Claws & Paws Pet Store

Claws & Paws Pet Store in Pittsburg, Kansas has been a community staple for decades — some customers report over 20 years of loyal patronage — and the reason is simple: owner Dan and his team genuinely care about every animal that walks or swims out their door. While this is a full-service pet store carrying everything from frogs and guinea pigs to parakeets, snakes, and tarantulas, the freshwater fish selection consistently draws praise as one of the store's strongest offerings. Multiple reviewers specifically call out Claws & Paws as their exclusive source for fish and fish supplies.

What makes this shop stand out in a small-city market is the depth of hands-on guidance. One customer brought in a phone recording of their struggling fish tank and walked out with a clear plan to get things back on track. Another, new to the Pittsburg area, credits Dan with setting them up from scratch — tank, supplies, and practical advice to get their freshwater setup running right.

That kind of patient, judgment-free consultation is a recurring theme across hundreds of reviews. The store packs more inventory than its exterior suggests. Reviewers are consistently surprised by how much is inside, from a huge selection of freshwater fish to dry goods, pet food (reportedly competitive with Amazon subscription pricing on senior dog food), and supplies for reptiles, small mammals, and birds.

Everything is clean and well-organized, and the animals themselves are described as healthy and well cared for. Dan's personal presence is a major draw. He's mentioned by name in review after review — not as a distant owner, but as someone on the floor answering questions and making recommendations.

The rest of the staff follows suit, offering informed, courteous help without pressuring customers. 8-star reputation the old-fashioned way: one knowledgeable conversation at a time.