How to Care for your Betta Fish While on Vacation

Fish are generally low maintenance pets, but they do require some care and attention. Like all pets they require some planning when going on vacation and your Betta fish is no different. Whether you are taking a weekend trip or an extended journey, don't forget to plan for the care of your precious finned friend. Not sure what is required? Start here.

Things You'll Need

  • Betta food
  • A trusted friend or neighbor
  • Betta medicines in case they get sick while you are gone
  • Tank heater
  • A prepared list of how to feed and do water changes
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Instructions

  1. How to Care for your Betta Fish While on Vacation

    • 1

      Feed your Betta right before leaving the house for a weekend or three day trip and forget about it. Betta's can survive for a few days without food (which is why they make good office pets) but be sure to give them all they can eat right before you leave and make you do your weekly water change before your departure as well. Don't forget to say hello to your fish as soon as you come back and treat them to some treats and flakes.

    • 2

      Double check that all tanks or bowls are covered so your fishies won't commit "Bettaside." Be sure to keep your thermostat on or equip your bowls with tank heaters to keep them nice and warm while you're away.

    • 3

      If you are going on a longer trip, entrust the fish to a true friend who will follow your written directions and maintain your fish in the healthy state it was in when you left. Be sure to teach them how to feed and change the water if you will be gone longer than a week.

    • 4

      If you don't have a friend or loved one nearby and want to ask a neighbor to help you out, again, teach them how to care for your Betta and leave a detailed list. Be sure to pay your helper, as they will take the responsibility more seriously.

    • 5

      Finally, leave a contact phone number in case one of your pets gets sick or develops an infection. Do some shopping ahead of time so that your helper has what he/she may need to start the healing process.