By Conner Tighe
When most people consider pet adoption, cats and dogs are usually the first to come to mind. However, fish, including bettas, also need loving homes and can be adopted like any other pet. If you're looking for a way to avoid supporting large pet chains that often keep bettas in cramped, unhealthy conditions, consider adopting instead. By choosing adoption, you’re not only giving a betta fish another chance at a stable, happy life, but you’re also helping to reduce the demand for bettas sold in small cups. Adopting a betta fish can be a rewarding experience, and it’s a great way to make a positive impact while providing a safe and nurturing environment for a deserving pet.
Why Fish Need Rehoming
While many people assume that only cats and dogs need new homes, fish—including bettas—often need rehoming for various reasons. Some of the most common include:
● Moving – Many fish owners face unexpected life changes, such as relocating to a new home where they can’t bring their aquarium. Rather than risk poor conditions during a move or improper care, they choose to find a responsible new owner.
● Lack of preparedness – Bettas are often marketed as low-maintenance pets, leading many first-time owners to purchase them without fully understanding their needs. Once they realize bettas require heated, filtered tanks and regular care, they may decide to give them up.
● Loss of interest – Some people buy bettas on impulse, attracted by their bright colors and flowing fins, but later lose interest in maintaining their tank. This can lead to neglect or an attempt to rehome the fish.
● Overbreeding – Hobbyist breeders sometimes end up with too many fish to properly care for and need to find suitable homes for the extras.
● Rescue situations – Some bettas are surrendered after being rescued from poor conditions, such as being kept in tiny, unfiltered cups at pet stores or from owners who were not providing proper care. These fish need second chances with responsible adopters who understand their needs.
No matter the reason, rehoming a betta responsibly gives the fish an opportunity for a better life in a well-maintained environment.
Where to Find Adoptable Betta Fish
If you're interested in adopting a betta fish, there are several places to look beyond traditional pet stores. Many individuals and rescue organizations work to rehome bettas that need new homes. Here are some of the best places to find adoptable betta fish:
Online Platforms
● Craigslist & Nextdoor – These community-based sites often have listings from people looking to rehome their bettas due to moving, lack of time, or other circumstances.
● Adopt a Pet & Petfinder – While these sites are mainly known for dog and cat adoptions, some individuals and rescues list fish available for adoption.
Facebook Marketplace & Groups
● Facebook Marketplace sometimes features bettas in need of a home.
● Join local fishkeeping or aquarium hobbyist groups, as members often post about available fish.
Animal Shelters & Rescues
● Some local animal shelters accept fish surrenders and may have bettas available for adoption. It’s worth calling or checking their websites.
● Betta World For Betta's Fish Rescue Map – This online resource helps connect potential adopters with betta rescues across the country. If you’re looking for a dedicated betta rescue, this is a great place to start.
By checking these sources, you can help give a betta fish a second chance at a healthy, stable home while reducing demand for pet store fish sold in poor conditions.
Adopting Responsibly
Bringing home a betta fish is a commitment, and adopting responsibly ensures your new pet thrives in a healthy environment. Before adopting, take the time to research proper betta care to avoid the common mistakes that lead to rehoming in the first place.
Set Up the Right Environment
● Bettas need a minimum 5-gallon tank—small bowls or cups are not suitable for long-term care.
● A filter is essential to maintain water quality and prevent harmful ammonia buildup.
● Since bettas are tropical fish, a heater is necessary to keep the water at a stable 78-80°F.
● Decorate the tank with soft plants and hiding spots to provide enrichment and reduce stress.
Understand the Long-Term Commitment
● With proper care, bettas can live 3 to 5 years, sometimes longer.
● Regular tank maintenance, including weekly water changes, is necessary to keep them healthy.
● Bettas are solitary fish and should generally be housed alone unless you have the experience to manage a divided tank or a peaceful community setup.
Avoid Impulse Adopting
● Ensure you have the time, resources, and knowledge before bringing a fish home.
● Don't adopt just because a betta looks beautiful—consider their needs and whether you can meet them.
● If adopting from a rescue or previous owner, ask about the fish’s health, diet, and special care requirements.
By adopting responsibly, you’re not just giving a betta a second chance—you’re ensuring they have a stable, enriching home where they can thrive.
Adopting a betta fish is a meaningful way to give a pet a second chance while avoiding support for large pet chains that keep fish in poor conditions. Many bettas end up needing new homes due to reasons beyond their control, and adoption helps reduce the demand for fish sold in small cups. By choosing to adopt, you can make a difference in the life of a betta while promoting more ethical pet ownership. However, responsible adoption is key—ensuring you’re prepared with the proper setup and knowledge will set your fish up for a healthy, stable future. If you’re considering a new aquatic companion, adoption is a compassionate and rewarding choice.
This article was written by Conner Tighe.
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