Business Details
29 Years
experience
Your Trusted Exotic Pet Store in Lubbock, TX
Founded in 1997 by Ryan Blakley, our business began as a passion project driven by a lifelong fascination with exotic animals. Over 25 years, we've grown into a trusted destination in West Texas for unique pets and expert care guidance. Our team specializes in reptiles, amphibians, tropical birds, and small mammals, offering extensive knowledge about proper habitats and nutrition. In 2023, Brandon Hise assumed leadership while maintaining our original commitment to ethical animal care. Our signature attraction, The Jungle, features ringtail lemurs, primates, and rare reptiles for public education.We provide comprehensive supplies, custom enclosures, and special order services through our vast network. Our mission remains focused on connecting customers with extraordinary animals while ensuring their well-being. We offer educational programs and interactive experiences like the popular Sloth Encounter. Located in Lubbock, Texas, we serve both casual pet enthusiasts and serious collectors. With decades of combined experience, we stand behind every animal we sell with expert post-purchase support.
Services
Exotic pets
Reptiles
Amphibians
Small mammals
Special orders
Sloth Encounter
Educational talks
Pet supplies
Custom habitats
Gift cards
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of specialized exotic pet expertise
- Our unique Jungle exhibit features rare primates and reptiles
- We provide expert post-purchase animal care guidance
- We maintain strict ethical standards for animal welfare
- Our special order network accesses global animal inventory
Associations and certifications
- US ARK
Services
Exotic Pets
We offer an extensive selection of exotic animals including reptiles, amphibians, tropical birds, and small mammals. Our inventory features both common and rare species sourced ethically. Customers receive expert guidance on proper care, habitat setup, and nutrition for their unique companions.
Sloth Encounter
Our signature interactive exhibit allows visitors to engage with sloths in a controlled environment. This supervised experience includes educational components about sloth behavior and conservation. Reservations recommended for guaranteed access during peak hours.
Special Orders
We facilitate acquisition of hard-to-find exotic species through our global breeder network. This service includes import coordination, quarantine arrangements, and complete care package preparation. Available for both private collectors and institutional clients.
Educational Talks
Our experts deliver presentations covering exotic pet care, habitat conservation, and species-specific biology. Programs available for schools, scout groups, and private events. Includes live animal demonstrations with appropriate safety measures.
Pet Supplies
We stock complete care packages including enclosures, heating systems, dietary supplements, and cleaning equipment. Our inventory covers specific needs for reptiles, amphibians, and exotic mammals. Staff provides recommendations for age- and species-appropriate product selection.
People
Ryan Blakley
Founder
Founded Walter's World of Pets in 1997 after decades of reptile breeding experience. Originated The Jungle exhibit concept featuring exotic species. Maintained strict ethical standards for animal care throughout business operations.
Brandon Hise
Owner
Assumed ownership in 2023 after working closely with founder Ryan Blakley. Expanded special order capabilities and enhanced educational programming. Continues commitment to ethical exotic pet trade practices.
Questions
What exotic animals do you currently have available?
Our inventory changes regularly but typically includes multiple reptile species, amphibians, small mammals, and arachnids. Check our website or call for current availability.
Can I special order an unusual pet species?
Yes, we facilitate special orders through our global breeder network. Lead times vary depending on species availability and import requirements.
Is the Sloth Encounter suitable for children?
Yes, our supervised Sloth Encounter works for all ages with appropriate safety precautions. Reservations recommended for best experience timing.
Do you offer care guidance after purchase?
We provide comprehensive care instructions and ongoing support for all animals purchased through our store.
Are you affiliated with any animal welfare organizations?
We maintain membership with US ARK (United States Association of Reptile Keepers) and follow their ethical guidelines.
Reviews (7)
Joy Sung
Jun 28, 2022
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They have professional and friendly staff helping us. And the frozen pet food I bought there are always fresh and cheaper than other places. One of the best places in Lubbock!
Lee Rodriguez
Jun 04, 2022
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Love coming into Walter's the staff is friendly and they have unique animals. So much fun to just go and look around!
Sos Joksjs
May 27, 2022
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Worst place ever just go my hermit crab LOST ALL IT BODY PARTS. I did not abuse or nothing this morning found her dead so never come to this store they don't take care of there animals first thing I got her and she was breaking apart
Zsh D. Z.
May 16, 2022
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It's a cool place that has exotic animals but they are super cramped. I bought an Asian Forrest scorpion and it's been living in this plastic tub. It's tail couldn't fully extend because the scorpion is too big for the tub. Please if any employee sees this comment please put them in better habits to walk around in. -this was a few months ago Edit: Today I swung by to see what yall had and I noticed you changed the tarantulas, scorpions, & centipedes enclosure.
They have much more room now . I was worried for the big scorpion cause it's tail was getting scrunched by the lid but yall put them in bigger boxes and stuff now. I will say I greatly appreciate that yall listened to your community. I have changed my review to 5 stars. I plan to buy my boyfriend a badass tarantula there here soon. Respectfully thank you for taking better care of the animals that shows yall care and notice small things.
They have much more room now . I was worried for the big scorpion cause it's tail was getting scrunched by the lid but yall put them in bigger boxes and stuff now. I will say I greatly appreciate that yall listened to your community. I have changed my review to 5 stars. I plan to buy my boyfriend a badass tarantula there here soon. Respectfully thank you for taking better care of the animals that shows yall care and notice small things.
Adam Rosenthal
May 15, 2022
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This place is always fun to visit because of all the exotic animals to see and buy that you'd rarely see elsewhere anywhere. Many of the most exotic they have, such as their spider monkey, large snakes, a toucan, iguanas, chameleons, monitors, etc. are in a special zoo area in the back of the building which is $4 per person to see, but well worth it. I don't have any exotic animals but I love visiting this place.
Maximum Web
May 09, 2022
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I have been to Walters a few times over the years and the way they care for and cage the animals is heartbreaking. To make matters worse, after looking at reviews from other people, it is appalling how unprofessional and nasty the owner is in his responses. "Unprofessional" is an understatement. Personal attacks and cursing people out for sharing a review, even when it does not put the store in a positive light is no reason to throw a fit and personally attack people. This mentality and reaction tells people all they need to know about your character and why these animals are mistreated. It's shameful.
John Salazar
Mar 09, 2022
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Great pet store. Had a great selection of pets different than all others around with a awesome viewing of unique reptiles like giant lizards and tortious including a cool little viper. I recommend this place if you want a healthy and cool little pet.
