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Citipets
Rating Details »
Category: Pet Stores [Edit]
Neighborhood: West Portal183 West Portal Ave
San Francisco, CA 94127
(415) 564-1183
- Hours:
Mon-Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Sun. 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
43 reviews for Citipets
For all the people who have ever received poor customer service at the store, I can only guess you were there on an off day -- or with people who have since been let go. I've never had anything but above and beyond excellent customer service and attention.
As the owner of two wonderful loving kitties, I tend to shy away from boutiques since they mostly cater to dog owners -- and all I am usually buying is food that is available at pretty much all pet stores.
Thanks to good advice and a free samples, Citipets was responsible for improving my kitties diet (the love EVO dry food). They have also been generous with catnip samples and even throwing in a free mouse -- which became our kitties favorite toy (and now a staple that I stock up on when I visit).
All and all, I'm thrilled that Citipets is my local pet store.
Very strange place
Weird people who work there (own it?)
Paltry selection
Not so sure about the lady at the register - can't seem to make eye contact or follow conversation.
VERY VERY GOOD SERVICE. My dog love all the things I buy him from here. All the rawhide chews, my dog LOVES. Now, I just stock up whenever I come in so I won't run out. Tofu LOVES the pretzel chew, and the hoof. He will be chewing it day and night, nonstop. I am so glad the owner introduced me to them.
I'm so conflicted with this one. They have such a great selection of stuff. Great treats for the dogs, cute sweaters and good bath products for pups.
Then...there is the employees...while they are very friendly..they do not have the best customer service skills...If they are helping a customer, they are only locked into that customer until they leave...which makes it difficult to purchase and ask questions. they are also losing opportunities to make a bigger sale..
Great store though!
I'm embarrassed to admit that I've become "that" pet mommy. I spoil my boys something rotten. I was happy to find the Sleepypod pet carrier in the store, but at the time, they only carried the larger version. The woman was helpful and said that if I were interested, she could see about ordering me the smaller size.
When I'm looking for an unique dog sweater or vest for my Chou Chou, I usually end up here. They seem to have a pretty good selection of clothes, although they could probably stock up more on the smaller sizes, as it seems that every time I go there, they have tons of the larger sizes.
Well, I do like this store. Unfortunately I cant rate higher for one reason - customer service. I have been into this store several times, and on at least two occasions the clerk was deep in a cell phone conversation. It was clear I was a bother and he was put off, but continued his chat, I believe dinner plans. Anyway, didn't help when I returned to find the owner gabbing away on HER cell.
Folks, give the customers a break.
Like all the previous reviews on Yelp, I adore this place. After pampering myself and getting a mani/pedi in the Sunset, I decided to drive up to Citipets to get some treats for my two lovely pups!
Imagine my surprise when I found their usual treats cheaper than the price I usually pay for them in the East Bay! What?! I was getting ripped off. Since the prices were reasonable, I decided to stock up on their Banana/chicken dog treats and picked up a couple of bully treats for my Boston terrier.
The ladies/owners were super helpful and friendly. Next time I'm here, I'm going to make sure I have the pups with me. I know they'll enjoy the store much more than I do. Plus they'll get to try on the cute clothes that Citipets stock! Adorable pet boutique with affordable prices! What more can a pet lover ask for?! Not much I tell you. Parking isn't bad. Just remember to bring your quarters cause it is metered parking only. Unless you want to park a few blocks down and trek your way over here.
Great selection of high quality dog food (Innova, Solid Gold, Merrick, Canidae, Evangers, etc) at a lower price than other boutique pet stores. Buddy has allergies so we keep him away from chicken and grains. Citipets carries a variety of wet/dry food and snacks (really great ones) that others don't. They sold this buffalo jerky that was so high quality that the owner ate a piece to show us how great it was. And when she didn't carry a smaller size of dry food, she ordered it at no cost to us then called when it was in the store. She also carries the Dogo EasyGo harness that I can't find anywhere else!!
Great store. This store is clean and has a good variety of cat goodies. The young cashier is very helpful and honest when it came to which cat treats/foods were more popular than the rest.
