A respectable pet

 

You want a pet, but the landlord says no? You’re allergic to fur but still wish you had a companion animal waiting for you at home? Tired of being the only person without a cute pet story but worried that your average pet simply makes too much mess to be worth it? Well grrl, wait no more, your new pet is as close as your nearest fish market!

That’s right, the fish market. You may not realize it now, but trout make wonderful pets. They are quiet, easy to care for, take up little room, and make wonderful friends. You may want to check with your landlord just in case, but I think you’ll find that trout are not included on most lists of ‘forbidden’ animals. Since they don’t have fur they wont give you the sniffles, and since they never leave their tank you wont have to be cleaning up messes or worrying about housebreaking them!

Just like cats and dogs, there are many different types of trout, and you should think carefully about the type of pet you want to have in your life. Since trout can live up to 20 years (barring fishing or dining disasters), this isn’t a decision to rush! Do you like the sleek, modern, look? Perhaps the silvery flash of the Steelhead trout with it’s laid-back and sophisticated manner is the trout for you. Or are you an out-of-doors adventure grrl? If so, check out the Gillaroo trout. The Gillaroo’s scales are a beautiful blend of earth tones and burnt sienna highlights, and it’s known for its rugged nature. All you need is a tank, some food, and a lot of love, and you’ll find that trout make the perfect pet for any wild grrl of the world! 

Stop by your local fish market to meet your potential pet and get to know them as an individual. Don’t just pick the first fish to flip it’s fin in your direction. Make sure your trout’s eyes are clear, their scales are shiny, and they are swimming well. Cloudy eyes and a belly up float are not good signs. Most reputable vendors will allow you to bring your trout back for an exchange if you simply can’t live with each other, but make sure you ask first! Also, find out if your vendor will provide you with a coupon for a free vet visit, and if they can provide you with a list of vets in your area who have worked with trout in the past.

Whatever your style, from the bright green and gregarious Pyramid, to the hyperactive silver and black spotted Sonaghen, to the exotic and aloof Golden....there’s a trout for you. Keep looking grrl, and before you know it, you’ll be showing off pictures of your brand new pet!

Robin Beck  grrl-e-grrl.com contributor