Housed in a converted historic home on the main drag of Ashland, Virginia, Fin & Feather is the kind of independent pet store that rewards a closer look. Owner Mark and his team—including Ethan, who earns particular praise for his patience with newcomers—have packed every room of this quirky old house with an impressive density of supplies, live animals, and hard-to-find stock. The aquarium section punches well above its weight for a shop this size.
" Live plants fill the tanks alongside the fish, and a solid selection of rock and driftwood gives aquascapers real options at reasonable prices. Cichlid keepers will find knowledgeable guidance here—staff helped at least one customer dial in their cichlid tank setup—and the shop stocks axolotls and can walk you through the entire nitrogen cycle before you buy one. If something isn't on the shelf, they'll place a special order and have it in quickly.
What sets Fin & Feather apart is the caliber of advice. Staff are genuinely fluent in aquascaping, fish compatibility, and water chemistry, and they'll talk through your situation without rushing you. Multiple customers note they drive from Richmond specifically for the service and expertise.
The shop also carries a wide range of pet food and supplies for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and more, making it a true one-stop independent pet store. The space is tight—don't bring a crowd—but every square foot is used efficiently. Think of it less as a limitation and more as evidence that Mark curates carefully.
The atmosphere is personal and unhurried, the kind of place where the owner once closed shop to run home and grab a dog carrier for a stranded traveler. That story captures the ethos perfectly: Fin & Feather operates on genuine generosity, not corporate policy. If you're anywhere near Ashland, it's worth the visit.
Lyn Zacharias
49 reviews
Great staff. Healthy fish
Lauren Radziejewska
2 reviews
Such an amazing experience! Fin and Feather is a lovely independent pet shop in a historic home, stacked to the ceiling with everything for all your non human friends. For that alone it is fantastic. However, the customer service I received there goes beyond anything I have experienced in a very long time. I was traveling from Richmond to NYC with my small dog on the Amtrak recently. When the conductor rounded for my ticket he abruptly informed me that we would have to leave the train at the next stop because the carrier little dog was in (his usually carry tote) was not an approved pet carrier. Next stop: Ashland Virginia. With no transportation I was really hoping to find a pet shop or hardware store within walking distance where I could buy a new carrier and catch the next train. When I arrived at Fin and Feather I was immediately greeted by Mark, the owner. I asked him if he carried carriers; he had a few but none that I could sling over my shoulder while I carried all my other luggage. He then remembered he had recently bought one for one of his adult children's dog but had yet to give it to them. What happened next was simply amazing - He offered to close his shop and run to his house nearby and retrieve the carrier he had. So I sat with my dog and the luggage on the porch for 10 minutes. When he returned with the bag (which was perfect BTW) he gave my a huge discount since I was in such a pinch! Realistically he could have charged ME more for his extra effort. This was such a kind and humane interaction that was profoundly generous at the exact time I needed help. Mark's effort really goes beyond exceptional customer service, although it certainly was. It was something even more. I really am so grateful. So, in short, without a doubt, if you are anywhere near Ashland VA, go see him and his shop and spend some money there!
David Deffenbaugh
16 reviews
Really?Great placeThe staff is very friendly and helpful
Bill lowe
14 reviews
Awesome cool fish you dont find just anywhere
George Dodson
59 reviews
Fin & Feather is THE place for your pets needs. Very courteous and knowledgeable staff.
Richard Slyder
Asked a question and recieved a very useful answer. Bought nothing, but store appeared well stocked of pet items. By
Alden Flores
5 reviews
wonderful little lfs with mostly great prices! staff are super friendly and were no stranger to talking to me about my needs and what i'm looking for- super knowledgeable and kind (which is a big deal for myself being an awkward autistic person that struggles to approach others) better variety of fish than you'd find at a chain store, although the reptiles and amphibians were pretty standard and common ones. live animals looked pretty healthy and well maintained. great selection and prices for rock and driftwood and other tank/terrarium decor the store itself is a bit on the smaller side though, so i do not recommend coming in with a group of more than 4-6
Candice Phillips
13 reviews
Staff is always friendly and helpful. The building is small but has alot to choose from. Never have a problem finding what I need and usually leave with extra.
Carlena Monroe
36 reviews
Small town pet store. Great atmosphere and friendly staff.
Dennis king
23 reviews
Great local owned place to keep my pets healthy and happy
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (804) 798-2228 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Fin & Feather of Ashland.
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307 S Center St, Ashland, VA 23005
February 7, 2026
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