I consider myself pretty informed about the best cat feeds and I am happy to say that this store sells the typical high-end products, as well as some that I've never heard before but that look excellent. I ended up buying a can of pheasant food and a cat of salmon food just to try out. I love the size of many of the cans, too! They're tiny, which is excellent since most cats don't actually eat a typical can's worth of food.
The snacks, while good in quality and variety, unfortunately contained some expired items. The entire line of ziwipeak cat jerky (lamb, venisson, venisson + mussels, etc.) were expired in the summer of 2008.
The cashier took them all down and said that they aren't too popular, despite being excellent items. I have no idea why, since the bags are attractive to me. I settled for another brand that the cashier recommended (lamb + chicken) and he let me know that even if the owner doesn't restock the ziwipeak jerky for cats, that a special order can be placed for no additional charge.
Sounds good to me!
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Rubric: 5 = Mindblowing 4 = Excellent 3 = I see the charm 2 = Disappointing 1 = Never again
Cool place to find toys and treats for your pet. It's like a 7-Eleven for pets. It's alittle more expensive than Pet Club, but the selection just seems more unique than the ones found at other chain pet stores. So I come here mainly for toys and treats. Everything else I go to Pet Club.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the location is just so convenient.
I don't bring my dogs in here anymore because they over shop. Somehow a quick visit to say hello to owner Barbara or her daughter and to pick up a little treat ends up never being that way. The dogs love the baked/dried salmon skin rolls ... And, for such a small neighborhood pet store, they sure have a nice wide variety of stuff.
As pet stores go I wasn't impressed.
For me, that says a lot because I spend ridiculous amounts of money on Sancho the wonder dog and Mochi the amazing cat. However, I was MOST unimpressed by their lack of accepting coupons. It was my understanding that stores carrying the merchandise the coupon applies to HAVE to accept said coupon. Perhaps I am wrong and this just signifies poor customer service. Whatever the case, I was denied the use of my coupon for a free can of Merrick dog food; a higher end dog food that is mostly only carried in specialty pet boutiques...I find it odd to think that ALL of them are "too small" and "can't be bothered to send them in" as the guy at the register claimed was Citipets' problem.
They get one extra star for the Tiki Cat canned cat food I bought there for Mochi the amazing cat. Initially I only bought it because it had foods named for the Hawaiian and Polynesian Islands (I got Mochi in Hawaii when I lived there) but it has turned out to be her new favorite food and it seems to be quality. Too bad I will have to search for it elsewhere. I was too turned off with Citipets policies (and the fact that I had to ASK for my receipt) regarding coupons to return.
I enjoyed my visit to this store. I guess they're newly opened (last December) so that was neat to hear. I'm always game for new places to check out. The store had a lot of clothes and toys. I was thrilled about the sale room, but they did have a lot of products.
The manager was so helpful and friendly. I'll be a new dog owner so she was very open about sharing her experiences and giving some advice about different dog traits and some shelters that would be worthy to check out. I would have purchased something but I had just visited other pet stores and was getting a little tired. Another time!
A letter to the owners from my cat (with translation to follow);
Meow meow meow,
Meow meow meow meow meow meow meow moew. Meow meow meow meow meow meow meow? Meow meowwwww!!! Meow meow moew meow meow meow meow meow (meow meow meow), meow meow meow. Meow meow meow meow. Meow, meow meow meow meow, meow meow meow. Meow meow meow meow meow meow? Meow!!!!
Meow meow,
Meow (meow meow meow meow)
__________________________________________________
Dear very nice owners,
I would love your store if you carried more stuff for cats. My owner came home from your store and would you believe she didn't have anything for me? I mean, hellloooo!! She has wasted tons of money on toys I will never ever do anything other than scoff at (I look really cute when I do this), but she didn't come home with anything from your store. She just mumbled something about how I need to play more or go on a diet. Oh, and something about how if I was a dog I would have been hooked up with the cool stuff, because apparently you have a great selection of stupid dog stuff. How does this help me scoff at toys, and lay around being cute and spoiled? Sheesh!
Love always,
Autumn (though mommy calls me Big Bottom Autumn sometimes)
Barbara and Allison: YOU ROCK! These owners (mother-daughter team) are just great people. They L-O-V-E animals and have lots of experience with them. Going to the store has now become a weekly ritual. Sophie will go pick out a new toy or a treat, and spend some quality play time there. She loves Barbara and is CRAZY for Allison. She even gets jealous if she sees Allison plays with other dogs.
