About
S & H Exotics in Salem, Oregon is primarily a reptile-focused small animal store rather than a fish shop. Owned and operated by Shaun and Heather, the business has carved out a loyal following among local reptile keepers, particularly snake owners. The store is best known for its live feeder rats and mice, which reviewers consistently praise as healthy, well-cared-for, and competitively priced — often described as the cheapest source in the area.
They also sell snakes, including pythons, and carry reptile supplies. While the hours are limited and appointments are sometimes recommended, customers rave about the personal, respectful service they receive. Multiple reviewers highlight how Shaun and Heather go out of their way to answer questions patiently, whether it's a nervous first-time live-feeder buyer or a frustrated novice calling seven minutes before closing.
One customer specifically noted that S & H was the only shop where staff addressed her directly rather than defaulting to her husband — a small but meaningful detail that speaks to the store's genuine attentiveness. The shop operates out of an accessible location along common commute routes in Salem, making it convenient for repeat visits. Reviewers describe the space as clean and welcoming, with a range of reptiles and supplies on display beyond just feeders.
The feeder rat program appears to be their bread and butter — customers report consistently plump, non-aggressive rats, with restocks happening within about four days when specific sizes sell out. 9 rating across 37 reviews, S & H Exotics has earned its reputation through straightforward kindness and fair pricing rather than flashy marketing. It's worth noting that this is not an aquarium or fish store — it's a reptile and feeder animal specialist.
But for Salem's snake-keeping community, Shaun and Heather have built something that inspires genuine loyalty and repeat business.
Highlights
What makes them special
- Best local source for competitively priced live feeder rats and mice
- Owners Shaun and Heather known for exceptional patience and personal customer service
- Sells snakes including pythons alongside reptile supplies
- Clean, welcoming shop with appointment-recommended visits
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Nice respectful family business.”
— Amanda Abbott5.0a month ago“Takes you to a residential house that is not an actual business!”
— Missy Stephenson1.03 months ago“Bought pet Rats from them 3 times now. Always very friendly and accommodating. Dont hesitate to reach out to them”
— Joseph Sturzinger5.03 months ago“They are the nicest people. And the price is good. I love coming here for my snake food.”
— jessica hightower5.03 weeks ago“A great business, although the hours are limited. Will definitely visit again.”
— Preston Mandas5.03 months ago“These people are amazing people. Lots of knowledge. Very kind, I found them on the internet and just dropped by not knowing I needed an appointment, They were very understanding and helped me with everything I had questions about. Highly recommend. Next time I’ll make an appointment though lol. Thank you S&H exotics will be back for sure”
— Colby Stacey5.03 months ago“First time stopping by and I will definitely be back and doing business with them. Very nice people. Not people that with make you dumb...(example some people make you feel stupid or lower then them) very clean and very open to communication as to any questions asked. I was in a hurry today and was only getting food for my snakes and bummed I didn't see the rest of what they had. Next time for sure...”
— Wendi C.5.03 months ago“WOW! While the reptile scene is full of charismatic, friendly people, up until recently I haven’t such luck when it comes to shopping local for reptile supplies- until now! My first contact was a few weeks ago when I had one of the most disheartening experiences with the owner of another local supply store turned “gallery” (🙄). I cannot remember service so intentionally antagonizing, and critical in the last two decades. Immediately after, I found S & H Exotics and was pleased to see the location is easy to access on my daily commute. After being talked down to by the last shop, I cannot imaging a call from a frustrated novice 7 minutes before closing is anything less than excruciating. My point being; Shaun took that call, and managed to make the most astonishing change in my expectations, and my attitude- that was no fault of his own. * And this was all without completing a single transaction! * Because of the unexpected, and unbeatable kindness, patience, and accommodation of Shaun and Heather, I’m happy to say that today I have made my first purchase of many, many more to come. With the upmost sincerity, I can’t see myself ever buying elsewhere for my needs. 12/10 Not only do I highly recommend, but I will definitely punk you (Ashton Kutcher level) for even considering buying elsewhere. Thank you, Heather and Shaun!”
— La Llorona5.03 months ago“WOW! While the reptile scene is full of charismatic, friendly people, up until recently I haven’t such luck when it comes to shopping local for reptile supplies- until now! My first contact was a few weeks ago when I had one of the most disheartening experiences with the owner of another local supply store turned “gallery” (🙄). I cannot remember service so intentionally antagonizing, and critical in the last two decades. Immediately after, I found S & H Exotics and was pleased to see the location is easy to access on my daily commute. After being talked down to by the last shop, I cannot imaging a call from a frustrated novice 7 minutes before closing is anything less than excruciating. My point being; Shaun took that call, and managed to make the most astonishing change in my expectations, and my attitude- that was no fault of his own. * And this was all without completing a single transaction! * Because of the unexpected, and unbeatable kindness, patience, and accommodation of Shaun and Heather, I’m happy to say that today I have made my first purchase of many, many more to come. With the upmost sincerity, I can’t see myself ever buying elsewhere for my needs. 12/10 Not only do I highly recommend, but I will definitely punk you (Ashton Kutcher level) for even considering buying elsewhere. Thank you, Heather and Shaun!”
— Teniente Patrón Candelario5.08 months ago“Friendly, knowledgeable, prompt and fair. My net go-to.”
— Oregon Rock Makers5.03 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (503) 877-5528 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting S & H Exotics.