About
Tucked away on Whidbey Island, Island Pet Center in Oak Harbor has been a family-owned staple for years, drawing loyal customers who drive considerable distances for its aquarium section and overall pet supply selection. While it's a general pet store at heart — carrying everything from dog food to guinea pig supplies to bearded dragon feeders — the fish department has earned a devoted following among freshwater hobbyists on the island. " Staff member Bryce earned a glowing shoutout for his patience and expertise in helping a family build a complete freshwater setup, and the store has been described as having an "insane assortment of fish" alongside fresh feeder insects for reptiles.
It's worth noting, however, that as of 2024 the store does not carry saltwater livestock, so reef enthusiasts will need to look elsewhere. The store's real currency is its staff. Names like Briar and Bryce come up repeatedly in reviews, and the general consensus is that employees are genuinely knowledgeable — not just friendly in a retail-greeting way, but able to answer real questions about animal care and product recommendations.
The hydrolyzed dog food they carry has been a lifeline for at least one customer with an allergy-prone dog, and their loyalty program offering a free bag of food after a set number of purchases keeps pet owners coming back. Pricing is competitive with online retailers, which is notable for an island shop where markups could easily be justified. The store is clean, well-organized, and a popular spot for families to bring kids to see fish, reptiles, and small animals.
Selection can occasionally be limited in certain categories — flea prevention and canned food have drawn mild complaints — but the trade-off is a curated inventory of high-quality products that consistently surprises customers who might otherwise default to chain stores.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Family-owned island pet store with a loyal multi-decade customer base
- Strong freshwater fish and live plant selection with healthy, thriving livestock
- Knowledgeable staff including standout employees Bryce and Briar
- Competitive pricing that often beats Amazon and online retailers
- Loyalty program offering free bag of food after qualifying purchases
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Love this place. Staff are always friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Have driven far for decades to this store for aquarium needs. Fish and plants always thrive and I can find anything I need for the ecosystem.”
— Erin W5.02 months ago“Fantastic store”
— spring roehm5.02 months ago“I love products and people my dog acts like a kid in a candy store every time we come I always get greenies fo him but sometimes I get him a nonrawhide bone:)”
— Jacey Neubauer5.02 months ago“Had what we needed”
— Nate Johnson5.04 months ago“Support local!”
— Kathie Rivas (Kathie Personal)5.0Edited 4 months ago“The customer service is what keeps us coming back!”
— Nick Mathis5.05 months ago“Lots of choices, knowledgeable help. Easy in and out. Fair prices. Locally owned and operated. Support local businesses. I buy my dog food here. They have a buy x number bags get 1 free program.”
— Susan5.06 months ago“The employees weren't very friendly. Quite rude actually. I asked to hold their rats and the lady immediately asked if I was planning to buy one, I said no and she never answered me beyond that. Blatantly ignoring me. I was planning on buying a fish from them but forget that. I'm incredibly disappointed in them.”
— JJ Prendergast (Nonsensica)1.06 months ago“Very nice pet store, super clean.”
— Victor Lavergne5.06 months ago“I'm changing a 4 star review and giving them 5 stars...they deserve 6 stars frankly. Outstanding, thoughtful customer service, great staff, great owner. Great business.”
— Jim McDavid5.0Edited 7 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (360) 675-9646 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Island Pet Center.