Keeping Gold Fish as Pets

Keeping Gold Fish as Pets…

Lifespan: Can live up to 20 years with some breeds!

Temperament: Playful, Affectionate, Calming!

Size: 2inches – 15inches

Photo by Protographer23 on Flickr

Believe or not but Goldfish do have a good memory. They even have their own distinct personalities, making them lovely pets to have at any age.

Goldfish originated from China and since their domestication about 1000 years ago, many breeds have cropped up. Breeds of course include Comets, Fantails, Shubunkins and the some of the more unusual types such as Celestials, Black Moors, Ranchu and Orandas. Size and shape varies greatly from breed, as does colouration.

Goldfish are hardy pets suitable for ponds or aquariums (we don’t recommend putting some goldfish with delicate features in ponds as they may hurt themselves, ie Bubble-eyes and Butterlfly Tails).

The set-up itself will vary with the breed.  A simple tank and pump with regular cleaning (no more than 40% water changes, approx 20-25% is best) will cater for most, as will a 6ft tank incorporated in your wall or a pond in your garden. It depends on your budget and space. Please do not over stock your pond/aquarium as this can affect the health of your fish.

The set-up can be as expensive or inexpensive as you like. General care thereafter is usually straight forward and not costly. You do, as with any other pet, need to put in some time approximately once a week/fortnight (depending on how many fish you have in whatever sized tank) to clean your tank/pond.

NOTE please ensure you condition tap water as it contains chemicals harmful to fish.

Vital Vet Animal Hospital