What Do You Do With Fish When You Go on Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

Going on vacation is always an exciting time, but it can also bring up a lot of questions and concerns, especially for fish owners. If you have pet fish, you may be wondering what to do with them while you’re away. Here are some options to consider:

Option 1: Get a Pet Sitter

One of the best ways to ensure your fish are taken care of while you’re on vacation is to hire a pet sitter. This can be someone you know personally or a professional pet sitter who specializes in caring for fish. They can come to your home daily or every other day to feed your fish, check the water temperature and quality, and ensure everything is functioning properly.

Tip: Be sure to leave clear instructions for your pet sitter, including how much food to give your fish and any other specific care requirements.

Option 2: Use an Automatic Feeder

If hiring a pet sitter isn’t feasible or desirable, using an automatic feeder can be a good alternative. These devices dispense food at set intervals throughout the day, ensuring that your fish are fed even when you’re not there.

Tip: Test out the automatic feeder before leaving on vacation to make sure it’s working properly and dispensing the right amount of food.

Option 3: Have a Friend or Family Member Help Out

If hiring a pet sitter isn’t in the budget and you don’t want to use an automatic feeder, asking a friend or family member to check on your fish can be another option. They can come over once or twice during your trip to feed your fish and make sure everything is running smoothly.

Tip: Be sure to express gratitude towards whoever helps out with your pets while you’re away by bringing back small gifts from your trip.

Option 4: Move Your Fish to a Temporary Home

If you’re going to be away for an extended period of time or have particularly sensitive or high-maintenance fish, moving them to a temporary home may be the best option. This can include boarding your fish at a local pet store or asking a friend who also owns fish to take care of them while you’re away.

Tip: Be sure to acclimate your fish to their new environment gradually and provide clear instructions for their care.

In conclusion, there are several options available for caring for your fish while you’re on vacation. Whether that means hiring a pet sitter, using an automatic feeder, asking a friend or family member for help, or moving your fish to a temporary home, it’s important to find the right solution that works for both you and your pets.