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About DRD Knaagdierwinkel®
From passion to leading specialist in rodent welfare
DRD Knaagdierwinkel® started in 2011 as a small-scale initiative, driven by the personal passion and expertise of founder Marika Stoevelaar — a dedicated rodent enthusiast with a clear vision: improving the welfare of rodents through responsible products, reliable information, and genuine involvement. Specialised in hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small rodents
Start here: All categories · Brands · Hamster · Guinea pig · Rabbit · Service & contact
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✓ Specialist since 2011
Focused on welfare, safety and practical everyday usability.
✓ No dropshipping
We deliver from our own stock in the Netherlands. This way, we keep control over storage, quality and supply reliability.
✓ Consciously European
We deliberately choose European products and partners, not anonymous bulk imports from China.
Our story
DRD Knaagdierwinkel® started in 2011 as a small-scale initiative in Hoogeveen. What mattered then still matters now: small animals deserve serious attention. Not just “a cage and some food”, but an environment that matches their behaviour and needs.
From our first location at Zeppelinstraat 11H (approx. 67 m²) we grew quickly. Within a year we moved to Zeppelinstraat 11B (approx. 137 m²) and later to our current location at De Lavalstraat 5 in Hoogeveen with over 500 m². For stock and supply reliability, we also have an external warehouse of another 500 m².
✓ Growth driven by demand for high-quality, animal-friendly products
✓ Extensive stock for fast delivery and better availability
✓ Converted to DRD Knaagdierwinkel B.V. in 2024 and expansion with Vogelwinkel.nl
Three specialists, one mission
Over the years, our knowledge has continued to deepen. To make that expertise tangible, we work within DRD from three clear specialisations. Not marketing figures, but a translation of how we think and work: with focus, commitment and expertise.
Specialist small rodents & habitat setup
He represents everything related to small (omnivorous) rodents: mice, dwarf hamsters, hamsters, gerbils, rats and other small gnawers. From hamsterscaping and bedding to balanced nutrition and enrichment — always focused on natural behaviour and practical usability.
Herbivore & welfare specialist
She safeguards the foundation of healthy nutrition and care for herbivorous rodents, such as guinea pigs and rabbits. Hay as the basis, balanced nutrition and attention to digestive health are central to her approach.
Craftsmanship & natural compositions
He represents our love for natural products. Leaves, flowers, roots and herbs are carefully selected for quality, origin and composition.
Behind these specialisations stands a dedicated team that works daily on product selection, improving information and advice. Our specialists form the core of how we think: not broad and superficial, but in-depth and intentional. Since 2011, we have continued to develop this expertise every day — in assortment, information and advice.
Since 2011, we have continued to develop this expertise every day — in assortment, information and advice.
Our mission: more than a webshop
From day one, we wanted to be more than a supplier. We want to be a place where you can turn to for product quality and knowledge. So you don’t have to guess, but understand what you’re doing – and why it works for your animal.
- Responsible, safe and innovative products that match natural behaviour.
- In-house development when we see opportunities to make it smarter, safer or more animal-friendly.
- Education and knowledge sharing for pet owners and professionals (also towards education and training centres).
- Awareness for animals that are often underestimated, but benefit from a thoughtful approach.
“My heart lies with small animals. If you understand their behaviour, you naturally make different choices: more space, more enrichment and a habitat that truly fits.”
— Marika Stoevelaar
Quality & origin
We deliberately choose control and transparency. That means: no “quick dropship”, no anonymous bulk, but an assortment we can confidently recommend.
What this means in practice
- ✓ No dropshipping: delivery from our own stock in the Netherlands.
- ✓ Consciously European: where possible, we choose European products and partners, not anonymous bulk imports from China.
- ✓ Careful storage: stock is stored UV-neutral (without direct sunlight) and handled neatly.
- ✓ Reviewed by experts: our team looks at safety, material choice and practical usability for small animals.
- ✓ Clear information: photos, descriptions and guides help prevent wrong purchases.
Knowledge & guidance
We think it’s important that you feel confident about your choices. That’s why we create information pages, guides and inspiration to help you get started – from basic setup to practical tips on nutrition, bedding, enrichment and safety.
✓ Information pages
Clear explanations per species and topic, so you quickly understand what does and doesn’t fit.
✓ Inspiration & basic setup
Practical starting points and examples you can apply directly in your habitat.
✓ Personal help
Can’t figure it out? Send us your situation (species + habitat size + what you’re looking for), and we’ll think along with you.
Need help choosing?
Feel free to send us a message via Service & contact. Briefly tell us which animal it concerns, what habitat size you have and what your goal is (e.g. basic setup, bedding, nutrition, enrichment). Already ordered? Add your order number — that helps us check faster.
Own brands
DRD now develops and produces its own products under multiple brand names. This allows us to continue developing quality, safety and ease of use.
- DRD Knaagdierwinkel® – the trusted core assortment for rodents and rabbits.
- De Knaagdier Kruidenier® – natural herbs, snacks and feeds for rabbits and rodents.
- Vogelwinkel® – the best for birds, with the same focus on welfare and quality.
View: all brands and all categories.
Affiliated with Dibevo
DRD Knaagdierwinkel® is affiliated with Dibevo, the trade association for the pet industry. This fits how we work: professional, transparent and with attention to quality and customer interests. Where applicable, we use the independent Dibevo Disputes Committee for clear handling.
A professional foundation — exactly what you should expect.
The future
Our ambition remains strong: to be the knowledge centre and quality brand for rodent and rabbit care in Europe. With a dedicated team, a growing network and a clear focus on welfare, we improve every day — in assortment, information and service.
✓ Specialist since 2011 – with heart for small animals
✓ Consciously European, no dropshipping, delivery from our own stock
✓ Guidance and knowledge: so you can choose with confidence
