It’s summer, which means that fairs and carnivals are prevalent.  At many of these events, there are games with highly desirable prizes, such as stuffed animals, over-sized lollipops, and goldfish.  While the stuffed animal easily is stored on a shelf and the lollipop will be eaten within a day or two, what is one to do with a goldfish?

While goldfish (or other small fish) may make excellent first pets, there are things to consider.

1.  Goldfish can live for 5-10 years.  While this prize is won with a few throws of a beanbag, this pet will be with you for much longer.

2.  Goldfish should live in tanks that have filters.  This will keep their water cleaner, providing a healthier life for your fish.

3.  In addition to a filter, your fish will benefit from having decorative plants, rocks, and other assorted items in its tank.  If fish have places to hide, they feel more secure and will be happier.  Make sure you use items that are made specifically for fish tanks.  Even though you may have appropriately sized knick-knacks floating about your home, these items could be dirty or be made with materials that will make your fish ill.

4.  You do need to clean the tank.  Even with a filter, there is cleaning to be done.  However, you should replace only 10-20 percent of the water each week.

5.  Although you do need to maintain their tank, feeding  a goldfish is easy.  Provide a few flakes of food once daily.  Any food that is not eaten within 5-10 minutes should be removed.  If the food isn’t eaten immediately, it won’t be eaten and will make the tank dirty.