Everyone has keys of some sort and a lot of us have keychains on them to reduce the risk of losing them or maybe as a fashion accessory. A new "trend" coming from China has seen live fish, turtles and other amphibians being sold as keychains and mobile phone charms.

They are trapped in small plastic bags or pouches usually with a small amount of colored water and can be bought, most commonly, outside of train and subway stations in the major cities for as little as $1.50 which is less than a cheeseburger costs at a local burger van.

Things To Buy From China Key Chains

Are animals in danger? Are they suffering?

Although vendors have claimed that each keychain contains enough crystallized oxygen and nutrients to keep the animals alive, this hasn't stopped animal rights groups and activists condemning the practice as ‘cruel’ and ‘inhumane’ and have stated that more animal protection laws are necessary within China.

One vendor said that they can survive no longer than a few days and will have to be cut out of the bag to prevent them from suffocating. The creatures in question include either a fish, young Chinese soft-shell turtle—which as adults are popular within Chinese dishes— or an amphibian.

Live Animal Keychains In China Key Chains

What is being done about it?

Despite some petitions being created and circulated, the keychains and phone charms continue to be trapped and sold on the streets of China. They are highly popular with young people who see them as fashion accessories instead of the small plastic grave for which they are. It is unlikely they will be restricted, and these poor animals will continue to suffer. For many, it is a certain death sentence, for the lucky few, they may get a second chance at life.

Animals In Keychains Key Chains Cruelty To

I see this as a practice of severe animals cruelty and should be stopped immediately. It's high time China joined the rest of the world in a united front against animal cruelty and suffering. They should be seen as equals and treated as such with the loving care and respect they so desperately deserve.