Welcome to Barks and Recreation!

Barks and Recreation is Santa Cruz’s new licensed, bonded, and insured dog walking and pet sitting service proudly owned by yours truly, Ethan Warner. 

Let’s get to know each other! 

I am first and foremost a lifelong lover of all pets, having been surrounded by animals most of my life. I am also a recent graduate from UCSC (go slugs)! I’m so grateful that my education brought me to Santa Cruz, but the inconsistency of school housing and schedule makes owning pets a difficult task as a student. 

Years ago I felt like I absolutely needed some K9 companionship in my life, but knew that it was not the right time for me to be an owner. However, at this same time there was still a lingering encouragement to isolate for COVID 19 for those at risk. Many older folks who were dog owners in my neighborhood were thrilled to hear that I was more than happy to take their pups out for a while. 

I found this to be something I truly enjoyed, and was pretty good at! Not only was I able to connect with my community and meet some great new people and pets, but it was also totally a win/win scenario! My COVID dog walking endeavor sort of wound down as I transferred to UCSC, but I continued to pet sit for friends and family as much as I could. Now that I finished my education and am well established on the Westside, I can’t wait to form amazing new connections with the pet community! I am beyond excited to bring the joy of Barks and Recreation to Santa Cruz.

I look forward to getting to know you all.

Ethan Warner