Exotic pets being abandoned in the wild – how often does that happen? Who would do a thing like that?

When you realize that most fish sold in pet stores are considered “exotics” – it just means they’re not native to the country – you can see it’s really not an unusual event.

At least 185 exotic fish species have been found in U.S. waters, says the U.S. Geological Survey, and over half of those species got there through “release or escape of aquarium fishes”. Lots of people, apparently, have been slipping their unwanted pet fish into the nearest river or lake.

Most of them probably would never dream of dumping a cat or dog in the wilderness. It seems less cruel, somehow, with fish – but that’s an illusion. Releasing a pet fish is always harmful to it or some other creature.

First, 90% of exotic fish don’t survive after being released, as scientist Paul L. Shafland told the U.S.G.S. They’re stressed and an easy target for predators.

The ones that survive may compete with native fish for food, or even prey on the native fish. They may spread exotic diseases or parasites. They also can contribute to overcrowding, especially if they start breeding (75 exotic species have).

If you need to re-home your fish, search online for “fish rescue”. If there’s no fish rescue society in your area, try these U.S.G.S. suggestions:

· Pet stores
· The local zoo or aquarium
· Schools, nursing homes – even prisons might want the fish.

If your fish is sick, a vet can euthanize it if necessary. You can do this yourself simply by putting it in a container of water in the freezer. The U.S.G.S. says, “Because cold temperature is a natural anesthetic to tropical fishes, this is considered a very humane method of euthanasia.” Still, let’s hope you don’t have to do this!

There’s always a better way than abandonment.