About
Next to Nature on Tacoma Avenue is one of those locally owned pet supply shops that has earned a fiercely loyal following over more than twenty years of operation. This isn't an aquarium store — it's a dedicated natural pet food and supply shop that has carved out a reputation as the go-to alternative to big-box retailers like PetCo and PetSmart for Tacoma pet owners who care about what their animals eat. The store's real strength lies in its curated selection of high-quality, natural, and locally sourced pet foods.
95 for a 28-lb bag) to specialty and allergy-friendly options. The staff doesn't just stock shelves — they do genuine homework on the foods they carry. One customer came in about her cat's dandruff and left with a food and fish oil recommendation that cleared it up within a week.
The manager has been known to hand out fifteen free samples of dry cat food so customers can find the right fit before committing to a full bag. The atmosphere inside is warm and a little whimsical. A resident cat can often be found napping in a quiet corner.
The dessert case of pet treats is a highlight, stocked for doggy birthdays and every occasion in between. Homemade treats, pet clothing, Kong and Chuck It toys, and an ever-rotating selection of chews and snacks line the shelves — enough to feel delightfully overwhelming without being chaotic. What truly sets Next to Nature apart is its people.
Staff turnover is remarkably low for retail, and longtime customers say employees remember their pets by name. They'll special-order items, run a punch card loyalty program, and maintain a year-round pet food drive. Customers drive from as far as Puyallup to shop here.
For Tacoma residents looking for thoughtful, personalized pet care from people who genuinely love animals, this neighborhood shop delivers.
Highlights
What makes them special
- Over 20 years serving Tacoma's pet community as a locally owned shop
- Extensive selection of natural, allergy-friendly, and local pet food brands
- Resident store cat and a beloved dessert case of pet birthday treats
- Staff known for personalized recommendations and remembering pets by name
- Year-round pet food drive and special-order service for hard-to-find items
From keepers
Customer reviews
“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“I absolutely love this place. The staff (and their pets) are so friendly and helpful, the store stocks excellent products, and the shopping experience is great. I have had to ask questions, return a food my dog didn't favor, and have gotten free bags of food numerous times because I'm a regular customer. I used to live nearby and have moved twice since then, but keep making the drive to go back. Totally recommend!”
— Hava Tursky5.05 months ago“High quality pet food (and everything else), super cute toys and extremely helpful staff!”
— Vanessa Lee5.05 months ago“Has a pretty good variety of options for pets! And owner is very kind and willing to order things in for you!”
— Sun5.06 months ago“Always my go to pet supply store when I need allergy friendly treats and food for my pets. Friendly and knowledgeable staff.”
— Jamie Nunya5.07 months ago“Amazon staff and prices”
— Franklin Sarmiento5.08 months ago“They are so friendly & helpful! It’s a beautiful setting for pet acupuncture, too. This is a place for healthy pet care.”
— Delores Smith5.08 months ago“HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!! We used to buy our cat food elsewhere until a friend recommended checking out Next To Nature right here in Tacoma. We stopped in one day and haven't shopped anywhere else for our cat food. They carried the wet food brand AND dry kibble brands that our cats ate -- and are more reasonably-priced than the previous stores we frequented. The best thing is that the staff are friendly and very helpful. They make you feel welcome and it's that feeling and welcoming environment that brings us back. I'd stop in at Next To Nature the next time you feel you need your pet food (not just for cats and dogs, either!)”
— Lowen Ashley5.09 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.