Gomestic > Pets

Convincing Your Parents to Get You a Pet

So you want a pet, but mom and dad are not thrilled. Here are some ideas to consider that are in everyone's best interest, including the pets'.

From your Parents' Viewpoint

It is your parents job to provide you with food, shelter, and clothing. It is not their job to provide you with a pet. A pet is a lifetime commitment that all too often is dumped on the parents who did not want that responsibility in the first place. A pet is an expensive purchase, because it has on going costs, such as food, veterinary expenses, and ongoing care.

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From the View of the Pet

A pet requires a lot of time. They must be tended to daily, fed, watered, cleaned, and exercised. Some more intelligent animals also require mental stimulation to prevent them from being bored. An animal isn't something you get to make yourself more cool, that animals life, and happiness is in your hands. One of the WORST things that can happen to a pet is that a kid gets it after begging mom and dad, but years, or even months, later the kid is either bored or moves out and cannot take the pet with them, and mom and dad do not want it. Many pets are abandoned in shelters or euthanized because children who once pleaded for a pet are no longer able or willing to care for it. In all fairness to an animal, unless EVERYONE in the household wants a pet, you should not get one. Unless your parents are fully willing to help financially and understand the lifespan of the animal may exceed your ability to keep it, then you should not get a pet. I am sure you think you will always be willing, and able, to look after your pet, but in reality this doesn't always happen.

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Research

One thing that will help you is knowing what kind of pet you want and what kind of care or expense is required. Do not be set on one kind of animal. For instance, many kids want hamsters but find that the hamsters habit of running on the wheel at night to be annoying, as such a small rabbit would have been a better choice. Maybe you want a Border Collie (a dog used for herding sheep), but, if you do not have time to keep a Border Collies mind stimulated it will become bored and destructive, so a Shih Tzu, or cat, might make a better pet.

Write down the pros and cons of every pet you might consider. Include things like lifespan, size, activity level required, cost, and housing equipment needed. If it is a horse you are asking for, you must realize these have huge ongoing costs, especially if you must board them at a stable. Do not even ask for a horse unless your parents are horsey people and have a good income.

You will need to check if you can have a pet. If your parents own a house and you want a dog, you should have a fully fenced yard or dog run. Chained dogs have a tendency to become aggressive. If you rent you must make sure you have landlord approval for any pet. If you are planning on moving, you should wait until you move before getting a pet or you may find you must give it up, as very few places allow pets.

If you are looking into something more exotic, like a Sugar Glider, Ferret, or Rat, you need to check if they are legal as pets in your area. Remember most exotic pets require more specialized care and food.

Things You Can Do

Try being more helpful around the house to demonstrate your level of responsibility. Keep your room clean and help with other areas too. Get a part time, or summer, job so you can help pay some of the bills your pet will have. Save your money for the pet and supplies, rather than spending it on other things.

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Things You Cannot Do

Do not beg. It might work, but it is the wrong way to get a pet. Your parents will never feel good about giving in to your constant begging, and will hold it against the pet. They will just want to "be free" of the burden, a constant reminder of giving in. Do not guilt them, or in anyway try to manipulate them, into getting a pet if they really do not want one. In this case it may be best to wait until you are older and can get your own pet after you move out. Generally, the more you beg, the more a parent will resist.

Do not lie, do not tell your parents a certain kind of animal is easier to care for than it actually is, or that it is not "smelly", for example.

The Decision

As mentioned, the decision lies with your parents, it is them who will ultimately be the ones who make the commitment. They should have final say in what pet you can or cannot get. They should be able to select the pet, this will help them bond with it too. Most places will not sell or adopt to children, and rightfully so. If your parents are getting you a pet and are saying "If you do not look after it, we get rid of it." then by all means DO NOT get a pet. If they show no interest in animals then DO NOT get a pet. The pet should be referred to as a family pet, not specifically "yours". After all, you might mean well now, but what happens when you move out, or go to college, and cannot find a place that allows pets? If your parents made it clear they do not want the responsibility, then you can be sure they will not keep the animal, and older pets generally do not find new homes.

Success!

