Today we’d like to introduce you to Pam Shaia.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
In 2012, while traveling, I found myself wandering into every boutique pet store I could find—places that offered more than just supplies, but real knowledge and a deep love for animals. I realized that my hometown of Cocoa Village was missing something special: a pet store rooted in passion, community, and quality.
What began as a simple idea has grown into a cherished part of the community. Tails at the Barkery isn’t just a store—it’s a reflection of passion, purpose, and Cocoa Village pride.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
We opened our doors in 2016 with a mission: to offer only the best for our furry friends—locally made, high-quality treats for dogs and cats, thoughtful products, and personal service. The community embraced us wholeheartedly. Over the years, we’ve not only maintained steady growth but also weathered challenges like COVID and rising costs. We’ve done everything we can to hold prices steady so that our customers can continue to treat their pets without compromise.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Once I had the vision, I knew Cocoa Village needed this store—and I went to work to make it a reality. I had help from family and friends along the way, continuing that personal touch. They rolled up their sleeves with me—from designing the space and painting walls to creating our logo. One nephew ran our website, while another laid flooring and worked with contractors. The Barkery was built with love, collaboration, and a whole lot of heart.
Tails at the Barkery may be a small shop, but we have an outsized impact on our community. As an anchor store in Cocoa Village, our involvement with the dog and cat community brings customers not only through our doors, but into the heart of the Village itself—supporting local restaurants, shops, and events.
Even during COVID, we remained committed to hosting safe, meaningful events for rescue organizations. This year alone, we’ll surpass 24 events and nearly $50,000 raised—every penny going directly to the rescues. Tails never takes a cut; we cover all expenses through the shop, private donors, or co-hosting businesses.
We proudly support an incredible list of organizations, including Mid-Florida Sheltie Rescue (a cause close to my heart as a Sheltie rescuer for over 20 years), Space Coast K9 Foundation, Great Dane Love, Schnauzer Love, Rescue Rebels, Florida Wildlife Hospital, and many more. Whether it’s a greyhound in need or a golden in search of a home, we show up.
But giving back doesn’t stop with animals. We also support the youth of Cocoa Village, believing they will one day shape the kind of community we call home. We partner with Cocoa High School Foundation and Cocoa PALS to ensure that same spirit of compassion lives on.
Tails at the Barkery is built on family, fueled by passion, and sustained by the love of our community. We may be boutique in size—but our heart, mission, and tail-wagging impact are anything but small.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Tails at the Barkery didn’t just set up shop in Cocoa Village—we helped transform it into the most pet-friendly destination in Brevard County.
In collaboration with the City of Cocoa and Mainstreet, we led the charge to make pet-friendliness a defining feature of our community. We educated over 100 local businesses on the benefits of welcoming pets and supported the city’s “pet-friendly” initiative, which allowed restaurants to expand with outdoor dining. Today, visitors see pet-friendly decals on storefronts—a movement we proudly sponsor—along with every pet relief area in town.
Thanks to these efforts, Cocoa Village has become a true destination. Pet lovers travel from hours away to “shop, play, eat, and explore” with their furry companions by their side.
Our impact extends through partnerships with local businesses and rescue groups. Tails proudly hosts and co-hosts events throughout the year that bring our pet-loving community together and raise awareness and funds for animals in need. Just a few of our signature events include:
-Blessing of the Animals (24 years strong)
-Bark Brew Fest with Dirty Oar Brewery (since 2017)
-Painting for Paws with a local artist
-Santa Paws for the Cause
-Spring Tails with the Bunny
-Howl-a-Ween, Tango for Tails, and Space Coast K9 Competition
At Tails, building community isn’t a marketing strategy—it’s part of our DNA.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tailsatthebarkery.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barkery2016
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TailsatTheBarkery/
