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When your fish dies, it’s a sad time and can lead to strong emotions. An important part of overcoming these emotions is through Fish Mourning. This process is similar to mourning a human’s death, and can be a very personal and moving experience. Try to find out why your fish died. It may be easier to cope when you know your fish died from natural causes and not a premature death due to poor aquarium maintenance or neglect.

The Second Step

Talk to your family, especially children, about the death of the fish. Explain that fish generally do not live long lives, and that this death is a normal and natural part of owning fish. Be prepared for young children to have lots of questions about death and dying.

The Third Step

If you plan to bury the fish in your yard, you may want to find a pretty box and have the family help decorate it. Include items from the fish tank. Hold a small, informal ceremony in the yard, and let each family member take part in some way. Older children might want to read poems, while the youngest family members can help decorate the box or make drawings of their fish friend. Be prepared for some sad times, but remember that this is a normal part of owning fish.