If your parents agreed, I am sure you are thrilled and now have to select the pet. Again, it is critical they play a major part in the selection process. The best place to look for pets is your local animal shelter, they generally have the best value, and selection. Since most are non-profit, they are not motivated by money, so will be honest about each animal. You may find that you have to return several times before finding the animal that is right for your family. One of the benefits of adopting from a shelter is they provide a guarantee and have lots of information available, often free of charge, plus you are truly saving a life, rather than supporting an industry of breeding animals solely for profit.

Getting pets "free" out of the newspaper is generally more expensive because they may not have had any veterinarian care, such as vaccinations or worming. Sometimes older pets are offered for free, and these may be worth looking into, especially if they are already trained, vaccinated, and come with supplies.

The other option is to buy from a breeder. This is best if you are looking for a purebred, registered, animal. Reputable breeders breed with the main interest of improving the breed and have shown the parents to prove their worth as breeding animals. Finding a reputable breeder is a whole other matter, you can ask a vet, dog groomer, or your local dog club (these will also be able to tell you where your local shelter or SPCA).

Now, you must remember to stick to your promises to your parents and to the pet.

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Comments (99)
#1 by savannah, May 6, 2008
well i think that if the kid is willing to do what ever then they should be able to get that pet. i mean you should be happy that your kids want a pet cuz most kids just want to be lazy plus its a good test for you to see how resonsible your kid is. trust me i got a bunny a dog and a cat and i am very well rounded plus i am only 12. so really look into gettin a pet in intead of just saying NO just of the first askin. look in to it and tell them you will look in to it and my be they wont bother as long as they would if you strate up said no. THINK ABOUT IT BEFORE YOU SAY NO WITH OUT THINKING ABOUT IT......!!!!!!
#2 by Karen, May 15, 2008
I agree completly with ^ savannah^. I had 1 chinchilla and my parents didnt want it @ furst. Then i got 2. Youjust have to be nice to them and keep asking why they wont let you have one. Eventually they will have no reasons left and then you\'ll get it. But you really have to want it!
#3 by Kevin, May 17, 2008
My wife gave in to giving our daughter a guinea pig and now she's not wanting it any more. I want nothing to do with the thing and wife's not really taking care of it either. So the poor thing is suffering. And it's not just giving it away or letting it out.
So think twice before giving your kid a pet.
Nice article anyway, if you kids read and comprehend it you might be suitable for a pet.
#4 by wally, Jun 8, 2008
I am an adult. I bought 2 guinea pigs for my office (I was self-employed) they were babies and were "so cute". About 2 weeks later I went to the pet store for more food and came back with 2 more guinea pigs, a big cage and all the gear. Those guinea pigs were so funny and cute, but expensive to maintain as they grew like weeds. THEN, something happened that I couldn't stay in that building and I had to work at home. I had 2 cats at home. The only place I could put 4 guinea pigs so the cats wouldn't terrorize them, was in my bedroon! Needless to say, this was not the best scenario for me or the piggies. I took good care of them for about a year and a half and then they started to die one by one. Now I have no pets (the cats were very old and got cancer and had to be euthanized). So, the moral to the story is this.... Don't get a pet just because it is "CUTE". Try to think ahead, like Savannah said, what if you have to move? etc. The article has very good points. Pay attention to all of them.
#5 by Ann, Jun 28, 2008
I agreed with this article but what if your parents say we already have too many pets? This is the only reason they had and I can't really get around it.
#6 by zipper, Jun 29, 2008
tell your mom ya we have alot of pets but i do take care of them dont i
#7 by Kiitchi, Jul 4, 2008
Do you think it's fair that your parents make you get this one pet instead of the pet you really want. I want a rabbit, and I'd be fine to take care of it (I'm 13 going on 14 in October.) But then my parents say "start with two legs" so the only animal I can get are birds. But I don't really like birds. I don't favor the idea of having them as a pet all that much (I just don't like birds as much as I do rabbits or cats) but that's the only way I can get a "four-legged animal" because it's "easier." Do you think it's easier to take care of an animal you like and want to care for, or an animal you get just so you can get another one later?
#8 by B Nelson - author, Jul 4, 2008
to Kiitchi

indeed telling a child they can have a pet they do not want is not good.. you will not bond with it, and therefore will not care for it. I would NOT get a pet you do not LOVE.

