Finding a place that actually knows your dog's name—or better yet, exactly which bale of orchard grass your rabbit prefers—is getting rare. In a world of automated checkout screens and "out of stock" notifications, Mike's Feed & Pet San Leandro CA feels like a stubborn, wonderful outlier. It is the kind of spot where the air smells like high-quality grain and cedar shavings. Honestly, if you live in the East Bay and keep anything from a parakeet to a backyard chicken, you've probably ended up here at least once.
Located at 685 E 14th St, this isn't just a shop; it’s a bit of a local institution. While the big-box retailers down the road offer convenience, Mike’s offers something the giants can't quite replicate: specialized knowledge and a deep inventory that caters to the "homesteading" side of San Leandro.
The Specifics of Mike's Feed & Pet San Leandro CA
Let's talk logistics because that's usually why people are searching for them. They sit right on East 14th, and if you're not looking, you might miss the scale of what's inside. It’s actually two buildings side-by-side. One side is basically the "animal house"—think birds, hamsters, and the supplies they need. The other side is the heavy lifting area.
What’s Actually on the Shelves?
Unlike the aisles of a supermarket pet section, the selection here is focused on health and utility. You'll find:
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- Premium Kibble: Brands like Fromm Family and other high-protein, low-filler options that you won't find at a standard grocery store.
- Small Animal Specialty: It's one of the few places in the area where you can consistently find specialized food for guinea pigs, chinchillas, and rabbits that isn't just colorful cardboard.
- Livestock & Poultry: This is where they really shine. If you’ve joined the "San Leandro chicken coop" movement, this is your hub for chick starter, layer crumbles, and heat lamps.
- The Wild Bird Corner: Huge bags of seed, suet cakes, and feeders for the local scrub jays and finches.
Service With a Real Handshake
Customer service here isn't a script. It’s a guy named Jerry or one of the other long-time staff members helping you figure out why your dog is itching or which hay is the least dusty this season. They have a reputation for carrying the heavy 40lb bags to your car without you even asking. That kind of thing doesn't happen at the self-checkout.
Why Locals Choose Mike's Over Big Box Chains
People in San Leandro are loyal. They're loyal because Mike's Feed & Pet San Leandro CA has survived the era of Amazon and PetSmart by being "the straw people." No, really. If you need a bale of straw for your garden or a bale of alfalfa for a goat, you don't go to a corporate pet store. You go here.
The "Hay" Situation
There was some chatter a while back about whether they were still doing full bales. As of late, they often require special orders for full hay bales, but they usually arrive fast. If you're a local rabbit owner, you know that the "compressed" bags at big stores are often dry and brown. The stuff at Mike's is usually much greener and more fragrant.
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The Grooming and Wellness Factor
It isn't just about the food. Many locals swear by the grooming services offered on-site. Specifically, Jerry the Groomer has a bit of a following. People mention his patience with "difficult" dogs—the ones that other shops might turn away.
Furthermore, they host VIP Petcare clinics. If you need a quick rabies shot or a heartworm test without the $150 "office visit" fee of a traditional vet, checking their schedule for these mobile clinics is a pro move. In 2026, these clinics are still a vital resource for affordable pet maintenance in the East Bay.
Navigating the Store: A First-Timer’s Guide
If you've never been, it can be a little overwhelming. The parking is... well, it's East 14th Street. It can be tight.
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- Check Both Buildings: Don't just walk into one and assume that’s it. The store is split by category.
- Ask for Recommendations: If you’re looking for a specific brand like Activa or specialized equine supplements, just ask. They often have stuff in the back or can order it.
- Check the Dates: They rotate stock well, but it’s always a good habit to check the "milled on" dates on the large livestock bags.
Real Talk: The Pros and Cons
Nothing is perfect. Let's be real.
The Good: The staff actually knows what they’re talking about. You won't get a blank stare when you ask about the protein content of a specific bird seed. The prices on bulk items are usually better than what you’ll find online once you factor in shipping.
The Not-So-Good: The hours are standard (usually 9:30 AM to 6 PM, with shorter hours on Sundays), so if you're a night owl, you're out of luck. Also, because it's an older building, it isn't the "polished" shopping experience some people expect. It’s a feed store. Expect a little dust.
Actionable Steps for Pet Owners
If you're planning a trip to Mike's Feed & Pet San Leandro CA, here is how to make the most of it:
- Call Ahead for Bulk: If you need more than two bales of anything or a specific high-end brand of horse feed, call (510) 638-2005. They can confirm it's in stock so you don't waste a trip.
- Bring Your Pet: They are pet-friendly, provided your animal is on a leash. It's a great way to socialize a puppy in a controlled, "new smell" environment.
- Inquire About the Loyalty Program: They often participate in programs like AstroLoyalty, where you can earn free bags of food after a certain number of purchases.
- Check the Clinic Schedule: Before paying for a full vet visit for a simple vaccination, see when the next VIP Petcare clinic is stopping by the 685 E 14th St location.
Supporting a business like Mike's is basically a vote for keeping San Leandro's character intact. It's one of those places that reminds you that we still live in a community, not just a zip code. Whether you're there for a single chew toy or a trunk full of chicken feed, you're getting a slice of East Bay history.