01
Boarding
Over 30 years boarding birds, small mammals, and reptiles. We care for your animals like we do our own — fresh food, daily checks, expert hands only.
Reserve a spotEst. 1987 · San Francisco, California
Where every
animal
is family.
San Francisco's largest independent pet store. Not your typical pet shop — we are lifelong animal lovers who carry premium supplies, board and groom small animals, rescue pets in need, and have called Irving Street home for nearly four decades.
"To us, each pet is unique and is family, so we strive to find the perfect fit between people and their pets."
The Animal Connection
Who we are
SF's largest
independent pet store
Since 1987 we have been the city's go-to for expert animal advice, premium pet diets, and genuine care. Our staff doesn't just work with animals — they live with them, advocate for them, and know them.
We do not sell dogs, cats, or rabbits and always suggest adoption. We do not support breeding mills. We work closely with rescue organisations and responsible local breeders to save as many animals as we can.
Come in and feel the difference a truly independent, animal-first store makes.
What we do
Expert care,
every day
02
Grooming
Nail trims, wing clips, and more for birds, guinea pigs, and rabbits. Quick, calm, and carried out only by our trained staff — never rushed, always careful.
See grooming fees03
Surrender
No longer able to care for a pet? We accept most small animals with no surrender fee. We know it's a big decision — we'll be here whenever you're ready.
Learn moreCommunity
Pet Food Bank — free food for pets in need
Handfed · 2025
🦜
Featured programme
Handfed
Baby Budgie Programme
The Budgerigar — "budgie" — is a small parrot from Australia with one of the largest speech capabilities of any bird its size. They make great companions for all kinds of people, including children. After we finish hand-feeding them, they're sweet, playful, curious birds that genuinely bond with their humans.
They're one of the only birds we recommend for kids — and one of our greatest joys.
Ask about availabilityWe accept donations
Greens for
small mammals
Donate fresh produce and we'll feed our rescues. Leftovers go to local shelters. Here's what helps — and what doesn't.
✓ Acceptable produce
- Romaine, Red & Green leaf lettuce
- Dandelion Greens
- Carrot Tops
- Chard (swiss or rainbow)
- Wheatgrass
- Mustard Greens
✕ Please avoid
- Iceberg lettuce
- Cucumber
- Tomato
- Celery
- Broccoli
- Avocado
- Potato
We also accept pet food (opened or recently expired), clean towels, used tanks and cages, substrate, decor, and food bowls — all go to animals in need.
From the community
Animal lovers
recommend
"The staff truly cares about my pets' health and happiness. Their advice over the years for my dog, cats, gecko and boa constrictor ensured my family cared for our pets responsibly and with confidence."
— Rob S.
"The best local pet shop a pet mom could ever ask for! Always something new and fun to bring home. An all around excellent place with an old-timey feel to it. Grateful to lean on their expert staff. A true staple of the community!"
— Maria R.
"The staff really know their stuff! I'm so happy to find a local pet shop where I feel welcome — and so does my dog Tripper. We've been shopping at the AC for over 5 years. They have great prices and are the real deal!"
— Michelle B.
Find us
Come say
hello
The Animal Connection
3401 Irving St., San Francisco, CA 94122
(Southwest corner of 35th Avenue)
Tel 415-564-6482
SMS 415-275-1139
Email animalconnectionsf@gmail.com
Hours
Monday – Saturday 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Special holiday hours apply
Send us a message