Now it can finally be over .Okay...love the input and thoughts. Thanks!
I admit I have been guilty of flushing fish that were sick a long tiime ago, but never fish that I did not want. It is not my standard practice though, and has not been for many years.
Often, for me, I will put effort into a tank wide illness, vice a singular fish. Just a fact of life. Fish that then get disposed of are put down by some combination of freezing/clove oil/sharp knife.
Though some may not want to hear (read) it, while I consider my fish as pets in general, I do not equate the same traits to them as a dog/cat/bird. I do have my favorites and care well for them.
Once again..thanks for all the responses, and I hope everyone received some thoughtful input from other members on opposing views! :hi:
Well, if the fish earned some $$ and sprung for the ~$10,000 service they can have a steel coffin with silk liner if they want it....mg: Did this actually happen to you?! Such a realistic story if not...
Have you ever read Jessica Mitford? You definitely should!
I agree with you about funeral services (for people) but it's the kind of thing I never bring up since it is offensive to so many. I hope so called "eco funerals" catch on in the U.S., but I think it will be a long time before this country warms up to cardboard coffins.
We have an almost healthy relationship with natural decomposition - look at all the people saying they compost their fish - except when it comes to us. For some reason, worms and microbes returning our bodies to the earth really rubs us the wrong way.
That a, "I want food, maybe this is food?!" response... Not a, "OMG I LOVE YOU!" response. Hah.I put my finger or my hand in the tank and mine rush up to my arm. Hell they try to chase flake debris up the grav vac tube.