About
9 rating from its loyal customers. While this store focuses primarily on pet food, treats, and toys — particularly for dogs — it has carved out a devoted following in the Brainerd Lakes area thanks to owner Carey's genuine warmth and dedication to her four-legged visitors. Multiple reviewers note that their dogs love walking through the door, where they're greeted with treats (sometimes three at a time) and a welcoming atmosphere that puts anxious pups at ease.
One visitor discovered the shop while staying at a nearby family cabin and found calming treats and chew toys that helped their stressed dog settle in — a testament to the store's thoughtfully curated inventory. The selection balances unique, hard-to-find products with familiar favorites, covering everything from premium dog food to specialty treats and toys. Reviewers consistently praise the pricing and the breadth of options available in what might seem like a small-town shop.
Carey and her staff are described as incredibly kind, knowledgeable about pet care, and always willing to go above and beyond with personalized recommendations. For cabin-goers, lake visitors, and Nisswa locals alike, The Animal House serves as a reliable one-stop destination for pet supplies. While it does not appear to carry fish or aquarium products based on available reviews, its reputation as a community-oriented pet store with character and heart makes it a standout in the area.
If you're passing through Nisswa with your dog in tow, this is the kind of place where you'll leave with a full bag and a happy pup.
Highlights
What makes them special
- Owner Carey personally greets dogs with treats and goes above and beyond for customers
- Unique selection of calming treats, chew toys, and specialty pet products
- Convenient stop for cabin and lake visitors in the Brainerd Lakes area
From keepers
Customer reviews
“The best store to get pet supplies and treats. The owner of the place, Carey, is the sweetest! She goes above and beyond for her fur customers and their parents. My babies love going there- they get a treat ( or 3 ) every single time!”
— Iryna Wester5.04 months ago“Only place I buy pet supplies and dog food”
— Jonny5.06 months ago“Great options for all pet supplies! Helpful and knowledgeable owner for pet care. Love supporting the local community.”
— Emma Whiteman5.0a year ago“They have everything here, I wasn't aware of this place, happy surprise.”
— Tammi Walton5.0a year ago“Love this place and their assortment of good products for my dog!”
— cearra nelson5.0a year ago“Great selection of products. Staff is incredibly kind and helpful. This is our go to for our dogs.”
— Carly Ogdahl5.0a year ago“Great prices and products! I love this store.”
— Mimi Thurlow5.0Edited a year ago“This place is great. One of our dogs was super anxious on a trip to our family cabin. This store was close by and convenient with a few options for calming treats as well as chew toys. The person working was helpful and gave a few treats to our dog (who was also welcomed warmly into the store). They have a unique selection of treats and toys as well as some old favorites.”
— Bailey Otto5.0a year ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (218) 961-7387 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting The Animal House.