Slither & Swim sits at Phipps Plaza in West Haven, Connecticut, serving as a combination tropical fish and reptile shop that draws customers from well beyond the immediate area — some driving over an hour and a half each way to pick up specific animals. The store stocks a broad selection of freshwater fish alongside reptiles and live feed, with supplies and equipment to match. On the aquarium side, staff members are willing to walk customers through equipment purchases, helping them choose the right filter or gear for their setup.
The store also offers boarding services, a relatively uncommon perk in the pet retail world. Prices are described as reasonable, and the selection of live animals is notably diverse for a shop of this size. It should be noted, however, that Slither & Swim's reputation is complicated.
While many customers praise the friendly, patient staff and healthy fish, the store has drawn serious criticism regarding the condition of some of its reptile enclosures. Multiple reviewers have raised concerns about mite infestations and inadequate husbandry for certain snakes, including reports of unclean enclosures and animals in poor health. The owner has acknowledged the mite issue and indicated steps were being taken, but these complaints are persistent enough to warrant attention from prospective reptile buyers.
For freshwater fishkeepers in the West Haven area, the store offers a convenient local option with hands-on help from staff who know their products. Customers looking specifically for fish, aquarium equipment, or live feed have generally reported positive experiences. The store's dual focus on fish and reptiles gives it an unusual character — it's part aquarium shop, part herp house — and for those primarily interested in the aquatic side, the selection and service have earned loyal repeat visitors.
Just go in with open eyes and ask questions about the health history of any animal you're considering.
Tyler Reid
6 reviews
Everything was infested with mites when I went months ago, it appears they still are. Terrible neglect. The snakes were also on the wrong substrates. Horrible place. Don't shop here.
Stegs
21 reviews
The severity of the neglect and mite infestation here is alarming. There is clear evidence there has been an issue for months. Infested animals are still listed for sale. They don't have enough water to submerge their body to fight the mites. Two boas have severe swelling on their faces with nose damage, indicating infection. One is nearing deathly levels of underweight. Their enclosure is LITTERED with waste, an alarming fact given how infrequently they use the bathroom (if we went so long between peeing we'd pop!). Literally nothing here is valuable enough to enter this building and risk bringing an infestation to you and your pets. When the owner spoke to me in the parking lot he was incredibly dismissive "we're doing everything we can about the mites, come back in two weeks and it'll be better ". He was somehow unaware of the massive growth on one of the boas. He implied there was veterinary care involved for at least one but I do not know if that is true or if he is following their recommendations. No vet would allow this level of squalor. I'd have seen more but I hurried home to decontaminate and cry for the well being of these poor animals. Please never come here.
Abigail Ray
3 reviews
I called this store on Monday inquiring about a pacman frog which I got a lead on Facebook about. The guy on the phone was very kind and patient. Today I went to pick the little guy up, drove an hour and a half both ways to get him. The store smelt like a pet store, nothing too overwhelming. Great selection of animals. The staff were kind and patient. Would definitely drive the hour and a half both ways to visit again! Thanks guys!
Jaime Diaz
3 reviews
Love the snakes
John Mazur
15 reviews
Healthy fish and animals.
Joseph Janiga
241 reviews
Bought a new filter for my fish tank with the help of a knowledgeable staff member. Very satisfied!!!
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (203) 932-9436 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Slither & Swim.
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38 Saw Mill Rd #16, West Haven, CT 06516
February 7, 2026
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