but also in this incredible journey. Our son, Isaiah, affectionately known as our "littlest pack leader," is growing up immersed in the love and energy of our WOOFPACK family, which brings me so much joy. I'm also deeply thankful for my business partner, Ila, who, as our Operations Director, plays a vital role in ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Her dedication is key to our success. Together we’ve built a community where every dog is cherished, and their happiness and well-being are always our top priorities. Welcome to the family.
WE ARE WOOFPACK!!!
Ila
Yukio
Laura
Soad
Erica
Owner | Operations Director
Hello! I'm Ila, co-owner of WOOFPACK, and adorer of dogs! I have a degree in forestry and wildlife conservation from the University of Washington. Animals are my passion, but I've always had the strongest connections with dogs. Seeing them smile or fall fast asleep after a long adventure is so satisfying.
After hiking dogs daily for over a year I still felt the need to adopt my own mutt. We found Moose at the SPCA and now I never feel the absence of "man's best friend" by my side. I love to hike here in Santa Cruz and to camp and backpack throughout the central coast with Moose and my loved ones.
I’m an experienced pet walker and sitter, with timid and reactive dogs, and I’ve developed trusting and loving relationships with these furry friends and their families.
Maria and I have spent a lot of time together on the trails of Santa Cruz with the wagging tails of dogs surrounding us. We have learned so much from each other on how to make our hikes safer, easier and more enjoyable. Developing as dog walkers through communicating every day is the same scenario of growth we can see for the dogs when they get in the routine of walking with a pack. The dynamic personalities of the pups shine when they're out in nature. It's amazing to see the understanding in their eyes and to watch relationships form between all of them. We come to know which ones will be best friends or if some are more interested in our human affection :] Either way, we all find belonging in the pack together.
Dogs and the outdoors--two of my favorite things on earth. I'm in awe that I live in such a beautiful place with people who care as much about their animal's well being as we do. I look forward to getting to know your dog and trying to bring as much delight to his or her day as they will to mine!
WE ARE WOOFPACK!!!
Admissions Coordinator
My journey with WOOFPACK began over ten years ago when my golden retrievers, Lilly and Rylie, thrived under Maria and Ila’s care. I loved the community so much that I jumped at the chance to join the team. Who wouldn't? I love seeing pictures of dogs, playing with dogs and being around such positive people energy!
I grew up with dogs and cats. One of my favorite memories is of my mom taking my sister and I to visit a friend who bred collies. Her dogs had just had multiple litters of pups and she let them out to come see us. Imagine more than twenty fluffy little puppies running towards you looking for kisses. It was the best experience ever! After college and before settling in Santa Cruz, I would love on any dog or cat that I came into contact with. I couldn't wait to have my own dog. Nowadays, I have a houseful of dogs, cats, and kids. We also foster for a couple of different rescue programs. I can't imagine my life without animals.
WE ARE WOOFPACK!!!
General Manager
From a young age, I’ve been captivated by the animal kingdom, dreaming of careers as an oceanographer, elephant trainer, or big cat researcher. My passion led me to volunteer at rescue and research centers worldwide, working with birds, big cats, and monkeys. These incredible experiences deepened my understanding of animal behavior and the profound connections between humans and animals.
Now, I’m embracing a new chapter in life, raising our son, Isaiah, and caring for our four dogs. I volunteer weekly in Isaiah's class, which helps me stay engaged and refine my communication skills. At home and with the Pack, I find joy in training our dogs, understanding their unique behaviors, and seeing the world through their eyes. Dogs thrive in the company of other dogs, and I’m proud to help provide a stable, structured, and stimulating environment where they can grow and connect.
I’m incredibly grateful to Maria and Ila for creating WOOFPACK, a business that has become an integral part of my life. Their vision and dedication inspire me daily, and I’m honored to contribute to the community and lifestyle they’ve built for dogs and their people.
WE ARE WOOFPACK!!!
PACK LEADERS
Amanda
Jordan
Piper
Hana
