Pet Junction

Tucked away in Dover, New Hampshire, Pet Junction is the kind of independent pet store that earns its reputation one customer at a time. Owned and operated by Mike and Dave, this shop pairs a deeply personal approach with a surprisingly impressive freshwater fish selection that rivals — and often surpasses — what you'd find at big-box competitors in the Seacoast area. The fish section, hidden in the back of the store, is where things get interesting.

Customers have spotted red-bellied piranhas, freshwater rays, kuhli loaches, koi, and species rare enough that even experienced fishkeepers do a double-take. The staff doesn't just sell fish — they actively guide customers on compatibility, tank setup, and long-term care. One reviewer recounted how the team spent weeks testing their tank water during weekly check-ins, bringing their aquarium back to healthy parameters before helping them stock it.

That kind of patience is rare in the hobby and almost unheard of at a general pet store. Beyond the tanks, Pet Junction has built a loyal following for its curated selection of high-quality, USA-made pet foods, treats, and supplies. Mike is known for taking his time with every customer, asking what they actually need rather than pushing products.

The store stocks items from local businesses and runs a loyalty rewards program that regulars swear by. Multiple reviewers specifically called out the nutritional knowledge of the staff — this isn't a place where someone reads a label back to you. The atmosphere is warm and unhurried, with a resident shop dog greeting visitors at the door.

One customer driving three hours home with new fish was offered an insulated cooler for transport — a small gesture that speaks volumes about how this store operates. Another was able to return koi they'd purchased years earlier when they had to relocate. Pet Junction proves that an independent store staffed by people who genuinely care can outperform the chains on selection, service, and trust.