About
A Pet's Tale in Chester, Virginia is primarily a pet supply and animal adoption shop rather than a dedicated fish store. While the Google listing categorizes it as a pet store, the overwhelming focus of customer experiences centers on birds, reptiles, and small mammals — making it a destination for exotic pet enthusiasts in the Chester area rather than aquarium hobbyists. The store has earned a loyal following for its hands-on, personal approach to pet adoption.
Customers rave about meeting the parents of fancy rats before choosing their babies, and the owner breeds crested geckos and other reptiles on-site. One reviewer described putting together a complete chameleon setup and taking home a baby crested gecko and leopard gecko, all healthy and thriving. The bird selection includes budgies, parrots, and smaller species, with rescued birds like Angel the bird charming visitors who stop in.
What sets A Pet's Tale apart from chain pet stores is the rescue element. The shop takes in animals needing second homes, and the owner personally vets adopters to ensure good placements. Multiple reviewers specifically mentioned choosing this store over PetSmart and other larger retailers because of the care and attention given to individual animals.
The owner's knowledge of exotic animals comes up repeatedly in reviews — she provides guidance on reptile setups, bird care, and small mammal husbandry. Services extend to bird grooming, including claw trims and beak sanding. The shop also carries new and gently used pet supplies alongside locally crafted gifts and animal artwork.
A few reviewers have raised concerns about cage cleanliness and tank conditions in the reptile section, noting dirty enclosures on certain visits. However, the vast majority of customers praise the store's warmth and the genuine passion of its staff. For Chester residents seeking exotic pets with a personal, small-shop experience, A Pet's Tale delivers something the big-box stores simply cannot.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Services
- Consultation
Highlights
What makes them special
- Animal rescue and adoption center for birds, reptiles, and small mammals
- On-site breeding of fancy rats and reptiles with opportunity to meet parent animals
- Complete reptile setups available including chameleons, crested geckos, and leopard geckos
- Bird grooming services including claw trims and beak sanding
- Knowledgeable owner specializing in exotic animal care and advice
From keepers
Customer reviews
“What an interesting store! If you're a lover of unique animals, animal artwork and interesting people, then this store is for you.”
— Robert Newman4.0a month ago“Thank you so much for the claw trim and beak sand on my Peppy this morning. He really took a liking to you and you did a great job.”
— Deborah Acors5.0a month ago“Thanks. I just bought a pair of parrots and 3 very pretty little birds. The saleswoman was very cheerful and enthusiastic. I will come back.”
— L D5.02 months ago“i am so grateful for this store! after suddenly losing one of my budgies, i was very worried about being unable to find my remaining one a friend, as i could not find any for adoption online. i went to a pet's tale and they were incredibly kind and helpful, and i was able to adopt a budgie with a huge personality! please consider visiting this store if you are looking for a pet :)”
— darcy5.02 months ago“I absolutely love A Pet’s Tale in Chester! I’ve gotten a complete chameleon setup, a baby crested gecko, crested enclosures, and a leopard gecko from here — everything has been healthy, thriving, and top-notch quality. The owner is incredibly knowledgeable and truly cares about every animal in the store. You can tell she’s passionate about what she does, and it shows in the health and happiness of the pets. The staff is also friendly, welcoming, and always willing to share helpful tips. This isn’t just a pet store — it’s a place that can brighten even the roughest mental health days. Whenever I stop by, I leave with a smile (and sometimes a new little scaly friend!). Highly recommend for both first-time reptile owners and experienced keepers!”
— Tori Reynolds5.05 months ago“We recently visited and honestly are concerned for the animals. The condition of their cages was not ok. Lots of poop every where. There’s poop caked on the wheels.”
— Jess1.05 months ago“What a warm hearted place to visit and find a new friend, many pets here are looking for a second home. The rescued bird Angel is so endearing!”
— Rie Cherie5.06 months ago“i didn’t get the name of the girl who helped us but was super nice and helpful, showed us the parents of the rats i was getting, let me hold them and overall amazing”
— Danica Mumm5.07 months ago“Great people working there!”
— Robert Wade5.07 months ago“This pet store is awesome and the people that work there are very knowledgeable and helpful.They love animals and they are a rescue center for pets which is the coolest thing about them.”
— Paul Martin5.08 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call ahead to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting A Pet's Tale.