Sandy's Pet Shop has been a Louisville institution for decades, earning the loyalty of fish keepers who return year after year — some for close to 20 years. " Their African cichlids, South American cichlids including Oscars and Blue Parrots, and shrimp collections draw hobbyists from across the region — and apparently from as far as North Carolina. The tanks here are consistently described as clean and disease-free, with clear water and healthy, vibrant fish.
That level of care extends to their live plant selection, which rivals dedicated planted-tank shops. They also carry a strong assortment of aquarium supplies and equipment, including 90-gallon tanks and products like Seachem Stability. One particularly clever offering: used filter media for customers struggling to cycle new tanks, a practical solution that one reviewer said accomplished in two days what weeks of bottled bacteria couldn't.
Free water testing is a standout service, and the staff backs it up with genuine consultation. Employees like Tori, Nick, and Orville are called out by name for their patience and depth of knowledge — Tori in particular has earned a devoted following for taking extended time with customers to walk through care requirements, whether for fish, leopard geckos, ferrets, or corn snakes. The shop also carries birds, reptiles, and small pets, though aquariums remain the clear heartbeat of the operation.
Prices are described as reasonable to slightly premium, but customers consistently note you're paying for quality — healthy livestock, clean facilities, and advice that actually works. For Louisville's aquarium community, Sandy's isn't just a store; it's the local knowledge base that has guided hobbyists through their best and worst fish-keeping moments.
David Mulhall
Had to drop by during the bad weather recently & it was a great experience. The staff was excellent - Nick in particular was knowledgable and patient when helping me. Cannot recommend enough!
Rose Perkins
2 reviews
Love the place but have my oldest kids went in the with their animals and some guy that works there by the name of nick was very rude to them saying that they don’t know anything about they animals I would like u all to do something about him they say every time they can in he is rude and nasty to them they was just in the Lee and come home and told me this
Treasure Monk
28 reviews
I Was here from NC, decided to drop In , this has to be the most amazing, beautiful pet store I’ve ever seen in my 54 years! The Fish, plants are especially spectacular!! All of the employees are so super nice and friendly! All the animals have clean healthy living spaces, ! Wonderful place!
Matthew Dempster (DJIJoeFPV)
6 reviews
Great local place to get saltwater fish
Zach Lanham
8 reviews
I go to pet shop for all my freshwater needs
Shanna Ranney
150 reviews
Staff was super kind to my little grandsons as we were just looking
Judd Porter
90 reviews
They carry quality products and a wide variety of fish. Their main focus definitely is aquarium.s and fish, although they have some small pets and birds. The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful. They one of, if not the only locally owned single location pet stores in Louisville. There's another excellent example across the river in Indiana, but I'll leave a separate review for them.
SS Notary Public - Mobile Notary Stacey Sweeney
2 reviews
Amazing pet shop! All the staff is very knowledgeable and friendly
Tim Donan
341 reviews
Had the answers for me. Very knowledgeable staff
Amber Jecker
First time in the store this evening and had the BEST experience! Tori was absolutely amazing. She took over an hour to help explain everything to us and our daughter about what it takes to take care of a leopard gecko and everything we’d need… she wasn’t just trying to make a sale, you could tell she genuinely cares for the animals as well as the customers! 5 stars for Sandy’s Pet Shop and 10 stars for Tori!!!
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (502) 636-2743 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Sandy's Pet Shop.
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1421 Hess Ln, Louisville, KY 40217
February 7, 2026
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