The people (and dogs) behind Syracuse New York’s new community group
Canine Coffee Society is a welcoming dog club and community group for dog lovers in Syracuse, New York and throughout Central New York. Founded by Chris and Kelly VanSanford and Alysha Shortsleeve, the Society brings together people who enjoy dogs, coffee, baked treats, nature, and connection with people who share similar love for their dogs. Canine Coffee Society makes it easier for Syracuse-area dog owners to explore with their pups and meet fellow members of the local dog community.
A Syracuse dog club built on shared adventures
Canine Coffee Society began with a simple idea: a dog walk can be more than a dog walk.
For Chris and Kelly VanSanford, dogs have always been part of the family. As longtime Doberman Pinscher owners and recent empty nesters, they now share life with Lincoln and Ellis, their two energetic Dobermans. The pups join them wherever they can, fom weekend errands around Central New York to their workday roles as beloved office mascots. Chris and Kelly love discovering new places with their dogs, whether that means taking a walk, visiting a dog-friendly destination, or simply getting out of the house together. That everyday joy became part of the inspiration for Canine Coffee Society: a Syracuse, New York community group where dogs are not an afterthought, they are part of the plan.
Alysha Shortsleeve brings the coffee-and-treat side of Canine Coffee Society to life. As a mom to a six-year-old daughter and a son under one, Alysha understands the value of simple, welcoming ways to spend time with people you enjoy. Her love for baking and gathering helps shape the warm, community-first spirit behind each Canine Coffee Society event. Together, Chris, Kelly, and Alysha envisioned a Central New York dog community where people can step away from their routines, share a coffee or snack, enjoy the beautiful local outdoors, and spend quality time with their dogs.
From Pack Walks to Tails & Trails
Canine Coffee Society combines that natural elements that Central New York offers (like parks and trails around Onondaga Lake Park, Green Lakes State Park, Clark Reservation State Park, and the Erie Canalway Trail) with connection for people and their pups. Each outing creates a simple opportunity to show up with your dog and enjoy a shared experience with other people who love their dogs.
Pack Walks are relaxed, social dog walks designed for people and pups who want fresh air, movement, and a friendly group atmosphere.
Tails & Trails adventures invite members to venture farther, explore the outdoors, and discover more of what Central New York has to offer.
Coffee, baked goods, and friendly conversation create an experience that feels less like another obligation and more like a small, memorable adventure.
We believe community happens in the small moments: waiting for coffee, exchanging a leash-handling tip, sharing a trail recommendation, or watching your dog make a new friend. Our goal is simple: help you and your dog spend more time outside, find new favorite places in Syracuse and Central New York, and leave each gathering with a tired pup, a full belly, and a few new friends.
