We are asking the Alameda County Fair to stop giving out goldfish -- or any live animal -- as prizes at all future events.

Animal Welfare Concerns:

Owning a pet is a commitment that requires planning and preparation; it shouldn't be a spontaneous act for short-term amusement.

This practice subjects fish to unnecessary stress, neglect, and premature death due to improper care by recipients who are not knowledegable or ready for the responsibility.

At this year's fair, the temperature reached 107°. Transporting a fish in a tiny container -- possibly for hours -- creates an incredibly stressful situation for the fish.

Environmental Concerns:

People who no longer want their fish may resort to dumping them into a nearby lake or river, which can disrupt the local ecosystem, compete with native species for resources, and potentially introduce diseases and parasites. 

Berkeley has made it illegal to award fish as prizes:

The city of Berkeley (part of Alameda County) adopted an ordinance (10.12.235) banning the use of live fish as prizes at carnivals and fairs in 2017. (KTVU article). 

San Mateo County Fair has updated its policy to prohibit awarding live animals as prizes:

The San Mateo County Fair, another Bay Area fair that contracts with Butler Amusements, updated their contract in 2024 to explicitly state that no live animals can be awarded as prizes at their events.

View the petition which prompted the San Mateo fair to update their contract here: San Mateo County Fair Goldfish as Prizes

San Joaquin County fair has updated its policy to prohibit awarding live animals as prizes:

View the petition here: San Joaquin County Fair Goldfish as Prizes

Alameda County Fair, let's set an example

By ending the practice of awarding live fish as prizes, the Alameda County Fair can set an example for communities across the nation by leaving this archaic practice behind.

Let's encourage responsible pet ownership and take a proactive step to prevent unnecessary animal suffering.