Pet & Aquatic Warehouse — known locally as PAW — occupies a unique two-story footprint in Lynchburg, Virginia, with the entire lower level dedicated to aquatics. That downstairs fish room draws customers from surprisingly far away; one reviewer drives nearly two hours each way just to buy fish and supplies here, and another makes the trip from West Point, Virginia, for advice on fish and snakes alike. The freshwater selection is the main draw, with gouramis, silver mollies, Dalmatian mollies, bettas, and more filling rows of tanks.
Staff will special order fish they don't currently have in stock, and all fish come with a health guarantee that reviewers say the store actually honors. What sets PAW apart on the aquatic side is the hands-on guidance. Multiple reviewers describe walking in with zero fishkeeping knowledge and leaving with a clear plan — tank, rocks, decor, filters, and a timeline for cycling before adding livestock.
One customer credited the staff with helping them successfully launch two aquariums from scratch, rating the experience 11 out of 10. The team earns praise for steering people toward compatible products rather than just upselling, a detail that matters when you're stocking a new setup. Upstairs, PAW is a full-service pet store carrying puppies, cats, birds, rabbits, ferrets, chinchillas, reptiles including bearded dragons, ball pythons, corn snakes, and a solid selection of feeders and supplies.
The reptile department staff drew specific praise for husbandry advice on pythons and enclosure recommendations. It's worth noting that several puppy buyers raised serious concerns about breeding sourcing and health transparency, so prospective dog owners should do thorough independent research before purchasing. The supply aisles cover food, décor, and equipment across species at prices most reviewers find reasonable, though a few note increases over time.
For Lynchburg-area fishkeepers, the dedicated aquatics floor and genuinely knowledgeable staff make PAW a destination worth the drive.
Stacy Mahm
15 reviews
Let me start by saying: I adore my dog. He is perfect. 10/10, no notes. The experience of buying him here? …that’s another story. I was sold a dog confidently listed as “100% purebred.” Spoiler alert: he is not. Turns out he’s more of a mystery box with paws, which honestly would’ve been fine if that’s what I was told upfront and in the paperwork, which clearly meant nothing. Then came the first vet visit post-adoption, which revealed not one but two surprise roommates: giardia and roundworms. Because why stop at one? PAW just told me he had a sensitive stomach... YEAH I WONDER WHY. After months of treatment and over $3,000 in vet bills, I learned that “purebred” apparently means “purely optimistic.” To be clear: I wouldn’t trade my dog for the world. He’s healthy now, happy, and the love of our household. But this store? Y’all are crooked. Misrepresentation + selling sick animals is not cute, not ethical, and not something people should have to discover after they’ve already fallen in love. If you’re going to sell dogs: Be honest about breeding Be transparent about health And maybe don’t send people home with a parasite sampler pack Do better. Dogs (and customers) deserve it.
Treasure Johnson
They had rabbits in there! I love rabbits! 🐇🐇🐇🐇🐇🐇🐇🐇🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍
Travis Chapman
13 reviews
Excellent selection and staff
Hayden Loveday Pearson
4 reviews
My partner and I got a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel from PAW in January of 2025, and while I love this little girl of mine, I do wish we had done way more research. It's (now) very obvious that she came from a puppy mill. You can find NO details about her breeder online, and I learned her ACA registry was only because they have more "relaxed" breeding standards. She ended up being diagnosed epileptic at 8mo. due to her poor breeding. The ethics of this place are absolute garbage. As convenient as it may be to go to the local pet store and pick out a cute pup, it's in the best interest of you, your animal, and your wallet to do your research first.
Susan McCoy
9 reviews
Staff is so sweet & patient with both customers & pets. Staff members are very dedicated to keeping the puppies very happy & healthy. Enjoy visiting!
Pam Winston
17 reviews
Purchased a puppy I wanted .. love this shop. So much to choose from. Staff are so helpful and friendly.
David H. Francis
37 reviews
Our Rabbits love this place. They love the toys, anything with a bell. Play with them for hours. Timmy hey is great also. The hard kind. The staff were very kind and professionally.
Brad Ludington
29 reviews
Staff is great and super friendly. I drove down to buy a lavender corn snake that they had in stock. While I only went in for the snake, you can see that this place has everything!! The bottom floor is for fish/aquatics, while the upstairs is for all other pets. Great deals and great staff. Highly recommend.
Neil Kage (NN24)
14 reviews
Staff was very helpful and informative. Even give recommendations for pets.
Bess Trainer
148 reviews
Helpful for handicapped person
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (434) 239-6787 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Pet & Aquatic Warehouse.
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2408 Wards Rd, Lynchburg, VA 24502
February 7, 2026
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