- The RSPCA is urging the government and local councils across England to ban funfairs from giving away goldfish in plastic bags as prizes.
- The animal welfare charity highlights that goldfish suffer immense pain and stress, including shock and oxygen starvation, when kept in small bags, often dying before reaching their new homes.
- Over 160 English councils and all 22 Welsh local authorities have already restricted this activity on their land, but the RSPCA is calling for a complete ban on both council and private land.
- Goldfish are sentient beings that can live for up to 30 years and grow significantly, requiring substantial water space, which is not provided in the small bags given as prizes.
- A recent survey indicated strong public support, with nearly three-quarters of adults agreeing that local governments should ban giving pets as prizes.
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