The Animal Company has been a Noe Valley staple for more than 40 years, but my connection to it began at 14, when I purchased my first parrot. Today, I own a Sun Conure named Cosmos, whose vivid orange, yellow, green, and blue feathers reflect the careful guidance I received from the shop early on.
Rick and Ellen French have operated the store since 2001. In an interview, Rick explained what distinguishes the small corner shop from larger retailers: “The birds make our store unique, and also the education we provide.” When I brought home my first parrot in 2020, the staff walked me through essential information—diet, enrichment, and early training—support that can be hard to find elsewhere.
Their emphasis on quality and safety is clear. The Frenches carefully select trusted breeders, a process Rick notes has become more challenging as long-time breeders retire. In previous years, the couple bred many of the birds themselves. The result is evident: the shop’s birds are consistently healthy, alert, and well-socialized, all crucial factors for anyone considering an exotic pet.
Despite its specialization, the Animal Company remains welcoming to casual visitors. Many locals stop by simply to interact with the parrots, drawn in by their bright colors and curious personalities. For prospective bird owners, the staff provides practical guidance, and prices vary depending on the species. They also stress the responsibilities involved, reminding customers that birds require informed and attentive care.
As Rick summed it up, birds make exceptional companions because “they’re adaptable, smart, fun—and you don’t have to walk them.”
4102 24th St, San Francisco, CA 94114
Monday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Edited by Camille Ng.