The store continues to grow as there is something new almost every week. Lots of toys to choose from for your dog and cat. The treats are great as they are hand selected based on their quality by the owners. The food selection is fantastic if you go for high quality brands. Lots of clothing/accessories to choose from. There is even a separate room just for small animals. If you can't find what you're looking for, it can most likely be special ordered for you. Some of the products they carry are actually requests from customers.
The first doggie social was last night. Lots of dogs and people were there. For gay pride, there were rainbow necklaces and cookies for dogs. There was a lot of food. Meze and cold cut platters, a variety of desserts, and lots of drinks, alcoholic and non. They even got Merlot Over and Play Dead from Mutt Lynch winery! Can't wait till the next one, which may be in August.
I LOVE this store. It's clean, friendly, and filled with fun merchandise. The prices are just as low as what you'd pay at chain stores, but the service is much better. The ladies who work here are super friendly and knowledgeable, especially when it comes to pet nutrition. The owner helped me find a healthier dog food (made right here in CA!) that would hopefully alleviate some of my doggie's digestive and skin problems. She also suggested several other brands in case her first choice was too expensive - and I appreciated that.
Every time I come to Citipets, I know I'll leave with a treat, toy or food that my puppy with adore. Glad to have them in West Portal!
UPDATE: I have upgraded Citipets to 5 stars! It has now been 8 months since I wrote the first review. We go to citipets every weekend with Sohie and Lulu, and they love every minute of it. Owners Barbara & Alison are amazing. The minute you walk in the door, they acknowledge you and your doggies, interrupting whatever they are doing to give them treats. They are extremely knowledgeable about all things pet related, and can recommend the best foods and products for your little ones.
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Welcome to the neighborhood Citipets! We've been waiting for a good pet store in this neighborhood where we could spoil our pooch Sophie. They have a great selection of toys and clothing for dogs, and the staff are extremely friendly. One of the owners actually got down on the floor to play with Sophie, having a little game of tug-o-war.
Go to Citipets! We love them.
In addition to operating this great store, they operate a dog walking and pet sitting business, and they've been so good to our pup Jackson, even with his sometimes challenging dog anxiety. (He's great with people.)
The store is awesome -- all kinds of cool and useful stuff for dogs, cats, and other furred and feathered creatures.
Support your local pet store!
Citipets is now my favorite pet store. Perhaps this is due to the fact that it is a mere 5 minute walk from my house, but I think it's mostly because Barbara, the owner, rocks so effing hard...My wife and I often marvel at the attitude exhibited by pet store workers: Yes, be nice to my dogs, but don't forget the dogs aren't buying this stuff. I prefer to spend my $$ in shops with good customer service, and Citipets is awesome. Barbara knew our dogs by the 2nd visit. She is helpful without being overbearing. She has a great selection, too. Clothes, beds, treats, food, all the usual pet store stuff. I love that they have raw foods available too, in a special freezer case. Nice.
And it's clean and bright and all that too...
Citipets gets 5 stars for both the store and the dog-walking service!
The store: clean, well-stocked, reasonably priced for an independent store, and easy to navigate. This is the first non-chain pet store that I've been to where you could actually move around without fear of knocking everything over.
The dog-walking: I first met Alison and Barbara at my favorite dog park (Upper Douglass Playground). Porter and I usually go around the time that Alison brings a particular group to the park, so when I needed a new dog-walker it was clear that she is the best out there. Her interactions with the dogs are unlike any other dog-walker: she's clearly the Alpha to her pack (Porter will first listen to her when we're there before me), and closely watches all of her dogs. Barbara is just like Alison (you can really tell that they're Mother-Daughter) and walks Porter while we're serving up wine at night---he ADORES her.
