Ruff Haus Pet Supply is a family-owned pet supply store in Farmington, New Mexico, that has built a fiercely loyal following — and for good reason. While primarily a dog and pet supply shop rather than a dedicated aquarium store, Ruff Haus stocks a surprisingly broad range of products for all kinds of pets, including items that are hard to find elsewhere in the Four Corners area.
Walk in with your pet and you'll immediately notice two things: the store is impeccably clean, and the staff — led by owner Laura — genuinely lights up around animals. It's a local tradition for visiting pets to get their photo taken and featured on the shop's Facebook and Instagram pages, something customers like Clementine's owner and Skitter's human clearly adore. That personal touch extends to the advice counter, where staff have been praised for offering compassionate, practical guidance on everything from freeze-dried chicken treats to pet CBD drops for hospice care.
The selection punches well above what you'd expect from a smaller, locally owned shop. Reviewers consistently note that Ruff Haus carries healthy, high-quality pet foods, snacks, and supplies that rival or surpass the big-box chains. One customer specifically mentioned finding products here that other pet stores in the area simply don't stock — though tortoise enthusiasts may need to look elsewhere. The store also carries a fun assortment of dog toys that customers find genuinely entertaining.
What makes Ruff Haus worth the visit is the combination of curated product quality and authentic community connection. Laura and her team know their inventory inside and out, and if something isn't on the shelf, they'll work to get it. In a town where the alternative is a trip to a corporate chain, Ruff Haus offers Farmington pet owners something better: a shop where the staff remembers your pet's name, stocks products they actually believe in, and makes every visit feel like stopping by a friend's house.
Tucked into Las Cruces, New Mexico — not exactly a hotbed for marine life — Ocean Aquarium and Ponds has become a destination store that saltwater and freshwater hobbyists drive hours to visit. Owner David (Dave to his regulars) runs a shop that punches well above its weight, stocking live coral, reef fish like anthias and gobies, anemones, clownfish, and a saltwater selection that has impressed enthusiasts from Alamogordo to El Paso.
But this isn't a saltwater-only operation. Dave carries a solid freshwater lineup including tropical fish, koi, freshwater shrimp, live plants, bottom feeders, and decorative driftwood — much of it priced at or below chain store levels. Multiple reviewers mention picking up everything needed for full tank setups, from a 55-gallon build to aquascaping supplies, all in a single visit. The store has even passed an Aquarium Co-Op inspection, a detail that speaks to the cleanliness and care visible in every tank on the floor.
The pond side of the business is real, too. Dave and his team handle koi pond cleaning, algae removal, and natural-looking hardscape features. One customer's before-and-after koi pond looked brand new, complete with a naturalistic hideout built for the fish.
What comes through most consistently across dozens of reviews is Dave himself. He remembers returning customers, recalls which fish they bought a year ago, takes time to educate newcomers on saltwater basics, and makes first-timers feel like regulars. One family with toddlers noted how welcome they felt browsing without pressure. Another reviewer drove two hours and left feeling like a longtime customer.
The store carries a broad inventory of aquarium equipment, fish food, medications, and accessories alongside the livestock. For anyone in southern New Mexico maintaining a reef tank, a planted freshwater setup, or a backyard koi pond, Ocean Aquarium and Ponds is the real deal — a locally owned shop with the stock, expertise, and pricing to keep hobbyists coming back.
Cross City Exotics in Las Cruces, New Mexico is primarily a reptile and exotic animal shop rather than a fish store, but it has earned a devoted local following with a 4.9-star rating across nearly 400 reviews. The store specializes in reptiles — corn snakes, pythons, bearded dragons, lizards, tortoises, and other exotic animals — along with the feeders, enclosures, and supplies needed to keep them thriving.
Walk in and you'll find baby reptiles available for adoption, bioactive enclosure supplies, manzanita wood pieces, hides, and a rotating stock of feeder insects including superworms and mealworms. The selection of animals changes regularly, giving repeat visitors something new to discover on each trip. Prices consistently undercut the big-box pet chains, with multiple reviewers noting significant savings on pythons and dragon food compared to PetSmart and Petco.
