About
Pettin Place is one of Reno's longest-running independently owned pet stores, and its identity is firmly rooted in birds. Walk through the door and you'll likely be greeted by a pair of talking macaws perched near the register — a signature feature that customers mention again and again. The shop carries a wide selection of birds, from parakeets and cockatiels to canaries and macaws, along with bird food, toys, and treats.
Several reviewers note that Pettin Place was the only store in town where they could find canaries or certain bird species that the big-box retailers simply don't stock. Beyond birds, the store sells small animals including guinea pigs, hamsters, chinchillas, and rats — both as pets and as feeders for snake owners. Multiple customers mention buying feeder rats and mice here, though the store does not carry frozen feeders.
The shop also offers cockatiel grooming and bird boarding services, making it a useful resource for bird owners who travel. Run by longtime owners Linus and Marsha, the store has a loyal following who appreciate the personal touch and willingness to answer questions about exotic pet care. Customers describe warm interactions, with staff taking time to help pick out toys, identify the sex of small animals, and offer care tips.
Pet ID tags are another popular item, with at least one devoted customer praising their durability and fast turnaround. It's worth noting that Pettin Place draws polarized opinions. Fans love the old-school, mom-and-pop atmosphere and personal service.
Critics raise concerns about cage cleanliness, animal health, and crowded enclosures — issues that come up frequently enough to warrant attention. Some customers have reported purchasing animals that became ill shortly after purchase. For Reno residents seeking locally bred birds, small pets, or bird-specific supplies and boarding, Pettin Place remains a distinctive alternative to chain stores — a neighborhood fixture with character, even if it isn't without its flaws.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Services
- Fish BoardingConsultation
Highlights
What makes them special
- Reno's oldest locally owned pet store with talking macaws greeting visitors at the register
- Wide selection of birds including parakeets, cockatiels, canaries, and macaws
- Bird boarding and cockatiel grooming services available
- One of the few local sources for pet rats, guinea pigs, and feeder rodents
- Custom pet ID tags praised for durability and fast service
From keepers
Customer reviews
“they very clearly do not know what they're doing. do *NOT* buy from this place. at all. please for the love of animals.”
— matty1.0a month ago“DONT GO HERE worst animal care i’ve ever seen a pet store have! How do you work here and look at these animals and think it’s okay. Disturbing and definitely looking up if this is a felony. I just went here to get pinkies for my New snakes and they put them in a PAPER BAG! That poor chinchilla definitely will have health problems and including the mice and rats. Not sure if i should even FEED these to my snakes.”
— misa1.03 months ago“That's pet. Store is amazing. They had two talking parrots. They had a beautiful selection of birds and animals too. But I was wondering how old are you? Guys's cockatiels and what gender are they?and do you have cockatoos for sale”
— Aidan Grose4.0Edited 4 months ago“I purchased my cocketiel here and he passed. I had him less than a month. I bounded with the bird extremely fast. He learned how to step up on my finger. I consumed so much time with my bird Zeni. I believe that he was sick, which is what caused him to pass. The ladies at the store were really nice. They helped me pick out some awesome toys and treats. I’m just really sad. I paid 400$ plus another 100 for a nice cage. I’m really devastated. I’ll miss you Zeni. If the owners see this, i am wondering if you guys know if there were other customers who experienced this.”
— Marcia Moreno2.05 months ago“This place is amazing! I got 3 birds from here and they are turning out so good! I love the service they gave me I recommend this place if your getting birds/bird”
— Allen Koson5.06 months ago“Very friendly and helpful. Clean store. Wide variety. I buy my rats there. Sometimes they are out, though.”
— Diane Ryan4.0Edited 7 months ago“We bring our cockatiels here for grooming and boarding. Have a great selection of small pets for everyone. Mostly birds. Very friendly staff. Highly recommend checking it out.”
— Bil Yahner5.08 months ago“Great place with lots of pets and supplies.”
— Toni Suni5.08 months ago“Gem of a local place.”
— Chad Grayot5.08 months ago“Awesome place my daughter wanted to get 2 rats as pets. We went multiple places and this is the only place we found that had rats as pets. The worker was very nice and helped my daughter choose and took the time to look for females. Also showed us babies they had and helpful tips on caring for them definitely recommend.”
— Daniel5.011 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (775) 323-3348 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Pettin Place.