About Us
DogTales is made up of a select group of experienced professionals who are also lifelong animal lovers
and pet guardians. We understand that your pet is a valued member of your family and deserves the
highest level of care and treatment. As a result, DogTales is committed to providing superior service to
both pets and their guardians, utilizing positive, reward-based techniques in all that we do.
Click here to read testimonials for Dog Tales
Deborah Deegan, CDW
I first fell in love with animals as a girl growing up in Maine, and while I've worked successfully in many fields, I always thought something was missing. It wasn't until I was rescued by my dog Tucker, who was found in a trash can, that I began to realize that my lifelong passion for animals could also become my livelihood. As a result, I founded Dog Tales in October of 2002 to offer personalized services to fulfill the needs of pets and their guardians. From private walks to play groups for dogs, and in-home pet sitting for dogs and cats, pets receive love and attention in a safe and caring environment. DogTales is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured San Francisco business.
I am a graduate of dogTEC's exclusive program, where I was certified as a professional dog walker. I am also a member of SF Dog, San Francisco Professional Dog Walkers Association and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. I am certified by both the American Red Cross and Pet Tech in Pet First Aid and CPR. In addition, I am a graduate of the Canine Instructor Training Academy offered through the Marin Humane Society and taught by behaviorist Trish King. I continually update my knowledge of companion animal behavior by participating in workshops, seminars and readings.
Click here to see a list of selected Conferences, Seminars and Workshops that I have attended.
Crystal "the cat whisperer" Mason
I've known Deborah for 16 years and have been working for Dog Tales since 2004. My family was constantly adopting dogs during my childhood, and as an adult I have always had dogs and cats in my life. I recently completed the Pet Tech Pet First Aid course, and am currently volunteering at the SFSPCA as a dog handler, readying the dogs there for adoption.
Sarah
Growing up in Hawaii, there were lots of animals in my family. I always had dogs to go on adventures with, or a new litter of kittens to play with, not to mention a few chickens and horses. I've been working with Dog Tales since 2003 and I especially enjoy the one-on-one time I spend with dogs that can't go out in a group.
Ewa
I wasn't always familiar with our neighbors growing up, but I can still remember the name of every dog for miles around. When I was 12 I saved up the small allowance I got from my grandmother (for what seemed like an eternity) in order to buy "The Encyclopedia of Animals", which I studied with great determination. I have been working for Dog Tales since 2006, but worked for years before that as a pet-sitter and dog walker in New York City.
Bruce Dal Santo
I have been fortunate enough to live in San Francisco for close to 40 years now and all but the first two years I've had the delightful task of sharing my life with some marvelous dogs. First there was San Andreas, a Lab mix, then Wellington, a pure breed Lab whose grandfather was the legendary "Ballpark Frank", 6 times consecutive national field champion, and finally a beautiful Australian Shepherd named Brownie who lived with me and wellington for 17 years. So I have been around dogs for a long time and have loved every minute of it. Because of all of the above I have know Deborah for a long time as we have had frequent long conversations in the dog park. I was delighted at the opportunity to begin working for Deborah after having been self-employed for over 25 years. Looking forward to meeting you on the dog trails all over this glorious city. Also, I was recently certified by Pet Tech in Pet First Aid and CPR.