About
Walking into Pet Expo in Mankato, Minnesota, feels like stepping into the kind of independently owned pet store that most people thought disappeared decades ago. With over 20,000 items spread across a sprawling, meticulously organized layout, this locally owned shop has become the definitive destination for pet owners across southern Minnesota. The aquatics section deserves special attention.
Separate rooms house tropical freshwater and saltwater fish, creating what one reviewer aptly called a "fish tank grotto" — a magical alcove packed with cichlids, koi, and assorted aquatic creatures. The store quarantines new fish shipments before putting them up for sale, and staff will special order specific species you can't find on the floor. Tanks are kept clean, fish appear healthy, and the cichlid selection in particular draws attention, even if some tanks run a bit crowded.
Outside, a koi pond greets visitors near the entrance, a touchstone that dogs and kids seem to gravitate toward on every visit. Beyond aquatics, Pet Expo stocks an enormous range of dog, cat, bird, and small animal supplies — from premium and specialty pet foods to kennels, toys, grooming products, and even bagged peanuts for feeding wildlife. Their grooming services have earned loyal followings, with groomers like Gina building personal relationships with four-legged regulars.
The store also offers nail trims with a refreshingly practical approach to documentation. Staff members like Kailee and Ava P. are frequently called out by name in reviews for their product knowledge, particularly around dietary needs for sensitive stomachs or senior pets.
The store's price-match policy and regular deals make it competitive with big-box chains, while the locally owned character and genuine animal care set it apart. Cages are clean, bedding is fresh, and every department feels tended by people who actually care about the animals in their charge. Pet Expo is the rare store where you walk in for dog food and leave an hour later having visited snakes, admired koi, and discovered something new.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Separate dedicated rooms for freshwater and saltwater tropical fish
- Quarantines new fish shipments before selling
- Special ordering available for specific fish species
- Outdoor koi pond near the entrance
- Locally owned with over 20,000 pet products in stock
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Great place for animal shopping wonderful and helpful employees”
— roneka lewis5.0a week ago“My husband and I brought our dog to pet smart to get his nails trimmed The kid behind the counter asked if we had his papers for his up today rabies shot. I said no we forgot it at home but he dose have up-to-date tag on his collar. He said we need the paper. So we left and went to pet Expo I went in and asked if they could do a nail trim. She said yes as long he has his tag on his collar. She did a amazing job.”
— Karen Reed5.02 weeks ago“Love this place! Too many reasons to listen, but unmatched variety of products amd services, gorgeous critters to visit or adopt. Very clean organized and the staff is stellar! The only place I go for the products and services that truly matter for my pets.”
— Jewels Gems5.03 weeks ago“I always go here for my food supply for my animals. Thank you.”
— AJay5.03 weeks ago“Clean, a little expensive, some of the cichlids were definitely over crowded, but they looked healthy. Someone else said this place is like Walmart for pets. They aren't totally correct, but it's not a bad analogy either...”
— jake doudney4.0a month ago“Very nice alternative to chain stores. Friendly staff, very nice separate rooms for tropical fish, both fresh and saltwater. Had what I needed on my quick stop in. Unfortunately, I wasn't there long enough to check out the nonaquatic areas. Next time.”
— Mike Hanson5.0a month ago“They have everything. Always good deals.”
— Dustin Williams5.0a month ago“My favorite pet store! They have everything you need there and then some!”
— Ashley Stanley5.0a month ago“The Pet Expo has EVERYTHING you need for your pet and even bagged peanuts if you feed the wildlife. The fish tank grotto is magical, containing many types of fish and aquatic creatures for aquariums. They have small animals for sale and a wide range of food, treats, toys, etc. They have gift cards and grooming services, too. The staff are very helpful!”
— E C5.0a month ago“Our go to place for pet supplies. Good selection and friendly staff. It's nice to have a locally owned store for supplies.”
— P Dub5.0a month ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (507) 625-2505 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Pet Expo - Mankato.