If you ask Rover or Rufus where they would like to go for tasty treats or for a “Pawdicure,” one name stands above the rest – Sunshine City Pets. Dogs’ tails wag about this local business. After all, dogs deserve a little “me” time to look their very best. It’s great for pet parents who want to pamper their precious pets!

Owned and operated by residents Matthew and Denise Jones, this locally owned pet boutique and grooming salon has become a beloved spot for pampered pets and their owners alike, offering everything from spa treatments to gourmet dog treats—all with a touch of St. Pete flair.

“We’re passionate about pets,” Matthew shares, expressing the team's dedication to creating a welcoming environment for furry friends. Originally opened in July 2014 as part of a franchise, the business took a new direction when the Joneses stepped away from the franchise model to fully embrace local ownership. “We needed something fun, bougie, or related to St. Pete,” Matthew adds, reflecting on their decision to rename the shop from Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming to Sunshine City Pets.

With St. Pete being one of the dog-friendliest cities in the country, it's no surprise that Sunshine City Pets has flourished. The shop offers an array of grooming services, including baths, haircuts, nail trims, and more, ensuring every pup leaves looking and feeling their best by their six highly trained groomers. Best of all, everything is done by appointment and dogs are not placed in kennels. 

In addition to grooming, Sunshine City Pets is known for its delicious dog treats. “We bake birthday cupcakes and cakes using human-grade ingredients,” Matthew explains. As the self-proclaimed taste tester for their recipes, he admits, “I’ve eaten my share of dog cookies,” ensuring that everything is safe and scrumptious for four-legged clients. One popular item is their sugar-free banana bread, made with tapioca-based frosting—perfect for pups who need a tasty treat without the sugar rush.

The shop also specializes in custom dog birthday cakes. “Dogs have better birthdays than we do,” Matthew jokes, noting that many customers bring their dogs to celebrate at the local dog bar, complete with cupcakes for their canine companions. “We’ve had requests for a dozen cupcakes for a dog’s birthday party,” he adds, showcasing the fun-loving spirit of their clientele.

Despite the challenges posed by recent hurricanes and the displacement of some pet owners, the Joneses remain committed to supporting the community. “It’s a little stressful right now, but we’re here to help,” Matthew states, emphasizing their dedication to both pets and their families.

Whether you’re looking for a stylish new look for your furry friend or some tasty treats to celebrate a special occasion, Sunshine City Pets is the place to be. “Come see us,” Matthew invites, reminding pet owners that there’s always a warm welcome and wagging tails waiting just two blocks away.