A Tiny Wheelchair That Changed a Life
Sometimes pets face challenges that feel impossible to fix, and this Ranchu goldfish was one of them.
A bladder problem left him floating upside down and rubbing against the bottom of his tank, unable to swim or eat the way a healthy fish should.
Many people might have assumed there was nothing to be done, but Derek Burnett, a marine biology fan and manager at Aquarium Designs in San Antonio, chose a different path.
Instead of giving up, he created a tiny fish wheelchair that helped the little goldfish sit upright, move freely, and enjoy life again.
The story spread quickly online, shining a light on how creativity and compassion can change the lives of pets with special needs.
See More: Lion Cub Bond With Photographer Wins the Internet
When the goldfish first arrived at the aquarium store, he was part of a group that had been surrendered by a previous owner.
While the others were happily adopted, this Ranchu stayed behind. His upside down drifting made feeding hard, and his worn skin showed how much he struggled every day.
Burnett noticed how fiercely the fish tried to survive, and he felt a connection with the determined little swimmer.
Seeing his spirit, he brought the goldfish home and promised to find a way to help him.
Building Hope with Simple Materials
Burnett tried special diets at first, hoping to ease the bladder issue, but nothing changed.
That is when he came up with an idea that would turn into a miracle. He decided to design a small device that could help the goldfish float upright without hurting his body.
See More: Tennis Balls Became Tiny Homes for Mice
Using safe materials like soft tubing, netting, Styrofoam for lift, and tiny weights for balance, he built a gentle support system that fit the fish perfectly.
The moment the goldfish entered the water with his new wheelchair, everything changed. He could swim upright for the first time, eat without struggle, and stop scraping himself along the tank floor.
Burnett described the moment as life changing for both of them, a turning point filled with relief and joy.
Word about the wheelchair did not stay quiet for long. Popular animal content creator Taylor Nicole Dean shared photos online, and the images spread across social media.
People were amazed to see how much care a small fish could receive and how much difference one handmade device could make.
Experts joined the conversation too, explaining that creative tools like this are becoming more common in helping animals with medical needs live healthier, happier lives.
A Second Chance That Inspired the World
Today, the goldfish spends most of his time in his custom wheelchair, gliding through the water with ease.
He still needs the device to move, but he lives comfortably, interacts with visitors, and shows a playful side that was hidden before.
Feeding is now safe and simple, and his body finally has the chance to heal. Burnett treats him like a family member, proving that love for a pet can go far beyond the usual expectations.
See More: Cute Baby Elephant Steals Reporter’s Spotlight
The story has inspired many others to look for solutions instead of giving up on pets with disabilities.
Fish owners from around the world have reached out for help and advice, moved by Burnett’s patience and creativity.
The goldfish has become a symbol of hope, reminding us that every animal deserves care, respect, and a chance to thrive.
Through one tiny wheelchair, he has shown the world how kindness can transform even the smallest life.