Betta is definitely among one of the most popular pet fish.
I heard some of them actually would like the attention of the owner.
I also had plan for keeping a betta, but I never did due to I never had a spared tank for just betta, plus the fact I never found one that I like. I bought most of my fish online, and there is no way for me to pick a betta that way. I'd like to know how my fish look like before I buy.
It is terrible though most betta don't live along at all. I had friend who kept betta in a fish bowel with no heater, no filter. He claims betta doesn't need it and he was doing correct because it was alive for 2 months, and he wouldn't listen lol. It died soon after before the 3 months was up. He claimed it must be too old... and he absolutely would not accept more scientifically explanations - ammonia, and tropical fish needs heater.
I've been to walmart, and Pet Supplies Plus(new here), every time there are dead betta just laying there.