Pet Shop

Pet Shop covers the specialist shops for companion animals, physical and local-pickup, that sell food, care items and accessories for dogs, cats, rodents, birds, fish and reptiles. A well-stocked pet shop covers dry and wet food by age group and need, special diets on the vet's recommendation, litter and bedding, beds, carriers, leads, harnesses and collars, toys, over-the-counter parasite products, aquarium and terrarium supplies, and often an advice corner where staff help you choose.

An owner goes to a pet shop for recurring purchases, the bag of food, the litter, the spot-on pipettes, but also for one-off situations: the first set of accessories for a puppy, a carrier for a trip, a hard-wearing toy for a dog that destroys everything, or switching to a new food with advice on a gradual transition. A shop with knowledgeable staff saves many failed attempts and money wasted on unsuitable products.

When you choose a shop, check the variety and freshness of stock, whether the expiry dates are sound, whether staff know the products and ask questions before recommending, whether it consistently carries the brands and diets you need, and how a return is handled if the animal refuses a new range. Compare prices on the items you buy often, because the differences add up over a year, and ask about ordering for items that are not always in stock.

When you change the food range, make the switch gradually over at least a week, mixing in more and more of the new food, and ask staff to note down exactly the product and pack size you bought, so you can easily repeat the same order. For medical problems, a pet shop is not a substitute for the vet's advice, especially when choosing parasite products and therapeutic diets.

Use this directory to find pet shops in your city, compare the range and reviews, and open each shop's page for the address, hours and contact details before going.