About
Next to Nature on Tacoma Avenue has spent more than twenty years building a fiercely loyal following among Tacoma, WA pet owners, and it's worth being upfront: this isn't a fish store or aquarium store. It's a locally owned natural pet food and supply shop, the kind of mom-and-pop spot that has become the go-to alternative to big-box chains like PetCo and PetSmart for people who care about what their animals eat. The heart of the place is its curated selection of high-quality, natural, and locally sourced pet food for sale in Tacoma, WA.
95 for a 28-lb bag, alongside allergy-friendly and specialty options for both cats and dogs. " The staff don't just stock shelves. One shopper came in about her cat's dandruff and left with a food and fish-oil suggestion that cleared it up within a week, and the manager has handed out fifteen free samples of dry cat food so a customer could find the right fit before buying a full bag.
Inside, the atmosphere is warm and a little whimsical. A resident cat naps in a quiet corner, and the dessert case of pet treats is a genuine highlight, stocked for doggy birthdays and every occasion between. " Kong and Chuck It toys, homemade chews, and a rotating pet-clothing section round things out.
What keeps people coming back, some driving in from Puyallup, is the people. Staff turnover stays remarkably low, employees remember pets by name, and they'll special-order hard-to-find items, run a punch-card loyalty program, and keep a year-round pet food drive going. " If you're searching for a thoughtful Tacoma pet shop near me with real, hands-on advice, Next to Nature delivers.
Highlights
What makes them special
- Locally owned Tacoma pet supply shop serving the community for more than twenty years
- Curated natural, allergy-friendly, and high-end food for cats and dogs, including Taste of the Wild
- Resident store cat and a beloved dessert case of pet birthday treats
- Staff known for free food samples, special orders, and remembering pets by name
- Punch-card loyalty program and a year-round pet food drive
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Love this store! They have a great quality selection of items.”
— Ben Arroyo5.0a week ago“The employees are very friendly and super helpful!”
— gemmerz2065.03 weeks ago“I love this place. They have everything you need and are so knowledgeable and helpful. I buy my cat food here but they have lots of treats and toys too and tons of stuff for dogs.”
— Lisa Borkowski5.0a month ago“The staff is always nice! And they have so many options for your pets wants and needs! My dog loves the pig ears and baked treats!”
— ochaco815.02 months ago“Great customer service...very knowledgeable & friendly...Your whole staff ROCKS!!!!”
— Coreen Meyers5.02 months ago“Great spot with friendly and knowledgeable staff!”
— E Brotman5.04 months ago“A very nice selection of high-end dog food and cat food. Staff are welcoming and nice. Very clean and orderly.”
— Kris Smith5.04 months ago“Excellent staff and products!!”
— Jennifer Hoadley5.0a week ago“I've been a customer here since they were in the old building that burned down. Since moving further down Tacoma Ave, they're even closer to me—which has been super convenient. I actually walked here during that major snowfall back in 2021 (I think). My dog was completely out of food, and with the roads too dangerous to drive, having NTN open and within walking distance was an absolute lifesaver. They have a huge selection of pet products—it might feel a little overwhelming at first, but in the best way. Their prices are fair, and the staff is always friendly and helpful. I buy my dog food here (Taste of the Wild, Pacific Stream – $59.95 for 28 lbs), and this is my go-to spot for doggy birthdays. Their dessert case is amazing! There are treats for every occasion. They carry a wide variety of chews, snacks, and food brands. I always recommend this place to other pet lovers I know. Honestly, if I could, I'd visit more often and spend even more—it's that good. Give them a try; you won’t be disappointed!”
— M5.04 months ago“Very very cute pet store with goodies for humans. The stuffed toys are ardorable and huge variety. Teally fun navigating, friendly employees.”
— Chardi Jensen5.05 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (253) 779-8141 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Next to Nature.