The Team
Renato Rios
"Big Dog"
Owner & Expert
Lila Nelson-Rios
"Jefa"
Owner & CEO
JC Nelson-Rios
"Perrito"
Pro-Snuggler
Fernanda Nelson-Rios
"Jefita"
Supervisor
Owner & expert, Renato Rios, is the "Big Dog" himself. With over a decade of experience working with dogs professionally, he is incredibly passionate about working with each "client" individually, assessing their (& their owner's) specific needs and giving personalized attention. Big Dog has had an affinity for caring for animals since he was a young boy. 15 years ago, Renato realized he wanted to pursue his passion and commit to the world of Dog Services. Before opening up Big Dog Coastside, The Rio's Family owned a Dog Hotel & Training Facility in Los Cabos, Baja California Sur for many years before relocating back to Half Moon Bay, CA.
Lila Nelson-Rios, Owner & CEO, is the "Concierge Extraordinaire". With over a decade of Luxury Hospitality experience, she brings her attention to detail and commitment to customer service to every interaction. Lila decided to leave the hospitality industry and relocate her family to her hometown of Half Moon Bay, where she is happily raising her kids. She is dedicated to helping out fellow parents of Furry Four-Legged friends with all of their doggie needs!​
JC – Our Resident “Snuggle Pro” & Dog Care Assistant
JC has taken his love for dogs to the next level by becoming an essential part of the Big Dog Coastside team. When he’s not in school, playing sports, or hanging out with friends, he’s hands-on with the dogs—whether it’s playtime, care, or, of course, snuggles. His passion for dogs is truly one of a kind, and he takes great pride in his work. Following in his dad’s footsteps, JC admires and learns from the “Big Dog” himself, soaking up all he can from a true dog training master.
Meet Fernanda Nelson – Continuing the Big Dog Legacy
Fernanda Nelson, our daughter, has been part of the company since its beginnings in 2010—bathing dogs, walking them, sitting, playing, and enjoying their company. She took a couple of years off for school, but now she’s back and excited to officially join Big Dog Coastside to continue her father’s legacy in canine training.
Fernanda is intelligent, dedicated, and has a deep love for dogs, making her a perfect addition to our team. We’re thrilled to have her back!