Creation Pet

Creation Pet in Woodstock, Georgia is a family-owned shop run by Phil and his team that has built a loyal following over more than a decade. At its heart, this is a freshwater-focused store with a strong selection of fish, live plants, and shrimp, though they also carry saltwater livestock including corals and frags. Reviewers consistently praise the staff — Phil and Teja get regular shout-outs — for their patience and willingness to spend real time walking customers through tank setup, water chemistry, and stocking choices.

One of Creation Pet's standout features is their aquascaping studio, which fans describe as "awesome" and a draw for planted tank enthusiasts looking for hardscape materials and creative inspiration. The store also stocks a decent range of dry goods for freshwater setups and herp keepers, and they maintain a small reptile section. Cichlid keepers have found what they need here, and oddball fish hunters consider it a go-to destination for species they can't find at big box stores.

Water testing is a popular service — customers regularly bring in samples and receive detailed feedback on tank conditions and treatment recommendations. The staff's approach leans educational rather than sales-driven, which newer hobbyists appreciate. Multiple reviewers mention feeling comfortable asking questions without judgment, even as total beginners setting up their first tanks.

That said, recent reviews paint a more complicated picture. Some long-time customers have noted a decline in livestock quality, with reports of offline tanks, limited saltwater selection, and inventory that doesn't match what the store once offered. A few visitors have flagged cleanliness concerns and inconsistent customer service, particularly when the owner is manning the floor.

Pricing on certain items — like shrimp and aquatic plants — has also drawn criticism. Creation Pet clearly has deep roots in the Woodstock aquarium community and a core staff that genuinely cares about fishkeeping. For freshwater hobbyists especially, the combination of healthy livestock, knowledgeable guidance, and that aquascaping studio makes it worth the visit.