Also Birds are WAYYYY harder and more messier than bunnies!!!
plus the cost of a decent bird cage and toys is much higher.
#9 by Beth, Jul 13, 2008
I don't think kids should get pets if they aren't responsible, but B Nelson is right: you won't bond with the pet if it's not the one you want. And JJ is not right at all!!!! Just because a kid wants to have a pet and asks their parents if they can have on, doesn't mean they are demanding and irritating kids who nag and beg for pets. that may be true in some cases, but not all. I have wanted a hamster for a long time, and I hardly ask for it even though I don't have one yet.
#10 by Beth, Jul 13, 2008
And does anyone have any ideas so that I can convince my mom hamsters aren't rats? That's the only reason why I can't get one and I'm trying to get past it.
#11 by Tommy, Jul 13, 2008
this is to say that animals stink, period. just dont live with thim and everything will be great. my sister has a rabbit and a guinea pig and they stink! i as her brother try not to remind her to take care of them so they will die faster. i agree with JJ. kids shouldnt have pets. my
#12 by Katherine, Jul 15, 2008
I have always wanted to buy a rabbit, ever since my old one died. We got a cat right before the bunny died, so my parents wont let us get another rabbit. We have money saved up and plans. WE want a rabbit so bad! Using this advice it still didnt work...
FOR ALL YOU PEOPLE WHO DONT THINK PETS ARE GOOD FOR KIDS, THINK AGAIN! THEY PROVIDE FRIENDS AND GIVE THE KIDS RESPONSIBILITYS. and a little furry someone to cuddle with whenever you have a bad day or just a good one. Kids need support and pets are always there through rough times. If you think that sounds stupid.you are stuipid. you've never had a pet or a friend
#13 by Amanda, Aug 1, 2008
Hi I am turning 12 on August 12 and I have been asking my parents for a kitty this year. I have enough money and I am willing to take care of it. I have researched it a lot. I have a dog, but its a family pet. He is very gentle and has been around other animals before. Do you think I should get a kitty?
#14 by B Nelson - author, Aug 3, 2008
Cats make great pets, I stongly encourage you and your family to check out the cats at your local humane society, or SPCA, make sure your dog is good with cats though, some are NOT. Get an adult cat who has already been around dogs, a cat that isnt afraid will not be as much of a target as one that freaks out.
#15 by Lily J W, Aug 7, 2008
i\\\'m DESPERATE for a bunny. i get a very high allowance and i have plenty of money for on going costs (trust me, i\\\'ve done my research). i\\\'ve made a powerpoint, i\\\'ve impressed them with everything i know about rabbits, and i\\\'ve built an NIC pen in a corner of my room trying to show them how badly i want this. they still wont budge, what can i do about that??? help please!
#16 by Emily, Aug 10, 2008
hi im 10-11 this year and i reall want a guinea-pig but my mm and dad wont let me i tidy my room and i do everything i have been doing it for 2 weeks and if i keep on askin why then they will just ignre me or say its coz they dont want one i never get anything though
what could i do plz can some1 help me
from Emily
#17 by Emily, Aug 10, 2008
hi meagen im soo desperate and i no someone else thats got a guinea-pig and there dad didnt want it but shes had like 2 gerbils 2 african snails 1 hamster ad i dunno 5 guinea-pigs and her dad like her pets how can her dad rely on her and my dad not rely on me
plz im begging everyone 4 help i really want a guinea-pig
#18 by Samantha, Aug 10, 2008
I agree with this article TO AN EXTENT. Kids should be able to have pets. Something that is theirs to care for. Pets teach kids responsibility. If they don't take care of the pet and it dies, then they learned the hard way. And if kids are really dedicated to wanting a pet and put tons of research into it, they're going to take good care of it. Most kids just want to sit around and watch tv all day so a pet is a good source of stimulation. However, I do not think young kids (under 12) should be bought a pet that is soley theirs to care for. If the parents aren't willing to help care for a pet for a young child, the pet should not be bought. I do, however, think that teens should be allowed to have pets that are solely theirs without the parents help at all unless there is an emergency.
#19 by B Nelson - Author, Aug 10, 2008
to Samantha - the problem is that teens move out and often cannot take their pets with them, so it is dumped with mom and dad, who maybe do not want it.