What truly sets Cross City Exotics apart is the staff. Names like Ariana and Kevin come up repeatedly in reviews, praised for their deep knowledge of reptile husbandry and genuine willingness to help. One customer called just to ask about tortoise care and received thorough, patient guidance over the phone — without buying a thing. First-time reptile owners report leaving the store feeling educated and confident, while experienced keepers appreciate the detailed bioactive enclosure advice. One family drives 45 minutes each way specifically because of the quality of service.
The shop is on the smaller side, and a few reviewers have noted ventilation could be improved. The store also doesn't currently carry feeder fish, which a couple of aquatic hobbyists have wished for. But the animals are visibly well cared for, the space is kept clean, and the staff clearly vet potential adopters to ensure good homes.
For Las Cruces residents looking for a locally owned alternative to chain pet stores — especially for reptiles, exotic animals, and feeder insects — Cross City Exotics delivers knowledgeable service and competitive pricing with a personal touch.
Southwest Reef Co LLC has carved out a loyal following among Albuquerque's saltwater community, and it's easy to see why. Owner Rob runs a tight operation where the tanks are pristine, the corals are vibrant, and the livestock arrives healthy and stays that way. Multiple customers report never losing a single animal purchased here — a testament to the level of care that goes into quarantine and husbandry behind the scenes.
The store is laser-focused on marine and reef aquariums, stocking everything from corals and saltwater fish to dry goods, additives, and filtration equipment. One customer credits Rob entirely for their success keeping a lionfish alongside a reef setup — the kind of tricky combination that demands real expertise. Another happily maintains a coral reef display in their office thanks to Southwest Reef Co's guidance and livestock selection.
Water testing is a staple service here, with hobbyists regularly bringing in samples for analysis. Rob and his staff don't just run numbers — they interpret results and offer actionable advice on how to dial in your tank's chemistry. Even customers outside the aquarium hobby have found value; one reviewer purchased a water filter and deionizer after a thorough phone consultation with Rob about their specific needs.
Pricing is a recurring bright spot in reviews. Several customers note that Southwest Reef Co beats online prices, which is saying something in a hobby where internet retailers dominate. The inventory is well-rounded enough that people routinely walk in for one item and leave with bags full of corals and supplies — a testament to the store's ability to tempt even disciplined hobbyists.
The shop operates with a knock-for-entry policy, which has occasionally tripped up first-time visitors, so calling ahead doesn't hurt. But once you're inside, you'll find a beautiful, meticulously maintained space staffed by people who genuinely love saltwater aquariums and want to see your tank thrive. For Albuquerque reef keepers, Southwest Reef Co is the definitive local destination.
Reef-Licious LLC on San Mateo Blvd. in Albuquerque has built a devoted following around one simple principle: take care of the tanks, and the rest follows. Walk inside and it's immediately apparent — the water is crystal clear, the livestock is vibrant, and every system looks meticulously maintained. It's a store that practices what it preaches, and reviewers consistently call it the cleanest fish shop they've ever visited.
The saltwater side is the star attraction. Reef-Licious carries a deep selection of corals that customers drive five hours to buy, specifically because the pest-free tanks mean they can skip quarantine at home. Anemones, marine fish, and full reef setups are core strengths, and owner Jin and team member D are frequently praised by name for their ability to walk customers through every stage of a saltwater build — from choosing equipment to long-term husbandry.
But freshwater hasn't been forgotten. The store stocks what multiple reviewers call the best live aquarium plants in Albuquerque, and Jin recently helped a customer assemble a complete CO2 system for a freshwater aquascape, troubleshooting regulator issues and even calling manufacturer support to resolve them. Bettas are kept in proper tanks rather than cups — a detail that matters to conscientious fishkeepers.
The service side of the business is equally impressive. Reef-Licious offers in-home tank maintenance and cleaning, handling everything from monthly reef upkeep to one-off turtle tank cleanouts. When a customer's 62-gallon tank developed a manufacturer defect and flooded their floor, Jin responded within five minutes, talked them through an emergency livestock rescue, and offered a full replacement or store credit the next morning — then personally delivered and set up the new tank.
This is a family-owned operation where staff hold fish for customers whose families are sick, where receipts get tracked down for warranty claims, and where consultations feel more like conversations with a knowledgeable friend. For Albuquerque's reef and planted tank communities, Reef-Licious has become the definitive local destination.
