On a number of occasions OATA has been asked for a statement on the use of fish, in particular goldfish as prizes. In the office we receive complaints from retailers following fairs and other shows offering live fish. Local retailers have in some cases, been inundated by members of the public wishing to know what should be done with the fish they have won.

It is sometimes forgotten that fish are living animals!

Our response has been that we would encourage anyone wishing to own an animal to make an informed and deliberate decision to obtain one, rather than to do so on the spur of the moment.

Any business offering fish to the public by way of trade, whether in a pet shop, garden centre or fairground should at least meet the conditions (for instance stocking, holding and water quality criteria) applied by the District council to pet shops in that area.