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How to move a goldfish long distance and keep them stress-free?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish

How would I transport a goldfish? I am going to college and it's at least a 6 hour drive and I am staying in a hotel for one night. How would you suggest I transport him without stress?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Catherine Stecyk

Veterinarian

Published on July 26th, 2018

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Begin your preparation for the move a week or so before the day itself, by removing ornaments and other obstacles from within the tank. Each day leading up to the move, perform a 15-20% water change, so that by the time you are ready to move, the tank water will be clean but also stable and mature. On the day itself, preserve as much of the original tank water as possible, to re-introduce into the tank at the other end. The best way to transport your fish is within thick bags, like the ones pet shops provide when you buy new fish. Make sure that the top of the bag is well sealed to prevent spillages. Store the bags containing your fish in a sturdy box, padded with polystyrene or other filled bags to keep the bags secure and upright. Cover the box, as darkness helps to reduce stress in your fish, then secure the box safely within your vehicle. Since your journey is more than a couple of hours long then you may need to arrange for a rest stop to re-open the bags and allow oxygen to enter. Once you've arrived, get the tank set up and watered, with all of the filters and air pumps running, and allow at least half an hour for the tank to settle. You will probably need to add more water to the tank, but try to keep this to a minimum and use as much of the original water as possible. Finally, introduce your fish to the tank in the same manner as you would if bringing them home for the first time, by floating the bags with the lights off, allowing the temperature to stabilize, and gradually mixing tank water with the bag water before releasing your fish. I hope this is helpful!

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