As an active member of various goldfish groups and an owner of these fascinating creatures myself, I've been witness to a disheartening reality. Many people end up with goldfish from carnivals and fairs that they did not anticipate owning. Sadly, these unplanned pets often receive inadequate care owing to their owners' lack of knowledge and preparation, which is a deep cause for concern.

Even our perceptions of goldfish need a shift. They aren't just disposable 'prizes', they are sentient beings capable of learning and navigating through complex situations. This was evident from a recent study where scientists managed to train goldfish to operate a motorized vehicle successfully. Search for the Dodo’s story in May 2024 for details. Clearly, they don't deserve to be treated trivially, or unintentionally abused.

Game-related industries argue that giving away goldfish as prizes is a harmless tradition, relying on the incorrect assumption that goldfish are similar to plants in that they do not feel pain or have any memory of their surroundings. However, tradition should never be a justification for causing distress or harm to any creature. Given that goldfish can live for 10-15 years, handing them out recklessly as prizes leads to an increase in pet neglect and abuse, if not willful abandonment or flushing.

By banning the use of goldfish as prizes, we can reduce these instances of neglect and promote responsible pet ownership. It would be a strong step towards recognizing and respecting the lives and rights of goldfish, and animals in general.

Let's raise our voices together against this harmful practice and advocate for the fair treatment of goldfish. Sign the petition. My hope is to get enough signatures to begin connecting with animal lobbyists in each state. I doubt we can pass anything at a federal level, but if signers help share this with local government we can make small steps towards changing local laws. Let's make a difference in their lives.