There are many folks who would love to have a pet but without the responsibilities of walking a dog or changing a litter box. One has to have tons of respect for theses folks that have NOT gotten one of theses pets because they knew this, rather than trying it and then getting rid of the animal. There is hope for these folks! Fish! Yes, fish!
There are so many different kinds of tropical fresh water and salt water fish available in an array of sizes, shapes and colors! Some of the aquariums are incredibly gorgeous!
Let's talk easy fish. So we think goldfish. Right? Wrong!
Remember as a child going to the pet store and purchasing that first goldfish?
You'd take it home watch it swim around for a few weeks and shortly after see it float to the top. Then, often times, the process would begin again!
Something was definitely wrong with this picture! Goldfish are not the "easy" fish that we all thought we knew. These fish have very specific needs. Putting them into a tiny fish bowl is not one of them! They grow and can get quite large requiring at least a 20 gallon tank to start. They produce a tremendous amount of waste and ammonia, so a good filtration system is a must!
If you really want a fish that is nice and easy, and yes absolutely gorgeous, look into the Beta or Siamese fighting fish. They are called this because if you put two males together they fight to the death.
Females do not have the distinctive, large, flowing fins of the males, but do live in groups.
These beauties are labyrinth fish; they live in still water and do not require much space. No filtration is needed as they swim to the top for air, forming tiny bubbles along the top. They should be kept in water of at least 20C degrees preferably up to 23C. Feeding should be done once a day. The water should be changed ever other day. If you do have a cat, a cover over the bowl will prevent kitty from thinking it has a new toy!
These relatively easy fish are captivating to watch! Some even have personality! When wanting a pet that is very enjoyable and relatively easy to care for yet mesmerizing to watch, think Beta!As like any pet that you are considering, do as much research first!
On another note: One of favourite MLA's Pat Bell and his wife Brenda recently welcome Gigi into their home. The Malamute is a welcome addition to Prince George's thriving pet population.
