The practice of keeping fish in the home came
about in the late 1800's. These fish were usually kept for short periods of
time, and were used as a food source. Home aquariums were generally kept only in
coastal towns where the fish were readily accessible. Today, however many things
of changed. We wouldn't dream of dipping a net into an aquarium and frying up
the family pet for dinner. That's what Red Lobster is for. Home aquariums are
for our personal entertainment and enjoyment. Aquariums add life and colour to
any room. They soothe sick patients at doctor's offices, and entertain small
children while their parents are shopping at Nordstrom.
When considering adopting a family pet, think fish. They are a good compromise
when your children are eying that puppy in the window of the local pet store.
Aquariums need little care in comparison to cats, dogs and even birds. When
going out of town, it is acceptable to leave the fish alone for a week or even
longer. Just have a neighbour feed them once or twice. There is no grooming or
bathing needed for fish. While a home aquarium does require regular maintenance
and cleaning, it is minor compared to the care required for larger pets.
Aquariums are usually less costly, as well. Dogs and cats require regular visits
to the veterinarian, vaccinations, flea and tick medications, etc. Last year the
purchase of pet toys was a billion dollar industry. We don't have to worry about
buying a tug rope or a stuffed friend for our fish.
An aquarium is less of a commitment than larger pets, and can still be a welcome
addition to the family home. Aquariums are great learning tools for small
children. Kids get excited if they are involved in process. They can learn
responsibility by having to help with the chores associated with aquarium care.
Teach the children how to feed the fish and how to clean the tank. Aquariums are
very handy for helping kids develop language skills, as well. It's amazing how
much conversation can take place between a two-year old and an aquarium. Let the
kids name the fish. Have discussions and ask questions like, what colour is that
fish? What are the fish doing today? Count the fish. Just be careful with
counting.
If one of the fish has decided to eat some of its
tank mates that could turn into a different type of learning experience
altogether. This doesn't necessarily have to be a bad thing; you just have to be
prepared for it. After all, kids do have to learn about the cycle of life and
death somehow. It would certainly be a lot easier to cope with the death of
goldfish as a child's first loss, rather than a human family member.
In these times of having five hundred plus cable channels and excessive video
games, an aquarium can be a refreshing touch to a home. The next time you sit
down for a family dinner, try looking at the aquarium instead of the television.
You never know, it may just start an actual conversation.
