Pet owners thinking about releasing their goldfish or allowing domesticated animals to roam free in the wild should think twice, according to an Ontario advocacy group.
The Invasive Species Centre is highlighting the dangers of releasing domestic pets by partnering with a new art exhibit at Evergreen Brick Works in Toronto.
While animal lovers might consider releasing pets on moral or compassionate grounds, the Invasive Species Centre notes that could jeopardize ecosystem health and harm pets that are unable to adapt to changing conditions.
An exhibit by artist Laura Fedynyszyn aims to highlight the dangers of letting domestic pets loose. The display is open the public until April 30.
Pets can become invasive in the wild
The Invasive Species Centre notes domestic pets and aquarium life like fish, invertebrates, aquatic plants, reptiles, amphibians, or mammals can become invasive when released into natural environments.
Released pets can out-compete native species for resources, prey on native species and contribute to habitat degradation, the centre warns.
For example, a pet goldfish released into a stormwater pond could alter the native ecosystem.
A common pet goldfish will bottom feed on small algae, invertebrates, and other fish eggs. Bottom feeding can increase turbidity and limit sunlight needed for native aquatic life. This can also reduce available oxygen, which contributes to algae blooms, the centre said in a news release.
‘Fool’s Gold’ installation
“Fool’s Gold,” Fedynyszyn’s art installation, consists of lino prints on decorative paper and discarded book pages. The display includes themes of climate change and environmentalism. The installation features a school of fish to represent the fragile state of southern Ontario’s aquatic ecosystems.
Rebecca D’Orazio, aquatic invasive species specialist at the Invasive Species Centre, said the art piece is a powerful visual reminder of the responsibility of pet owners to protect both their animals and the natural environment. “Invasive species are a leading driver in the loss of biodiversity globally. The small action of not letting your pet loose has large positive impacts,” said D’Orazio.
Goldfish taking over
“Well-meaning community members have been releasing pet goldfish into the wild for years,” D’Orazio added. “However, this highly adaptive species of fish is now steadily taking over southern Ontario’s freshwater ponds and rivers, reducing native species of fish and plants. Laura’s art installation raises attention to this issue.”
What to consider before purchasing a pet
Prospective pet owners are encouraged to consider several factors before purchasing a pet. Ensure the pet is legal to own in Canada and purchase it from a reputable company, the Invasive Species Centre added. You should also consider the feasibility of caring for the animal over its entire lifespan.
Alternatives
If pet owners can no longer care for their pet, it’s essential that it not be released, the Invasive Species Centre added in the release.
Instead of releasing the animal outdoors, consider contacting the retailer for advice. Ask around to determine if another pet owner would be willing to adopt your pet or donate the animal to an aquarium society, school or another organization equipped to care for the pet.
