Animal welfare campaigner Chris Packham has criticized eBay for allowing pet fish to be shipped in “fizzy drink” bottles, resulting in hundreds of fish dying during transit. This comes after a customer purchased 10 cardinal tetra fish from a private seller on eBay and found them stressed and pale in a 330ml bottle upon arrival, with one already dead.
Packham condemned eBay’s policy of allowing the shipping of live fish under 5cm in length, stating that it perpetuates cruelty and suffering. The RSPCA also expressed concern and mentioned plans to discuss eBay’s policies with the company.
Despite negative reviews from customers, eBay continues to allow the sale of live fish on its platform, with sellers offering refunds for dead on arrival fish if certain conditions are met. However, many buyers have reported receiving dead fish or fish in inadequate packaging.
Royal Mail’s prohibited items list does not include fish, yet eBay allows sellers to ship live fish as long as they guarantee safe delivery. Packham emphasized the importance of ethical responsibility in the treatment of animals and urged buyers to be mindful of where and how they purchase pets.
The customer who purchased the cardinal tetra fish shared her distress at the poor treatment of the fish during shipping, highlighting the need for compassion towards all animals, regardless of size. The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association also condemned the shipping of fish through postal services and urged buyers to use authorized couriers.
eBay stated that they prohibit the sale of most live animals but allow the shipping of certain aquatic creatures under specific conditions. The seller involved in this incident defended their practices, claiming to adhere to eBay’s policies and blaming negative reviews on competitors.
Overall, the incident involving the shipment of pet fish in inadequate packaging has raised concerns about the welfare of animals sold online and the need for stricter regulations to ensure their safety and well-being. It serves as a reminder for buyers to be vigilant and responsible when purchasing pets from online platforms.