to Emily - perhaps pick a different pet, one mom and dad will be okay with.
#20 by emily, Aug 11, 2008
mum and dad say tat laura my sis isnt allowed a hamster coz i dont like the noise at night but im goin on holiday in a week so maybe after holiday i will get one the one most reason why i cant get one is when i go on holiday ten who will look after them coz my frend is always at her nans on the summer holidays so if i can find someone that can look after them then i will have a 99% chance
#21 by emily, Aug 11, 2008
does anyone have a guinea-pig that lives in tiptree that can be friends with me coz no one that lives round tiptree has a guionea-pig except from like 2 people
#22 by Danielle, Aug 31, 2008
Hi I'm Danielle I recently got a guinea pig and a hamster (FINALLY!)(and they are in diffrent cages obviously) except, I've noticed my guinea pig seems lonley and he though my hand was another guinea pig and sat beside it with hay purring and snuggling into it..I felt TERRIBLE.Hes male and I want to get another male for a friend I've asked my mum and she just says "Have you not got enough?" and my dad..well..he says that except more like "YOU SHOULDNT EVEN HAVE GOTTEN THAT GUINEA PIG!" I take really good care of my guinea pig and hamster (they're my babies ;) I chop them up apples everyday,clean their beds,clean food/water etc everyday.They don't understand that I want to get the second guinea pig for my other one, not myself.Im 12 years old (near 13)How can i convince my parents to let me get a 2nd guinea pig?
#23 by ori, Sep 16, 2008
you have to explain that to them, tell them its not for you
#24 by fdudfugdghghgdugudgugufsugfug, Oct 5, 2008
I want a guinea pig, but my mom does not. Yes I did just read this about everyone needs to want it, but I have researched it for 3 months now and I really want one. I am willing to take care of it. The other thing that concerns me is that I have also looked to fing guinea pig shelters, but there are not any around.
I would have to buy from petsmart. Is this okay?
#25 by dkaklhdfhdjfhsjdfhjdshhj, Oct 5, 2008
Samantha, I am 11 going onn 12 in April. Is that okay?
#26 by dcmndmfnamdsnmf, Oct 5, 2008
Can you only have one guinea pig? My mom says I am pushing it asking for one.
#27 by dcmndmfnamdsmf, Oct 5, 2008
By the way does anyone know what "it" is?
#28 by B Nelson, Oct 7, 2008
\"it\" is your moms nerves. The more you beg the more she will resist, so back off for a while. There are usually not Guinea Pig Shelters BUT shelters for cats and dogs often get small animals too.
#29 by Annaleigh, Nov 2, 2008
I dont understand, i am a responsable tidy 13 year old girl who always dose her best in school and at home, never gets in to trouble and no matter how good i am my mum wont let me have one. I only want a hamster or a cat an i am willing to get a paper round to help pay the bills and i will look after it all its life but my mym still dose not let me have one. What shall i do? Please awnser back so i know what to tri next.
#30 by  B Nelson, Nov 2, 2008
Get the paper round FIRST...
dont push your mom, remember it is her house.. but at least you will have money now and if you never get a cat while living at home - you will have money for when you move out - this will give you a better opportunity at finding a place that allows pets.
or maybe your mom will change her mind one day.. dont push though
good luck
#31 by Annaleigh, Nov 4, 2008
thank you and i will try all you have said
#32 by nikki, Nov 27, 2008
i luv my dog but feel depressed and lonely because i feel as if he hates me.i know he coesnt but i have a strong feeling that he dislikes me compared to everyone else in my family.he was supposed to be my dog and my idea was hed follow me around and stuff.i want another weener dog and i tried showing i was responsible by cleaning my parents cars,the house,and the laundry but my om got really mad at me seeing what i was trying to do.that is not going to work if i try it again.i know i will take care of this dog as if he/she were a king/queen.my point is i have plenty savings,i\'ve tried showing my responsibility,done alot of research,and this is all i dream about.what do i do???
#33 by nikki, Nov 27, 2008