Be warned. Only come here if you want to go to a neighborhood store that really cares about your pet. Went in for a collar and after spending nearly an hour in the store, forgetting completely I had my dog there with me (who was being pampered with treats and almost put to sleep by the wonderful Alison). We walked away with a full lesson in dog food and even some free biscuits for pup. They even said to call if we had any questions about the food or needed help! Awesomeness
This new pet store is run by a family who has been involved in the local community for a number of years. They really know what they're doing when it comes to dogs, and genuinely love animals, and it shows. They carry quality products that they can feel good about selling, including some made by local or independent providers. Their prices are fair, especially on high-end dog food. The store is nicely laid out and a pleasure to shop in; the service is stellar.
I don't live in West Portal, but this is an easy stop on my way to take my dog to Fort Funston. Parking is much better than I ever would have predicted; I've never had a problem finding a spot within a few doors of this place.
OMG, my Fozzie is literally in dog heaven each time I buy him a toy or treat from here. He loves a good challenge thus I love shopping here for interesting toys. My latest round of purchase was a black stick that can be filled with kibbles on each end. When the stick hits the ground and bounces, WOOHOO it glows and he can try to chase the goodies that fall out. An interesting puzzle that keeps him occupied for hours is a soft square case with 4 soft insert able balls. He has hours of fun pulling out the different balls. The toys are durable and well made. The store may be small but there is a nice assortment to choose from. If I didn't already have enough collars I would have purchased a red leather collar with hearts. There are lots of neat unusual items here you'll have to check out for yourself.
It's all soooo worth it when your dog looks up from play to give you his approval; a great big wide open smile.
I would give this a place 5 stars if were open and friendly.
They just opened this past weekend...really cute pet store in West Portal
They have a good selection of cute unique doggie outfits for reasonable prices. They even have a raincoat for puppies! They have items/supplies for all types of pets..dogs, cats, fish, birds, and hamsters....
I was almost tempted to buy the sweaters with the rhinstone skull for my cats...(yeah, like my cats will like that!)
I got a couple of feather toys for my kitties instead.....
Great place. Finally, something in West Portal for dogs. The owners (a mother/daughter team) operate a pet walking and care biz, too. They know a great deal.
i appreciate that they are expanding their bird food section
+3 stars for the awesome cat toy assortment. My cat loves the duck/ribbon on a string, and their tiny mice are like real.
-2 stars because their food/litter is more expensive than my rent.
I love their assortment of bulk dog treats. It's hard not to step in and buy a bunch for our little furry man. I haven't had occasion to buy anything else there, but the store is organized nicely and the products are high-quality offerings.
I've been in a handful of times, but two of those times were late and I'm sure we managed to waltz in right at closing time. I guess I didn't realize our timing because we have never felt rushed. It's refreshing to feel welcomed at the end of the day. No hint of the stink-eye or feeling like the door is about to be locked.
5 stars for treats, 5 stars for service, but 4 stars because I really haven't had occasion to buy anything besides treats there (YET).
I absolutely love this store. Great items for dogs of all sizes. And you gotta love the owners and the employees!
So after brunch today at the neighborhood Squat and Gobble, we ventured into this quaint little pet store, and I must say, to our great surprise, we were greeted by this wonderful lady, asking us questions and directing us to certain products that may find that my little HIRO would enjoy. Please take note, this place has one of the extensive line of pet clothes that I was very much impressed, i didn't buy any cuz I wasn't in the market for one but as soon as I want to buy something for HIRO i found a new place to go buy his stuff. They have great selection of organic food and treats. Very affordable tooo!!!
We love Citipets, and Barbara and Alison. My dog starts hopping up and down and whining with anticipation the minute she sets foot on West Portal Avenue because she knows a) she's going to Citipets, b) she gets to see her beloved dog walker Barbara or Barbara's daughter Alison, c) she's probably going to get a free treat and a ball from Barbara, and d) if she's really really lucky she'll see another member of Barbara's pack since all the dog owners tend to hang out at the store all day on Saturdays and Sunday. Barbara is great. You know those teachers who love to stand around and indulge you with talk about how great your child is? No one else would listen, but you know the good teachers when they seem as interested in your offspring as you are. Well, Barbara is that way with our dog. And the dog would probably rather have Barbara as her mommy instead of me ...
Four stars for a great store with friendly staff. No snotty attitude here.
One star off for a new staff person unfamiliar with raw dog diet. But he was a sweet kid.
Glad to find this store. I will return for cute collars and trinkets! Thanks.
