(Sylvie Belmond | CLAIR – Simi Valley, CA) — Owning an aquarium can be a rewarding experience, but sometimes circumstances change, and keeping fish or other aquatic pets is no longer feasible. Whether you’re moving, facing financial constraints, or simply no longer able to maintain your tank, it’s important to handle the situation responsibly. If you live in Simi Valley and need to rehome your fish or aquatic life, there are several options available to ensure their safety and well-being.
Why Releasing Fish Into the Wild Is Not an Option
One of the worst things an aquarium owner can do is release fish into local lakes, ponds, or rivers. Many non-native species can become invasive, disrupt local ecosystems, or fail to survive in the wild. Even if a species is freshwater and appears to be able to adapt, diseases from home aquariums can spread to wild fish populations, creating unintended consequences. The best course of action is to find a suitable new home for your aquatic pets, as advised by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Local Aquarium Stores That May Accept Fish
Several pet stores and aquarium businesses in Simi Valley may be able to help you rehome your fish.
Aquarium Connection, a family-owned business located at 1663 E. Los Angeles Avenue, specializes in aquarium maintenance, custom tanks, and aquatic life. While they primarily sell fish, they may accept certain species or offer recommendations for rehoming. They can be reached at (805) 497-3444 or through their website at TheAquariumConnection.com.
Peter’s Tropical Fish, a well-established shop at 1836 Erringer Road, has served the Simi Valley community for decades and is known for its wide selection of tropical fish. They may be able to accept unwanted fish or provide valuable guidance on rehoming. For more information, call (805) 584-6664 or visit YellowPages.com.
Petco in Simi Valley, located at 2643 Tapo Canyon Road, generally does not take in unwanted fish. However, they may be able to offer helpful advice on finding a new home for your aquatic pets. Some locations even provide community bulletin boards where you can post about fish available for adoption. You can contact them at (805) 584-8220 or visit their website at Petco.com.
Ultimate Aquarium Service, a local business based in Simi Valley, specializes in aquarium setup and maintenance. Although they may not directly accept unwanted fish, they could serve as a valuable resource in connecting you with someone looking to adopt them. To inquire about possible rehoming options, call (805) 813-1660 or check out YellowPages.com.
Other Ways to Rehome Your Fish
If local pet stores are unable to take your fish, there are still plenty of ways to find them a new home.
Aquarium hobbyist groups can be a great place to start. Many fishkeepers are constantly looking to adopt fish or corals for their tanks. You can connect with enthusiasts through Facebook groups such as “Simi Valley Fish Keepers” or join discussions on Reddit communities like r/Aquariums and r/ReefTank. These online forums provide opportunities to meet fellow hobbyists who may be eager to give your fish a new home.
Another great option is reaching out to local aquarium clubs. Southern California is home to several organizations, including the Southern California Marine Aquarium Society (SCMAS), which often assists in finding new homes for fish. You can learn more by visiting their website at officialscmas.com.
If you prefer to list your fish for adoption online, there are several platforms that make it easy to connect with potential new owners. Websites like Craigslist allow you to post in the Pets or Free section, while Nextdoor provides a community-focused social network where neighbors can help rehome fish. Additionally, dedicated fish hobbyist forums like Reef2Reef and AquaticCommunity are excellent places to connect with responsible fishkeepers.
For those who want to ensure their fish go to a rescue organization, there are non-profits that specialize in aquarium pet rehoming. While not based in Simi Valley, organizations such as Fish Rescue and Welfare are dedicated to helping fish find new homes. You can learn more about their services at fishrescueandwelfare.org.
How to Prepare Your Fish for Rehoming
Before handing over your fish to a new owner, it’s essential to take a few important steps to ensure a smooth transition. First, check that your fish are healthy, as rehoming sick or infected fish can create problems for their new environment. Providing detailed information about the fish’s species, dietary needs, and tank requirements will also help the new owner care for them properly.
When transporting the fish, use a plastic bag filled with their existing tank water, or place them in a small container with an air hole to ensure they have enough oxygen during the journey. Lastly, always take the time to verify that the new owner has the proper setup to care for the fish, ensuring they will continue to thrive in a safe and suitable environment.
What to Do with Your Aquarium and Equipment
If you are giving up your entire setup, there are several ways to repurpose your tank and accessories. You can choose to sell or donate the equipment through online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or OfferUp. Some local schools, community centers, or nursing homes may also be interested in starting an aquarium and could benefit from your donation. Additionally, some pet stores may accept used tanks and supplies, so it’s worth calling around to see if any local shops are interested.
Simi Valley offers multiple resources for residents who need to rehome their fish responsibly. Whether you choose to work with a local aquarium shop, connect with an enthusiast group, or reach out to a fish rescue, there are many ethical options available to ensure your aquatic pets find a suitable new home. It is crucial to remember that releasing fish into the wild is not a humane or responsible choice, as emphasized by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call the pet stores listed above or seek advice from online aquarium communities. By taking the right steps, you can ensure your fish continue to thrive in a safe and appropriate environment.
