Pets Supported:  

While Big Al’s is first and foremost an aquarium supplies resource, they do offer supplies for other animals as well. They’ve got things like food and vitamins for birds; litter scoops and more for cats; treats, leashes, toys and food for dogs; and so much more including supplies for ponds. We were impressed, actually with the wide range of supplies available for an aquarium site. While they have their main focus, they do provide at least enough to get by to support other kinds of animals as well.

Selection:  

However, the selection of products for other kinds of pets is lacking and difficult to navigate. They do have a wide variety of categories to choose from like toys, apparel and dental care but there isn't a wide variety of brands available.

Features:  

We liked the overall design of the front page, making the important information easy to access and a little more eye-catching than most pet supplies sites. With a search bar at the top for those who know exactly what they want, and images announcing where to find the newest products and discount items you won’t get lost on the site.

Drilling down on the site also has several layers of convenience. Each product has a full on product description with the important information you need to know before you purchase, but it also lists accessories that would go with that product. Like, for example, you were getting a pump shelf for your aquarium, Big Al’s kindly recommends you should also, or first, get an air pump to go with that shelf.
 

Payment Options:  

Big Al’s Online makes checking out easy with the option to use PayPal, but they also accept all the major credit cards and a money order. Also, for every purchase you get VIP points that can be redeemed at purchase.

Security:  

In order to keep you information secure and to make it easier when you come back, Big Al’s has you create an account before you make any purchases. This keeps your information secure, and also keeps your billing information in one place so that you don’t have to enter it every time you make a purchase.

Customer Support:  

Big Al’s Online offers just about every customer service option that one might imagine. Telephone support is available, the customer service page is available 24/7 or you can opt to communicate with them by email. An online order tracker is also provided and they provide FAQs for answers to commonly asked questions. In general, their web site is equipped with multiple tools for helping you make informed decisions about pet product purchases, especially aquariums.

As an aquarium site, Big Al’s online would probably rank high compared to other sites as specialized as it is. However, because they offer other animal supplies as well, they lack the same level of supplies and commitment in those other areas.

How do other leading online pet supplies retailers compare to Big Al’s Online? Read our reviews of PetSmart and PETCO for details.