Citipets is my go-to shop for all of our doggie goodies and staples. My pooch Roscoe LOVES everyone who works there and knows when we're getting close on the ride over. Treat yourself and your pet to a trip over to see Allison and Barbara!
The staff here has been excellent over the past yearor so and i have become a repeat customer.
UPDATE: 6/28/08
I walked by here today and needed some food. It was closed but a sign on the door said be back soon. I was starting to walk away and someon came running up saying she would be RIGHT back to open... and she did. Super friendly, helpful and took time to give my pups some love. Thanks! I will come back again and see if it's as great again.
I recently moved to the neighbourhood and was happy to see a pet store there. I went in once without my puppy and service was OK...not overly friendly but you know sometimes these peopel love dogs more than people...and im actually ok with that. So next time i brought him in...he was sniffing around and peed . I actually didnt even notice as i was looking around but the girl at the counter ( and im NOT exagerating!) "OMG---I CAN'T BELIEVE YOUR DOG JUST PEED! HE'S SO CUTE HOW COULD HE DO THAT?????" WTF?She then threw paper towel and cleaner at me and looked at me like i had just killed someone. It's a friggen pet store---shit happens! (Literally too i suspect) If you can't deal with it maybe look for a different job? Not sure who she was but i am pretty sure it wasn't the owner...if it was they won't be there too long i suspect. I travel back to south beach to South Paw anytime i need pet supplies...who cares if this place is only 5 mins from me ...get over yourself! Maybe i'm spolied but Shireen and Suzie at South Paw ACTUALLY know they own a pet store ...and they know dogs pee in the store , fairly often...and i have don't have any issue cleaning it up but don't treat me like a leper.
They are absolutely awesome! They offer up solutions to issues you may be experiencing with your pet and they don't try and sell you anything. Much of your shopping experience is based on the items just selling themselves. From grooming wipes to a great selection of yummy pet food to toys that will challenge your furry friend, you will find it all at Citipets. They, seriously, care about BOTH you and your pet. Two paws up!!
My partner and I have been taking our French Bulldog puppy (Howie) to Citipets since the day we brought her home. She LOVES Allison and Barbara. We took their advice and started her on free range preservative-free food. Howie is now 17 weeks old and healthy and happy. We buy all her great toys to keep her busy and having fun from Citipets. They have the most comprehensive selection of toys, food (high grade), snacks, and cleaning products (most are natural/organic). The store is very clean and orderly.
Allison and Barbara are rare in that they have their business because of their love of dogs and all animals. It's wonderful to finally find a local business like this, with extremely experienced and sincerely loving animal owners. This mother-daughter team even provides a daycare, dog walking, and over night care service. However, they are careful not too take on too much since they want to provide the most love and attention to each client they take into their lives when it comes to dog walking and day care. The cost for their services and products are competitive with the larger dingy chains such as Petco. If you are looking for a place with great products, excellent service, dog expertise, and a sincere love of dogs/animals and not profits, you MUST at least visit and check it out for yourself. Our Howe is a Citipets devotee.
Allison & Barbara...you're the best!
Go see Barbara and Alison at Citipets. They love your dog more than you love your dog - I kid you not.
Plus, the store is clean, well stocked with both essentials and fun stuff, and a delightful neighborhood hang out for pets and their owners. My dog begs to go visit Citipets.
Alison is like a certified dog whisperer. She totally loves dogs and they love her. Will definitely do my business here.
This place is the best local-stop to pick up goodies for your pet! The prices aren't too shabby either. Even *I* can afford to pamper my dog. If you live in the area, this is a great spot to grab a few essentials.
I stopped in on a whim to pick up a collar for my big, sweet orange cat Oscar. The person who helped me seem hurried and annoyed. I don't think she was annoyed with me, just maybe was having a tough day. It can happen to anyone, of course. I didn't leave feeling that I'd either hurry back or avoid the place, either. Both Critter Fritters (Glen Park) and Noe Valley Pets are places I frequent, and will continue to do so.
I love this place.The food is cheaper than the big chain stores and the people who work here are so helpful. The young man particularly takes the time to explain about their products. Our new pups benefit from our frequent visits. I'm not a dog dresser, but if I was...this is the place.
