Where are the best pet shops in Canberra? Photo: File.
Every pet owner wants the absolute best for their furry friends from the healthiest food, to the most entertaining toys, to experienced medical care, and the best grooming. If it means the difference between a happy, healthy pet and an unwell one, then providing the best care is the least pet owners can do to repay their companions for the buckets of love they give back. Canberra’s pet stores and pet supply shops are here to help you find the best care available for your pet!
Whether purchasing pet care supplies or looking for a new furry friend to add to your family, your one-stop-shop for all things pet-related is the local pet shop and pet supply store. Different species and breeds have different needs, and the very best pet shops and pet supply stores cater to a wide variety of pets. Poor pet stores have a small range of products and services, and staff tend to be inexperienced and lack passion.
To help you avoid the bad, we’ve come up with this list of the top five pet shops in the Canberra region. We’ve done our research and consulted local knowledge, so you can rest easy knowing your precious animal is in safe hands.
What makes a great pet shop?
Our pets are a part of our family, and they deserve nothing but the very best. When looking for a great pet shop, keep an eye out for the following positive traits.
- Range. From food and toys to treats and accessories, the best pet shops and supply stores in Canberra have a huge range of quality products.
- Additional services. As well as their products, the greatest pet shops and supply stores offer a variety of additional services. This may include grooming, nail clipping, veterinary services, puppy training school and rescue adoption.
- Passion. Animal lovers make the best pet shop and pet supply store staff. A true passion for creatures great and small results in compassion, respect, and a friendly attitude.
- Experience. As well as being passionate, the best pet shops and supply stores have staff with years of experience. They can answer all of your tricky questions, and help you give your animal the best possible life.
- Competitive pricing. Like any shop, your go-to pet shop should be priced competitively. Being one of Australia’s most pet-friendly cities, Canberra is well supplied for pet shops and pet supply stores, so make sure you compare your options.
The best pet shops and pet supplies in Canberra
RiotACT’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on RiotACT and maintain a minimum average of 4/5 stars on both Google and Facebook reviews.
Belco Pets
Belco Pets is an ethical and independently family owned pet shop in Belconnen. Drew and his family have over 20 years experience in the pet industry and continue to give back to the community by raising awareness and supporting local animal rescue groups.
Google reviewer Christine Morrison had this to say about their experience with Belco Pets, "Highly recommended!! Honest and well researched advice. Great range of good products reasonably priced. Fantastic customer service, great with the animals. More stores like this family run business, please."
Canberra Marine
Since 2012 Andrew has been spreading his knowledge about fish. Coral and tank set up to Canberrans and anyone who will listen. He’s honesty is highly regarded by his new and loyal customers. Andrew also gives great service for a fair price.
Google reviewer Tegan Rigoll writes, "Great prices and range, staff were extremely helpful. Will definitely return."
Best Friends Fyshwick
Best Friends Fyshwick store manager Ben is always on hand to help out with queries about your pets diet, grooming, exercise or veterinary needs. He’s also enthusiastic about the puppy preschool and a cat adoption program. Ben is always keen for customer feedback and appreciates the help he receives in improving the store.
Google reviewer Xenon Masters says, "Great range of premium products, better than other pet stores and they often have sales so I can get them cheaper. Good staff. Very helpful."
There’s a lot that comes with providing the best care for your pet. Check out our articles on the best dog groomers, best vets, best emergency and after-hours vets, best pet desexing and the best pet insurance for more helpful information on Canberra’s best pet services.
Or, if you’re after services to look after your pet, check out our articles on the best dog walkers and pet sitters, best doggy daycares and best dog boarding kennels and catteries in Canberra.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a new pet, our article on the best place for rescue dogs in Canberra may be of help.
Your experience with pet shops and pet supplies in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback, if you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the pet shops and pet supplies listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy from pet shops online?
Absolutely. All pet shops should have online stores and delivery services for your convenience. Especially in the age of COVID-19 when going in-store may not be an option for you, pet shops are taking measures to ensure the safety of their customers.
How do I know what food to buy for my pet?
There is a wide variety of vet-recommended pet food for all kinds of animals - dogs, cats, birds, fish, you name it. Choosing the right one is crucial for the health of your pet. For dogs and cats, you need to consider factors like the breed, the size and weight, and the age of your pet. To make sure you're making the right decision, consult with the staff in your pet supply store, ask your vet, and most importantly - make sure your pet is enjoying their food!
Do I need to do anything to protect my pet from COVID-19?
According to the latest updates from Greencross Vets, there is no current concern that animals are vulnerable to COVID-19. However, if you are concerned about how social distancing impacts your pet, check in with your vet and local pet supply store for any updates. In the meantime, maybe try keeping your cats from roaming the streets, and walking your dogs during times when there are fewer people you might meet in public. In any case, rest assured that your pet is not at risk!
How do I know if my local pet store is ethical?
If you are buying your pet from a pet store and are committed to shopping ethically, then ask the staff as many questions as you can. Find out where the pet has come from, its medical history, if its already microchipped, and any behavioural information they might have. Transparency is the biggest indicator of ethical practice - if your pet store is able to provide you with comprehensive information on your new pet, and all of the information is properly certified, then you can rest assured that you have made an ethical purchase.
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