Last year, Green Mountain Animal Defenders received many complaints regarding animals, specifically goldfish, being given as prizes at state and county fairs across Vermont. Many people, including fair organizers, apparently did not realize that this is a violation of Vermont's Prohibited Use of Animals (Title 13, Chapter 8, Section 366), so GMAD wrote them each a polite letter reminding them to comply with the law.

This law prohibits using live animals (including fish) as prizes in any game, lottery, contest, or promotion, unless the event is recognized by an agricultural or sporting association. Where such an association does recognize the event, the regulation requires that an alternative cash prize be offered, and that the person or organization awarding the animal has a reasonable assurance that proper transportation and adequate care will be provided.

Due to these strict stipulations, the awarding of small animals, such as goldfish, is unfeasible since the future care of the animal cannot be assured. In fact, many of these goldfish perish within hours.

To some, the distribution of goldfish may be seen as a victimless violation. However, many studies have shown that the ability to feel pain in fish is very similar to that of birds and mammals.

GMAD has written to over a dozen fairs across the state, and so far four (4) have assured us they will comply: Franklin County Field Days (July 30-Aug 4), Addison County Fair & Field Days (Aug 4-8), Deerfield Valley Farmers' Day Exhibition ( Aug 27-30) and Tunbridge World's Fair (Sept 17-20). We will continue to follow up with the others.

Please, if you see a violation, report it immediately to the local police department in the town in which the fair is being held, as they are responsible for enforcement of this legislation. I ask that you also contact GMAD, as we would appreciate hearing about any instances of live animals being used as prizes at any venue in Vermont.

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