“I should have called it the store with the cats in the window� joked Terry Threves, owner of Tails pet boutique, “because that’s what everyone knows us as.�

Threves is referring to the orphaned cats that she helps get adopted from the front of her shop in Downtown SLO—and the fact that her storefront sign used to be covered by tree branches. Three weeks ago, Tails opened its doors at a new location, and—thankfully—the cats are still there. The new shop is at 745 Higuera, just across the street from the old shop, though the new facility boasts some new features. The kitty window is still active, and now the cats can promenade the “Cat Track� that runs along the far wall while visiting pooches peruse the aisles.

Threves has been running Tails since she found a dog named Cleopatra in 1998. When she couldn’t find the proper products to suit Cleo’s fine tastes, she decided to open her own specialty store for the most-pampered pets. Tails still carries studded collars, doggie strollers, pet purses, natural pet food, life vests, and everything you never knew your pet needed. And Tails still has a heart. They can set you up with a pet that needs a home from animal services, and the staff can help with anything from finding the right food to picking out the perfect outfit. Stop by the new location at 745 Higuera or give them a call 544-7387.

Contributor Kylie Mendonca compiled this week’s Strokes & Plugs. Send your business news to [email protected].