Questions, answered plainly
Eight questions in three groups: what the shop sells and what it will not do, how to get in touch, and the practical parts of a visit.
Service
What the shop sells, and what it will not do
Does the shop sell puppies or kittens?
No. Thistle & Tail Pet Supply has never sold cats or dogs and does not intend to. The livestock on the floor is freshwater fish, feeder insects and captive-bred reptiles from two local breeders, both of whom are named on request.
Are the consultation fees really credited back?
Yes, in full, against a purchase made on the same day, on all five of the paid services that say so. The bulk treat bar is priced by weight at $6.80 per kilogram and so has no fee to credit.
Can staff tell me what is wrong with my animal?
No. Nobody on the floor is a veterinarian and nobody will guess. Staff will say when something needs a vet, and would rather say it early than late.
Does the shop price-match?
No. The prices on the shelf are the prices. The shop would rather explain why a bag costs what it costs than pretend to beat a warehouse.
A question that is not on this page can go straight to the shop. The contact form sends it and books nothing. Send a question instead.
Contact
Getting in touch and what happens next
How are appointments booked?
Through the contact form on this site, or by telephone during opening hours. Each appointment has a named member of staff attached to it, and neither the form nor the Book link confirms a time by itself.
How quickly does the shop reply?
Messages sent during opening hours are usually answered the same day, and always within two working days. There is no out-of-hours service.
Practical
Delivery, returns and the rest
Does the shop deliver?
Locally, on Tuesday and Friday, within Bellingham and Ferndale. Delivery is free on orders over $60 and $7 under it, and Gus runs the round himself.
What is the returns position?
Unopened food and unused equipment come back within 30 days with the receipt. Opened food comes back if the animal refused it — that one is a judgement call, and staff make it in the customer’s favour.
A question about a food, a tank or a price
The contact form takes a question about a bag, a tank or a price and sends it to the shop. Book goes to the arrangements page; neither one confirms a time by itself.