Walk into The Fish Room in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, and the first thing you'll notice is how clean everything is. Every tank is meticulously maintained, the livestock looks vibrant and healthy, and there's an unmistakable sense that someone genuinely cares about what's swimming behind that glass. That someone is Dustin, the owner, who has built a reputation among local freshwater hobbyists as the person to talk to when you need real answers about your aquarium.
This is a freshwater-focused shop with a strong emphasis on live plants, planted tank supplies, and community fish. Reviewers rave about the selection of lemon tetras, freshwater shrimp, plecos, and driftwood — the building blocks of a beautiful planted aquarium. CO2 tanks are available for those running high-tech planted setups. Notably, The Fish Room refuses to sell bettas in cups, instead giving every fish adequate space and proper care. It's a small detail that says a lot about the store's philosophy.
What sets this shop apart from big-box alternatives is the quarantine process. Newly received fish are kept in a separate area before being offered for sale — an expense most chain stores skip entirely. For customers, this translates to healthier livestock that actually thrives once introduced to a home tank. One aquarium maintenance business owner specifically praised the store's fish health and lack of overstocking.
Dustin and his staff, including Kennan, are consistently praised for taking time with customers — whether it's walking a first-time tank owner through setup over multiple visits or breaking up stones to fit a 5-gallon nano tank. The consultation doesn't feel transactional; it feels like talking to a friend who happens to know everything about freshwater fishkeeping.
The rotating stock keeps things interesting for repeat visitors, and the selection of driftwood, plants, and decor rivals shops in much larger cities. For freshwater enthusiasts in the Rio Rancho and Albuquerque area, this is where you want to be spending your time and money.
The Critters & Me on Agua Fria in Santa Fe is a locally owned pet supply shop that has carved out a loyal following among dog and cat owners across the city. While this isn't an aquarium store, it's a beloved neighborhood fixture for pet parents seeking high-quality, natural, and specialty food options that you won't find at the big box retailers.
The store's self-serve dog wash stations are arguably its biggest draw. Equipped with ramps, multiple shampoo options, and towels, the DIY bathing setup earns near-universal praise from customers who describe it as a "life saver" and "life line." Whether you've got a shedding husky or a tiny Yorkie, the wash stations make the messy job manageable — and the staff won't bat an eye at a loud or unruly pup.
Food selection is the other pillar of The Critters & Me's reputation. Customers consistently note the curated range of healthy, premium pet foods for both dogs and cats, including specialty and hard-to-find wet food brands like Catit pouches. The philosophy seems to be quality over quantity — staff members are well-versed in their inventory and can guide customers toward the right food for specific dietary needs. One reviewer celebrated finally finding food their Yorkie could tolerate. The store also stocks homeopathic pet remedies, innovative toys, and treats, with new products rotating in regularly.
A loyalty rewards program sweetens the deal — buy enough bags and you'll earn a free one. The store will also special order products and follow up when they arrive, a level of personal service that keeps Santa Fe pet owners coming back.
Prices run slightly higher than chain competitors, which is the trade-off for a locally owned shop with knowledgeable staff and a carefully chosen inventory. A few reviewers have noted occasional stock issues and the odd less-than-stellar customer interaction, but the overwhelming consensus is warm: this is a store where you're greeted at the door, your pet is offered a treat, and the shopping experience feels genuinely personal.
Tucked into one of Albuquerque's oldest communities on Candelaria, Albuquerque Water Gardens & Nursery is a sprawling oasis that feels worlds away from the big-box garden centers. The business has operated for many years, specializing in ponds and water gardens while maintaining an impressive nursery of locally grown terrestrial plants adapted to New Mexico's demanding climate and soil. Walking the grounds, you'll pass multiple display ponds stocked with water lilies, and the atmosphere has a relaxed, almost meditative quality that customers consistently rave about.
The pond plant selection is arguably the best in Albuquerque. You'll find lotus (both dwarf and standard varieties), water lilies, frog bit, rushes, and a range of aquatic plants priced from around $30 to over $100 for specialty specimens. They also sell pond fish — baby koi, goldfish, and even toad tadpoles — along with snails and other pond inhabitants to help build a functioning backyard ecosystem. Staff regularly advise customers on pond setup, plant care, and stocking strategies, making this a genuine resource for anyone building or maintaining a pond in the desert Southwest.
