Stupid Co-worker

[fishdudein]

Thanks guys. It's frustrating but I have to learn to tune it out. Hey fishdudein, I remember going to the "dime store" with my mom when I was a kid (20-25 years ago), Woolworth's, right? Anyway we were there at least once a week and I was always looking at the fish they kept there. Always loved the fish. Never had any dechlorinator back then but my dad always made me let the water sit at least 24 hours before putting in in the fish tank. I even had a power filter back then. Used it for years and years and never had a problem with it. We even made our own sponges for it. Ahh, the good old days . . .

The small town we lived in, it was called the "Index". Couple times a month we would drive to the larger town about 30 miles away, they had a Woolworth's, Kresge's, that's the only 2 coming to mind right now, and also a real pet shop (this was back in the 60's- I remember there being dogs, cats, all manner of small animals, parrots and other birds, and a monkey in addition to the fish). I always looked forward to these trips, and, like you, was fascinated in the fish section. Mom always knew where to find me.

Hartz Mountain made all the fish food that was for sale in these places, as well as most of all the rest of the pet supplies. Not many other options available, unlike today.

I remember those first power filters. Before those, there was a hang-on-the-back type filter called a "Bubble-Up", worked with an air pump, that were very popular.

 

[fishdudein]

I went to the Sesame Street site and wrote this:

I am writing in regards to Elmo's pet goldfish Dorothy. I am certain you are not aware of this but keeping a goldfish in a bowl, although a common sight, is a terrible thing to do to any fish. Goldfish can grow to be quite large and can live for many years. They deserve to live in something larger than a goldfish bowl. Do some research on goldfish and you will learn how to properly care for this animal.

I am a fishkeeper and a parent. I watch Elmo's World on Sesame Street every morning with my daughter. Luckily I know a little bit about fish so I can explain to my daughter that she should never keep a goldfish in a bowl. But what about all of the other well-meaning parents out there that think they're doing something nice for their child when they get he or she their very own Dorothy? What they are really doing is perpetrating more cruelty towards goldfish. I'm sure that is not your intention.

Please buy Dorothy a bigger tank.

I doubt they will respond but I'll let you know if they do.

Well done. The Goldfish Gods are putting a gold star next to your name.

Hope they reply.

 

[BobK]

I wish I could remember the brand/model of power filter I had. It was probably around 1980 and the filter was green and it took cartridges just like the ones today that are filled with carbon. I want to say it was from Tetra but I really don't remember.