Pet Palace

Pet Palace in Aurora, Colorado is a family-run pet supply store that has built a loyal following over nearly two decades — and it's easy to see why. Walk in and you'll find an exceptionally curated selection of dog and cat toys, treats, and premium foods that you simply won't see on the shelves at chain retailers. Regulars rave about the dog bakery cases, unique catnip finger puppets, and a broad inventory of higher-end food brands at prices that consistently undercut the competition.

But Pet Palace isn't just a dog-and-cat operation. The store maintains a clean, well-kept fish section overseen by Matt, the fish manager, who has earned a reputation for his deep knowledge of aquariums and genuine care for the animals in stock. Reviewers specifically note that the bettas here look healthy and well-maintained — a detail that matters to fishkeepers who've seen the sad cups at big box stores.

Matt is happy to walk customers through tank setup and ongoing care, making this a solid starting point for anyone entering the freshwater hobby in the Aurora area. The self-service dog wash is another major draw. At just $10, the station comes stocked with clean tubs, fresh towels, brushes, shampoo, and even treats.

Multiple reviewers mention the staff staying late to accommodate last-minute baths, and the facility is consistently described as spotless. Staff members like Amelia, Tasha, Michelle, and Cheri come up by name again and again. They'll help you navigate dietary changes for a dog with allergies, special order items they don't carry, and offer frank advice on nutrition — sometimes a little too frank, as one reviewer noted.

The adjacent vet clinic run by Dr. G provides convenient access to veterinary care under the same roof. Pet Palace thrives because it operates like a neighborhood institution rather than a retail outlet.

The owners know their regulars, the shelves reflect genuine curation, and the staff invests real time in each customer's visit. For Aurora pet owners who want personalized service and a shopping experience that actually feels good, this is the local store worth driving a little farther for.