Beyond the water garden core, the nursery carries a huge variety of shrubs, trees, fruiting plants (customers have sampled fruit right off the plants), hibiscus, roses, grapevines, chile plants, and seasonal offerings like Christmas trees, handmade wreaths, and poinsettias. Decorative items include Talavera pots, ceramic planters, and fountain supplies — one customer got help sourcing materials to build a custom pottery fountain. Pond liners and other hardscape supplies round out the inventory.
The staff, led by owner John and his wife, are generally described as knowledgeable and mellow, though a few visitors have noted occasional moments of feeling rushed during busy periods. The locally grown plants are a major draw — they're already acclimated to the arid New Mexico environment, giving them a survival advantage over shipped-in stock from chain stores. For pond enthusiasts in Albuquerque, this is the definitive destination.
Acosta's Aquariums is the go-to pet destination in Hobbs, New Mexico, a town that doesn't have many options for aquarium enthusiasts. Run by Mr. Acosta himself, the shop packs a remarkable variety of animals and supplies into a compact, well-organized space. While it bills itself broadly as a pet store — carrying reptiles, birds, rodents, and small mammals — the aquarium side is what earns its name and draws dedicated hobbyists from across the region.
The fish selection spans both freshwater and saltwater species, with reviewers singling out healthy puffer fish and a rotating variety of aquarium fish at competitive prices. You'll also find live plants, shrimp, and snails — a nice touch for planted tank hobbyists who might otherwise have to order online. The store stocks aquarium supplies that are genuinely hard to find in southeastern New Mexico, making it a regional resource for anyone maintaining a tank.
Mr. Acosta is frequently praised for his patience and depth of knowledge, especially when it comes to aquarium care. Multiple customers describe him as the kind of owner who will walk you through setup questions and ongoing maintenance without rushing you. One reviewer noted purchasing a new fish tank after a thorough Q&A session, leaving with clear answers and confidence.
The store's cleanliness stands out in reviews — a meaningful detail when you're evaluating animal health. Fish, reptiles, and rodents are consistently described as healthy and well-kept. The reptile food selection is another strong point, drawing repeat customers who also keep scaled pets.
A word of practical advice from regulars: Acosta's sometimes closes before their posted hours, so plan to arrive before 4 PM to be safe. The store operates as a true neighborhood shop — intimate, personal, and stocked with care. For Hobbs residents and visitors passing through, it's the most reliable place in town to find quality aquarium fish, live plants, and the supplies to keep everything thriving.
Teca Tu A Pawsworthy Pet Emporium sits in the heart of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and while it's primarily a dog and cat supply destination rather than an aquarium shop, it has earned a devoted following among pet owners for its staggering variety and locally sourced products. The store's shelves are packed floor to ceiling — one reviewer noted they don't carry one leash, they carry hundreds, and their pet food selection stretches aisle after aisle. It's the kind of place where browsing becomes an event, and more than one customer has compared the experience to wandering a toy store as a kid.
The staff earns consistent praise for being helpful without being pushy. When one customer needed to fit a harness on a reluctant pug, employees patiently worked through multiple options until they found the right one — a level of hands-on service that's hard to replicate online. Another shopper purchased several dog sweaters with a generous return policy, bringing back only what didn't fit. That kind of flexibility and trust builds real loyalty.
Locally made treats and creative dog cookies are a particular draw, and the store stocks leather and turquoise collars and leashes that reflect Santa Fe's distinctive Southwestern aesthetic. Some customers have even found puppy food priced lower than Amazon, which is notable for a boutique pet shop. They also facilitate cat adoptions and maintain an online store for out-of-town fans who want to keep supporting them from afar.
While Teca Tu doesn't appear to carry fish or aquarium supplies based on available reviews, it's worth mentioning for any Santa Fe pet enthusiast making the rounds. The store's loyalty program, vast inventory, and welcoming atmosphere — dogs are invited to browse alongside their owners — make it a standout destination for dog and cat owners visiting or living in northern New Mexico.
