The way you choose to send your goldfish into its final rest doesn’t have to be expensive or permanent (although encasing your dearly deceased in Lucite does make for a novel conversation piece). The important thing is that the way in which you choose to dispose of your now-dead friend pays homage to his or her unique contribution to your life.
Of course, flushing down the toilet does a disservice to the memories you’ve made over the course of your relationship–a week? A month?–with the goldfish who maybe you named or not (you’re not to be blamed for not doing so, of course). And why flush when there are so many other ways to say goodbye?
Why not put his or her (who can be sure?) remains in your flowerbed, such that some part of them will be with you always?
Or you can make your goldfish a miniature funeral pyre out of Popsicle sticks, sending him or her off to the great beyond in true viking style, although if you do not have a hibachi, you should check your municipal statutes concerning open outdoor fires.
If you live in an area where fireworks are readily available, you might consider taping him or her onto a bottle rocket and sending him into the clouds, such that he or she can go out with a “bang.”
But should you do choose this option, bring an umbrella. Just in case.
