Pet shop & dog boutique Het Vachtje is located at Haarlemmerdijk 97-105 in Amsterdam, accessible from Amsterdam North by a free GVB ferry to Centraal Station, followed by about a fifteen-minute walk.
If you live in Noord, you will often look to your own side of the IJ first for a pet shop. However, you are closer to the city center than you think. The ferries are free and the crossing takes only a few minutes. From the landing stage behind Centraal Station, it is a fifteen-minute walk to our shop on the Haarlemmerdijk, and you will get there even sooner by bike.
Which ferry to take from your neighborhood
If you live in Overhoeks, the Van der Pek neighborhood, or Buiksloterham, take the ferry at Buiksloterweg, line F3. This ferry runs day and night. If you come from the Vogelbuurt, IJplein, Meeuwenlaan, or Adelaarsweg, the IJplein ferry (F2) is the shortest route. From the NDSM-werf, Ms. van Riemsdijkweg, and surrounding area, line F4 goes directly to Centraal Station. If you live further from the water, in Nieuwendam, Tuindorp Oostzaan, the Banne, or Buikslotermeer, cycle via Klaprozenweg, Nieuwendammerdijk, or Meeuwenlaan to one of the landing stages. Your bike is free to take on board.
From the landing stage to the Haarlemmerdijk
The ferries land at De Ruijterkade, directly behind Centraal Station. Walk past the station to the west side and enter Haarlemmerstraat, which turns into the Haarlemmerdijk without a side street. We are located at number 97-105, towards Haarlemmerplein. Allow about fifteen minutes on foot; by bike you will be there in a few minutes and can park it at the door.
Nutritional advice that goes beyond the label
In the shop, we ask more before recommending a food: age, weight, activity level, current diet, and any skin, coat, or digestive issues. Then we explain why one brand is suitable and another is not, and which manufacturers incorporate their own proteins. If a simpler or cheaper food works better for your dog or cat, we will simply tell you that. This saves you months of trying it out at home and spares your pet unnecessary changes.
Brands you will not easily find on the other side of the IJ
In the dog boutique, we carry brands such as William Walker, DWAM, 4LAZYLEGS, Dog Copenhagen, and Paikka: harnesses, collars, leashes, beds, and textiles that are only stocked by a handful of shops in the Netherlands. In terms of food, in addition to well-known brands, you will find our own label ARNI. Since you are already in the shop, we will fit a harness or jacket together with your dog right away. This way, you can be sure the size is right before you head back towards the ferry.
The grooming salon
In addition to the shop, we have our own grooming salon. We cut, shave, detangle, and care for coats, even for dogs that find it stressful or have skin problems. For folds, plucking coats, or recurring skin issues, we first assess what the coat needs and consult your veterinarian if necessary. Call us in advance to make an appointment; the schedule fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
Frequently asked questions
Which ferry should I take from Amsterdam North to Centraal Station?
Line F3 runs from Buiksloterweg, line F2 from IJplein, and line F4 from the NDSM-werf. All three land at De Ruijterkade behind the station.
Does the ferry cost money?
No, the GVB ferries across the IJ are free. You do not need to check in or out.
Can my bike go on the ferry?
Yes. The ferries are intended for pedestrians, cyclists, and mopeds or scooters. Cars and motorcycles are not allowed on board.
Does a ferry also run at night?
The ferry at Buiksloterweg (F3) runs day and night. The other connections are closed at night.
How long is the walk from the ferry to Het Vachtje?
About fifteen minutes, via Haarlemmerstraat to Haarlemmerdijk 97-105.
Can my dog come into the shop?
Yes, your dog is welcome in the shop. We are happy to fit harnesses and jackets together with you.
Can I drop by the grooming salon without an appointment?
The grooming salon operates by appointment. Call us in advance, and we will see when works.
Dropping by
You will find us at Haarlemmerdijk 97-105 in Amsterdam, accessible from Noord by ferry and a short walk. If you would like to know whether a size or flavor is in stock, or reserve a spot in the grooming salon, call us on 020 341 33 63. We will set it aside for you if desired until you reach this side of the IJ.