








Fin & Feather Pet Center has been a Richmond institution for decades — some customers have relied on this Lakeside neighborhood shop for nearly 30 years. While it bills itself as a general pet store, aquarium enthusiasts in particular will find plenty of reasons to make the trip. The fish room stocks a rotating variety of freshwater species, including cichlids and bettas, along with a solid selection of live aquatic plants that keeps hobbyists coming back regularly to see what's new.
One of Fin & Feather's standout features is its dedicated pond shop, located right next door to the main store. Koi keepers throughout the Richmond area swear by it, praising the health and vibrancy of the koi they've purchased and calling it their only source for pond fish and water garden supplies. If you're maintaining a koi pond, you'll find everything from fish to full pond equipment under one roof.
Inside the main store, the aquarium supply section is notably well-stocked with medications — a detail that matters when you're dealing with a sick tank and can't afford to wait for online shipping. Customers have praised being able to pick up hospital tank supplies, treatments, and frozen fish food all in one visit. The selection of tanks is worth checking too; deals on setups like 75-gallon tanks have drawn buyers from outside the immediate area.
The staff tends to be a highlight, with several reviewers noting employees who spend real time answering questions — one customer described a 30-minute consultation about snake ownership with a staff member named Ian. The team clearly skews toward animal people who enjoy talking shop, whether the subject is community tank stocking, reptile temperaments, or koi pond care. Fin & Feather isn't flashy or Instagram-curated.
It's a lived-in, long-running local pet store with real depth in freshwater fish, pond supplies, and the kind of personal service that keeps Richmond hobbyists driving past the big-box chains.
Patrick Brown
14 reviews
Animal conditions, both vertebrates and invertebrates, are abysmal. Owner also offered to “procure” an endangered reptile (for the right price) which is illegal black market trade. Unethical, expensive and ill managed.
Heather Painter
14 reviews
I sent an email about a bulb I needed because a larger retailer failed my order. They put the bulb I needed in the office until my husband got there and that means the world to me. I had been having such a hard time finding that bulb. Their help was much appreciated.
Kim Warren
49 reviews
Excellent customer service . Centrally located in lakeside. Highly recommend this local pet store. Lots of products for all types of pets. Highly recommend, love the local feel.
Morgan Turner
6 reviews
Everything is dirty and there is absolutely no selection at all. The animals are all very very poor, living in terrible conditions. Everything is very over priced as well. One of the worst pet stores I’ve been to and unfortunately drove two hours for it, that’s my fault. 🤣🤦🏻♀️
Brandon
94 reviews
My number one place locally to get all my pet needs. Also everyone is very helpful and informative with all questions regarding feeders they sell.
Junior Fogleman
3 reviews
The best knowledge of fish and best variety would give 10 stars if I could
Tequan Maduro
24 reviews
I LOVE THIS PLACE. Every time I goo there I find cool species of fish and they are affordable. At first I was just testing my luck, but this has become my preference of all per stores. 10/10 ALWAYS RECOMMEND.
Brandon Petrosky
52 reviews
We visited the store today to inquire about getting our daughter a snake. Ian was wonderfully helpful in helping us understand snake ownership, different species temperaments, and suggest a great fit for our daughter. He gave us at least 30 minutes of time answering our many questions. I would highly recommend this shop.
Caryn Boehm
6 reviews
Staff here is always friendly and helpful. They carry extra we need to take care of our dog.
Marc Wagner
100 reviews
Great neighborhood store! I've relied on them for nearly 30 years. Always a good selection of items. Thanks!
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (804) 262-6681 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Fin & Feather Pet Center, Inc..
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5208 Lakeside Ave, Richmond, VA 23228
February 7, 2026
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