Colonial Pet Shoppe has been a fixture in Manitowoc for years, holding its own against the big-box competition with a distinctly local, family-run charm. Walk through the door and you'll find tanks lining the walls stocked with a rotating selection of freshwater tropicals, some saltwater fish, and the occasional specialty catch — including puffer fish that apparently generate enough demand to warrant special orders. They also carry goldfish varieties like shubunkins, snails, and other invertebrates for community tanks.
But fish are only part of the picture. Colonial is very much a full-service pet shop in the traditional sense. Bearded dragons, leopard geckos, tarantulas, birds, rabbits, and rats fill the cages and enclosures throughout the store.
Live feeder mice and crickets are a steady draw for reptile owners, and multiple reviewers note the feeders here are healthier and better-priced than what you'd find at chain stores. One ball python owner specifically praised the quality of their feeder mice over competitors. On the supply side, the shop stocks premium brands like Royal Canin and offers special ordering for pet food — they'll even call you when your order arrives.
Used cages are sometimes available for budget-conscious shoppers, a thoughtful touch that speaks to the store's practical, community-minded approach. The staff generally earns praise for friendliness and willingness to help customers choose the right food or answer questions. The store layout is well-organized and clean, making it easy to browse.
That said, some reviewers have raised concerns about animal care conditions, particularly for rodents, so it's worth inspecting any live purchase carefully. For Manitowoc residents who want a local alternative with more live animal variety than the chains and a personal touch that corporate stores can't replicate, Colonial Pet Shoppe delivers a browsing experience that feels like a proper neighborhood pet shop — the kind where you can't resist saying hello to every animal on your way to the register.
Arafatul Islam Saon
39 reviews
Colonial Pet Shoppe is a standout local business! From their impressive selection of premium pet supplies like Royal Canin to their well-organized store layout, it's clear they prioritize quality for every pet owner. As a digital marketer, I see immense potential for this brand to grow even further through community engagement. A must-visit for anyone in Manitowoc looking for top-tier products and friendly service!
Cassandra Kunz
31 reviews
Cute little pet shop, lots of o cute animals and great prices.
Javier Gonzalez (Hard Fighters)
28 reviews
I’m still giving him a five star review, even though I’m really upset because an employee from the store stepped on my toes. There was three puffer fish on hold and the person was supposed to pick them up Saturday. I gave that person the opportunity the full day to pick them up found out Sunday they were closed. I specifically told the people that were working the day that I was there when I saw the three fish on hold and I had the money to buy them right then and there and I was ready to they told me they couldn’t sell them to me because they were on hold they were special ordered I told him can I pay for them and if the person doesn’t pick them up, I’ll come get them right away they said they don’t do that. I said that’s fine. Well, I want you guys to know that I’m coming to grab these as soon as the hold is picked up well one of the employees turned around and stepped on. My toes bought one of the fish that I wanted. I came Monday night to pick them up only to find out that there was only two left. I Which don’t get me wrong I’m grateful for the two that were left, but the employee knew I was coming for them and she still decided to purchase one even though I offered to pay for them in advance so that they wouldn’t get sold on me honestly I retract my five star. I’m going to place a one star review because this is really upsetting. 5 star fish but what that empolyee did to me really up set me
Gabriel 555
48 reviews
My local favorite petshoppe 💯👍
Amanda B
6 reviews
Store is clean but the tanks and cages are jam packed with animals. One of the bearded dragons was severely malformed and had obvious issues with bone formation. The leopard gecko had little fruit flues or gnats or mites all in the dirt and water dish. The tarantula needed water in its dish. The store used to be really bad and has made obvious improvements but there needs to be more for the well being of the animals. Naked rat has scabs on the head. Selling expired product is not safe for animals. It really needs a revamp.
Trevor Gouert
26 reviews
Awesome Service. The people there are Great👍
CKHWN
5 reviews
I have always had great luck with any purchases i have made. The staff is helpful and friendly. Thank you for having such a great store in our town!
Mumps Jones
Nice people and healthy fish.
Red Colbert
82 reviews
It was a good experience, I purchased feeder mice for my ball pythons. They are much higher quality than feeders from other pet shops
cynthia kubichek
57 reviews
Nice pet shop with fish, reptiles and birds.
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (920) 682-0713 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Colonial Pet Shoppe.
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1310 S 35th St, Manitowoc, WI 54220
February 7, 2026
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