PetSmart Fish Return Policy (Dead Fish, Unwanted Fish, Unhealthy + More) 

PetSmart sells a variety of fish to its customers, including male and female betta fish, goldfish, minnows, sharks, angelfish, platys, and many more.

However, if your pet fish dies or becomes sick after you purchase it from PetSmart, you may be wondering – what are PetSmart’s fish return and refund policy? Here is what I’ve found out about it!

PetSmart Fish Return Policy

PetSmart allows customers 14 days from the initial date of purchase to exchange or return pet fish for a refund. Additionally, Customers can return sick, unwanted, or dead fish by bringing them safely in a container along with a receipt and a valid photo ID.

If you want to learn more about whether you can return a dead or sick fish for a refund, what the process is for making a return to PetSmart, and how long do refunds take to process, keep on reading!

Can You Return A Sick Fish To PetSmart? 

PetSmart allows returns of sick fish to its stores, but the fish will need to have a noticeable or vet-identified illness for the return to be eligible.

Additionally, customers must make this return within 14 days of the initial purchase, along with the original receipt.

If you are outside the 14-day return window, it may still be worth enquiring at PetSmart, as they tend to view returns on a case-by-case basis.

Note that the staff has the right to make the ultimate decision as to whether a return can be accepted or not.

Can You Exchange A Sick Fish For Another Fish At PetSmart?

You can exchange a sick fish for another one if this is done within 14 days of the initial purchase, and you have the original receipt to prove this.

Upon accepting the return of the sick fish, PetSmart will give you the option of a refund or exchange. If you would like a new fish, you will need to ask for an exchange.

How Do You Return A Sick Fish To PetSmart?

To physically return a sick fish to PetSmart, you will need to bring it into a store without causing potential harm to the fish.

The best way to do this is to put some fish tank water into a plastic container or bag and then place the fish inside the container. Do not use tap water since it may harm the fish and cause it to die.

You should try to minimize the time in which the fish is in this container by going straight to PetSmart to make the return.

Can You Return A Dead Fish To PetSmart?

Can You Return A Dead Fish To PetSmart?

You can return a dead fish to PetSmart as long as it is returned within 14 days of the initial purchase. You must also bring the original receipt with you as proof of purchase.  

To help figure out the cause of death, employees at PetSmart may ask for a sample of water from your fish tank.

They will then run an analysis of this water to make sure it is safe for other fish. This is especially important if you opt for an exchange for another fish rather than a refund.

How Do You Return A Dead Fish To PetSmart? 

To return a dead fish to PetSmart, you will need to place the fish’s body into a secure container.

This will ensure the safe and convenient travel and handover of the fish to PetSmart staff.  

Once the staff has successfully disposed of the deceased fish, they will hand you back the container should you wish to keep it.

When visiting PetSmart for the return, make sure you have a receipt of the fish on you, and it may be worth taking a small vial of the fish tank water to check for any anomalies in the water levels.  

What Should You Bring When Exchanging A Fish At PetSmart?

You will need to present the following items to exchange a fish at PetSmart:

  • The fish you want to exchange  
  • Your receipt (or an alternative proof of purchase) 
  • A valid form of photo identification 
  • A small vial of your fish tank water (only if your fish is dead to sample the water) 

Note that the store policy asks for exchanges to be made within 14 days of the initial purchase. 

How Long Do PetSmart Refunds Take? 

You can expect a PetSmart refund to take between 3 to 7 days for the money to be put into your bank account.

After that, you will automatically receive an email from PetSmart to confirm that they have successfully processed your refund.

Can You Return A Used Fish Tank To PetSmart? 

PetSmart allows returns of products such as fish tanks mainly on a case-by-case basis, primarily if they have been used or were already broken at the time of purchase.

Additionally, it will also accept returns for most new products that are still in their original packaging or, if used, in a sellable condition.  

Note that it is best to return your item to PetSmart within 14 days of purchase alongside the original receipt as proof of purchase. 

Can You Return A Small Animal To PetSmart? 

You can return a small animal to PetSmart, from hamsters to fish, within 14 days of the initial purchase.

You will need to bring your receipt as proof of purchase and will be able to choose whether you would like an exchange or a refund.

Although PetSmart is unlikely to accept a return of a healthy animal, each return is processed on a case-by-case basis.  

If you cannot care for the small animal, discuss the options with the PetSmart employee, who will either accept the animal as a return or advise you on the best course of action. 

If you are a frequent PetSmart shopper, you might also be curious to know where PetSmart animals come from (including fish), if PetSmart takes in old dogs and cats, and if PetSmart sells hedgehogs and ducks.

Conclusion: PetSmart Fish Return Policy

PetSmart will accept the return of fish within 14 days of the initial purchase for exchanges or refunds. You will need to have your receipt as proof of purchase, and it is best to bring with you a form of valid photo ID should it be required.

You can return both sick and dead fish to PetSmart by bringing them in a safe container along with a sample of the water for PetSmart to analyze.

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Marques Thomas

Marques Thomas graduated with a MBA in 2011. Since then, Marques has worked in the retail and consumer service industry as a manager, advisor, and marketer. Marques is also the head writer and founder of QuerySprout.com.

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