Pawtrero: The Healthiest Pet Store in San Francisco

In an effort to build a stronger community within the pet care space, welcome to our monthly showcasing of locally-owned and operated pet care companies!

Don’t have enough time to thoroughly research what is in your pet’s food? No worries! The dynamic duo that started Pawtrero does all the research for you.

A chance encounter at a dog park back in 2000 led the Pawtrero owners, Suzie and Shireen, to discuss their dogs’ health issues and diet. With the desire to ensure their dogs’ long-lasting health, they began to research alternative foods that would be easier for their dogs to process. When they first started this journey, they enlisted the help of a holistic vet in Pacifica; who now relies on the ladies of Pawtrero to provide healthy food recommendations for their practice.

What differentiates Pawtrero from other pet stores in the city is that they are especially particular about the products they carry. They do extensive research into the manufacturers, where their proteins are sourced and aim to also source products from local brands. Shopping at Pawtrero doesn’t take much thought – you know that whatever goes into your basket is of the highest and healthiest quality, and that you’re supporting local businesses as well!

We recently visited Pawtrero to interview Suzie. Enjoy our questions and her responses below. (The ideas expressed in this interview belong to Suzie and are not necessarily reflective of Pet Camp’s views.)

Q: What are your personal favorite products in store?

A: The raw foods including brands like Raw Bistro, Green Juju and Bones & Co.. The Fluff and Tuff toys are also great because of thick and durable mesh liner that is harder for dogs to tear through. Some of the Tall Tails toys have a rope inside so once your dog does work through the plush, you get a second toy to play with.

Q: What are some fan favorite products?

A: Wiley’s Treats are super popular among shoppers here. We have been working with Greg, the owner of EcoPawz for over 15 years. The raw bar chews, especially the bully sticks, are best sellers too.

Q: What are some facts about pet health that aren’t commonly known that you want to share with the community?

A: Many people think kibble helps to clean their dogs and cats teeth, but that is a fallacy. It actually creates more tartar than a raw or gently cooked diet. It’s also healthier if you rotate your pet’s food. Doing this helps build their immune system and also keeps them from getting bored. If they eat the same thing consistently, they may eventually become allergic to it.

Q: How has Pawtrero served the community?

A: Prior to the pandemic, we used to shut down the street to host a fair to raise money for the over 30 rescues including Muttville Senior Dog Rescue. We also have a food drive for Muttville and Toni’s Kitty Rescue every year during the holidays. Since 2002 we have been a part of  Farley’s Halloween pet parade and costume party. It’s always fun to see homemade costumes not only for cats and dogs, but lizards, bunnies, and kids (😜) too!

Give Pawtrero a visit and let them know your friends at Pet Camp sent you. Your pet will thank you for all of the treats you end up bringing home!

Are you a locally-owned pet care business? We are working toward building a stronger community in the San Francisco pet care space. Reach out to become part of our monthly features!

Thanks for reading!


Pet Camp is proud to be San Francisco’s most award winning pet care facility.  If you are a pet parent in need of overnight care for your dog or cat, doggie day care, dog training, bathing or pet transportation give us a call and speak with a counselor.

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