About
Tucked along the Overseas Highway in Key Largo, Keys Kritters is the kind of independently owned pet store that earns fierce loyalty from locals who drive an hour just to shop there. While it's technically a full-service pet store — carrying everything from high-quality dog food brands like Canidae, Stella and Chewy, and Primal to reptile supplies and singing canaries — the aquarium section is what stops fish hobbyists in their tracks. The store is packed with tanks of notably healthy fish spanning both freshwater and saltwater species, and reviewers consistently remark on the absence of dead fish and the obvious care given to every animal in the shop, right down to the humble goldfish.
One customer who made the hour-long drive home reported their fish were meticulously packed with individual bags, plenty of oxygen, and a Styrofoam box for the trip — arriving calm, alert, and eating well. The saltwater side is particularly impressive for a Keys pet shop, stocking live corals and carrying Red Sea test kits that reviewers note are unavailable anywhere else in the island chain. Owner Robert and his team have built a reputation for patient, knowledgeable guidance.
First-time saltwater keepers describe bringing "a thousand questions" and getting thoughtful answers every time. Staff members are equally comfortable discussing tank maintenance strategies, recommending live plants, or helping someone pick out the right food for an aging dog. The store itself has an old-school charm — one reviewer compared the dense, packed layout to a classic hardware store — with birds chirping in the background and small animals like guinea pigs, rabbits, and bearded dragons adding to the lively atmosphere.
Keys Kritters has become a ritual stop for families traveling between Marathon and Miami, and for Upper Keys residents, it's simply the go-to destination for anything pet-related. The tiki-shaded exterior and relaxed Keys vibe only add to the appeal.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Consultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Stocks live corals and Red Sea test kits — the only source in the Keys
- Exceptionally healthy fish with careful packing for long transport home
- Knowledgeable owner Robert and staff offer patient saltwater and freshwater guidance
- Premium pet food brands including Canidae, Stella and Chewy, and Primal
- Wide variety of live animals including fish, birds, reptiles, and kittens for adoption
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Such great selection and very healthy fish!”
— Summer Combs5.0a month ago“Nice staff. Reasonable prices”
— Colleen Coy4.0a month ago“What a fun place! Great variety and friendly/helpful staff. Stop by and say hi to Felix”
— Jeremy Grimes5.0a month ago“Genial”
— Maribel Diaz Gonzalez5.02 months ago“I've driven passed this place hundreds of times and never stopped, but today I did. It's awesome! It's truly a one-stop-shop for your pets. I was impressed the selection of products. Staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Whether you are a local or just driving through make sure to stop. You might even take home a new family member. 🐠 🦜 🐈”
— Armando Rodriguez5.03 months ago“Rob and company are always so helpful and knowledgeable.”
— Terri Petrillo5.03 months ago“Best pet shop in the Keys. Friendly, helpful staff…well stocked. Over the years, anytime my family had to make a trip to Miami from Marathon for doctors, shopping, etc, Keys Kritters was almost always on our list of “must-go-to” stops during the journey.”
— Louis LaPointe5.04 months ago“The place is unbelievable. So many tanks of fish.”
— Ken Hess5.06 months ago“Great local pet store. They have something for every pet, and also have some smaller animals for sale such as birds, fish, reptiles, and more. They carry high quality foods, so you are not going to find meowmix here. We stop by whenever we can to grab a bag of pig ears for the doggo.”
— Jay Rivett5.06 months ago“Super helpful”
— Cody McDaniel5.07 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (305) 451-2627 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Keys Kritters.