Animal City

For pet enthusiasts across Connecticut, particularly those with a passion for aquatic life, reptiles, or unique small animals, finding a dedicated and well-stocked local store is invaluable. Animal City in Vernon, CT, presents itself as a long-standing establishment aiming to cater to these specific interests. While many pet stores focus primarily on dogs and cats, Animal City steps into the realm of the exotic, offering a diverse selection of fish, reptiles, birds, and small animals, along with the necessary supplies to care for them. This article will delve into what Animal City offers to the Connecticut community, examining its location, product range, and overall suitability for local pet owners.

Animal City positions itself as a destination for those looking for something beyond the conventional pet. With departments dedicated to tropical fish, birds, small animals, and reptiles, it aims to be a comprehensive resource for enthusiasts and new owners alike. The store emphasizes providing a wide selection, often including species that might be harder to find elsewhere. This focus on variety is a key appeal for many in the region seeking specialized pets and equipment.

Animal City is conveniently located at 425 Talcottville Rd, Vernon, CT 06066, USA. Talcottville Road (Route 83) is a main artery in Vernon, ensuring that the store is easily accessible from various parts of Vernon and surrounding towns in Connecticut, such as Manchester, Tolland, and Bolton. Its position on a well-trafficked road means it's straightforward to locate for both regular customers and those visiting for the first time.

The accessibility of Animal City makes it a practical stop for pet owners needing specialized supplies or looking to expand their animal family. Parking is typically available, adding to the convenience of a visit. Being situated in Vernon, a community within the Hartford metropolitan area, allows Animal City to serve a broad demographic of pet enthusiasts across the state, making it a local hub for those interested in diverse pet species.

Animal City aims to be a full-service provider for owners of specific types of pets, offering both live animals and the necessary supplies. Their departments highlight their specialized inventory.

• Tropical & Freshwater Fish: The store boasts a "SUPER selection of freshwater tropical fish from all over the world," with "over 150 freshwater aquariums with 300+ varieties of common, exotic, tropical fish, and more!" This makes it a significant destination for aquatics enthusiasts.
• Reptiles & Amphibians: Animal City states it offers "the healthiest variety of bearded dragons, leopard geckos, red-tail boas, and corn snakes in the region, and more!" They also provide comprehensive "care information" for amphibians, lizards, snakes, and turtles.
• Birds: They offer a selection of "feathered friends" including parakeets, cockatiels, finches, and canaries.
• Small Animals: Customers can find a selection of "little fur-balls" such as guinea pigs, rabbits, hamsters, and ferrets, often emphasizing locally bred livestock.
• Aquarium Plants: Beyond fish, Animal City has an "excellent selection of live aquatic plants and all the supplies and advice" needed for healthy aquariums.
• Feeders: They stock a "largest selection of feeders available in the region," including "fresh, live and frozen feeders for all your pets," catering to reptiles and fish that prefer live food.
• Pet Supplies: The store carries a wide range of general pet supplies specific to the animals they sell, including tanks, terrariums, food, substrates, and accessories.
• Knowledgeable Staff (as per one review): One customer noted the staff as "very knowledgeable," providing useful information for new pet owners, particularly concerning specific animal care.

Animal City is recognized for several key features, though it's important to consider all aspects of customer feedback.

• Extensive Selection of Exotic Pets: A significant highlight is the sheer volume and variety of fish and reptiles available, making it a go-to spot for those seeking specific or less common species like bearded dragons. The promise of "best selection" for these types of animals is a strong draw.
• Specialization in Aquatics and Reptiles: Unlike general pet stores, Animal City's deep inventory in these categories appeals directly to a niche market of pet enthusiasts who appreciate a dedicated resource for their specialized needs.
• Availability of Feeder Animals: The extensive selection of live and frozen feeders is a practical advantage for owners of carnivorous reptiles and fish, saving them from having to visit multiple stores.
• Local "Mom and Pop" Feel (Initial Impression): Some customers initially perceive the store as a local, independent business, which can appeal to those looking to support smaller enterprises.

It is important to acknowledge that some customer experiences highlight areas of concern regarding animal welfare. A review specifically mentioned issues with axolotl housing, including overstocking, lack of hides, nipping behavior leading to missing limbs, and visible dead fish in tanks. Additionally, observations of animals being returned and a general concern about living conditions suggest that while the selection might be broad, potential customers may wish to inquire about animal husbandry practices.

For inquiries about specific animals, product availability, or store hours, Animal City can be reached directly.

Address: 425 Talcottville Rd, Vernon, CT 06066, USA

Phone: (860) 872-3574

Current business hours are:

• Sunday: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
• Monday - Thursday: 1:00 pm - 7:00 pm
• Friday: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
• Saturday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

It is always advisable to call ahead, especially if you are seeking a particular species or product, to confirm availability and ensure a productive visit.

For residents of Connecticut, particularly those in Vernon and the surrounding communities with an interest in exotic pets, Animal City offers a unique and specialized resource. Its extensive selection of freshwater and tropical fish, reptiles (including bearded dragons, geckos, and snakes), birds, and small animals positions it as a significant local destination for these specific pet categories. The availability of a wide array of live and frozen feeders, along with essential supplies, makes it a convenient one-stop shop for enthusiasts. For individuals seeking a particular species that might not be available at larger chain stores, Animal City often provides a broader and more niche inventory, as highlighted by a customer finding their "beautiful light color with orange" bearded dragon here.

However, local patrons prioritizing animal welfare are encouraged to observe the conditions of the animals firsthand and make informed decisions. While the store offers a broad selection and convenience for specific pet needs, the importance of supporting businesses that maintain high standards of animal care is paramount. For those who confirm conditions meet their expectations, Animal City could be a valuable local asset for specialized pet ownership in Connecticut, particularly for its diverse range of exotic animals and associated supplies.

Animal City

425 Talcottville Rd, Vernon, CT 06066, USA