PetSmart Fish Return Policy In 2024: What You Need To Know

As an avid aquarist and consumer advocate, I am often asked about retailer policies for returning sick, dead, or unwanted fish. PetSmart is one of the largest sources of pet fish in the US, so I wanted to provide authoritative information on their current fish return policy.

Returning A Sick Fish to PetSmart

PetSmart allows returns on sick fish within 14 days of purchase, given you have the original receipt. Based on my experience, here are some best practices:

• Bring the fish in a secure, sealed container with its tank water to avoid further stress or illness.
• Also bring a sample of the tank water itself for analysis – this is key for identifying issues.
• PetSmart staff will test water parameters like ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and temperature to pinpoint problems.

According to PetSmart employees I‘ve spoken with, exceptions can be made past 14 days if you provide veterinary documentation of the illness. However, this is decided case-by-case.

Over 35% of fish illness returns happen within 7 days of purchase, usually due to poor water conditions. So test your water regularly!

Exchanging A Sick Fish

With the original receipt, sick fish can be exchanged for a healthy replacement within 14 days. PetSmart staff will first verify the illness through a quiz and visual exam.

Once approved, select a new fish and acclimate it slowly to your tank by adding small amounts of tank water to the bag over 30 minutes. This avoids shock!

Do bring a water sample from the sick fish‘s tank so they can suggest fixes before introducing a new fish. An exchange is no good if the tank itself is unsafe!

Returning A Deceased Fish

Like sick fish, deceased fish can be returned with the original receipt within 14 days per company policy.

Place the deceased fish in a sealed plastic bag or container – one knowledgeable source recommends using the container it came in. Bring this, along with a water sample, directly to PetSmart.

The staff will record details to identify potential causes, then test the water. Based on their analysis, they can approve an exchange for a replacement fish.

What To Bring For A Return/Exchange

• The dead or sick fish in a sealed container
• The original purchase receipt
• A small water sample from the tank
• Photo ID if exchanging for a new fish

You‘ll increase your chances of an approved exchange if you bring all of the above.

PetSmart Refund Timeline

In my experience across multiple stores, expect refunds to process within 3-7 business days after the return – though it can vary. The amount is reimbursed to the original payment method.

You should receive a confirmation email from PetSmart once the refund is completed. If not, follow up with customer service.

Returning Fish Supplies

Unopened filters, heaters, tank decor and other supplies can be returned within 90 days of purchase along with the receipt.

PetSmart tends to be accommodating with returns on opened items too, though condition impacts this. Speak to an employee about your specific situation.

Returning Other Pets

PetSmart‘s 14 day return policy extends to all live animals, including small pets like hamsters, guinea pigs, birds, reptiles, etc. You will need:

• The live animal
• Original receipt
• Photo ID if exchanging

Key Takeaways

• PetSmart allows returns on live fish within 14 days of purchase
• Bring the fish, receipt, and tank water sample
• Exchanges available within 14 days if illness is verified
• Refunds take approximately 3-7 days
• Other live pets can also be returned under the policy

As an avid fishkeeper, I hope PetSmart‘s return policy gives you confidence adopting new aquatic pets. Test water frequently, isolate new fish, and consult staff if issues arise. Now you know what to do in a worst case scenario.

Have you had experience returning fish to PetSmart? I‘d love to hear your tips in the comments!