also my parents say oh that will be horrible leaving another dog all home alone but i no they r just saying that as an excuse and to make me feel guilty.
#34 by none of your beeswax, Nov 30, 2008
i also have a problem like that. I would like a second dog for Christmas and my mom is almost all the way convinced but she said not for Christmas. we also haven't even asked my dad yet. my mom said when the time's right we will.He'll probably, naturally say no, but how can i change that? I mean, he's not the kind of person where you can just bring it up randomly. I've done everything i can think of; laundry,cleaning my room,and helped him alot around the house. I've also been really nice and eager to please because he has a pretty short temper. What I'm tryin to say is how can I get him to say yes once I bring it up(which will probably be in a few months or so)and how do I know when to bring it up?Sorry if I'm asking for too much.
#35 by cole, Dec 10, 2008
I want a ball python or rabbit but my parents keep saying they dont wanna talk about it i m willing to take care of the pet and i v been doing reserch for a whole year now what do i do
#36 by  B Nelson, Dec 10, 2008
to cole
you might think you are ready.. but ultimately it is the parents who pay for most of the expense and will be responsible for the aquiring of the pet - nobody would sell to a youth. so if they are not willing to commit now - just drop it or ask if their is a pet they would accpet you to have or what requirements they would have for you to get a pet.
#37 by  B Nelson, Dec 10, 2008
to cole
you might think you are ready.. but ultimately it is the parents who pay for most of the expense and will be responsible for the aquiring of the pet - nobody would sell to a youth. so if they are not willing to commit now - just drop it or ask if their is a pet they would accpet you to have or what requirements they would have for you to get a pet.
#38 by Laura, Dec 10, 2008
I wanted a dog for aaaages and ages, and last christmas i got one. I was always asking my mum and dad for one and then last christmas, they surprised me with one! I\'m not bored of him, not at all - i know that a dog isn\'t just for christmas, and i\'m truely not bored with my baby (: But,recently, my uncle and aunty got loads of male and female guinea pigs, and they mated and i\'ve just recieved a text from my uncle saying that they\'ve been born. My uncle said that if we wanted to get some, then we would be able to have 2 for free. So i asked my mum if we could get them and she said that she would think about it, which usually means yes (: then i went to ask my dad, and he said...no. He wasn\'t having any of it. I was really upset by then. This was a really good chance to get guinea pigs...for free! I was thinking maybe, instead of just getting guinea pigs(one for me,age 13 and one for my sister,age 8) for the sake of it, maybe i could ask my parents to get them as a christmas present? I\'m really getting my hopes up and praying that they\'ll yes. I wouldn\'t leave my dog out or anything like that! but the shed is packed full of things we need so i couldn\'t put them in there so maybe my bedroom? I\'ve been doing alot of research and guinea pigs are really not that hard to look after. I\'d give them alot of attention and the same to my dog aswell. What does everyone think about this?
L.
#39 by geckoguy, Dec 10, 2008
i hav 5 pets-2 geckos, 1 ball python, 1 dog, and 1 cockateil. the trick to getting more pets is to BE PATIENT!!!!!!!!
for 4 years i have wanted a snake so desperately. i got one a year ago because i was patient and waited. i didn't complain. no nagging. just a friendly reminder at the pet store. and one day when reminding my mom, she let me buy a python!!!! I asked to hold it first then when my mom saw how much i liked it she figured i should have one.
when i ask her today why she let me get the snake, she said because i was old enough to take care of it on my own.
The lesson is to remind ur parents, & be patient. Plus, show that you readily take care of the pets you have.
But the major thing is that your parents want no part of you r pets. NADA! NIL! ZIP! 0000000! show them you are responsible. ask for something simple like a goldfish or betta, then branch out from there. Eventually when you ask, you'll be delightfully surprised.
#40 by puppyluver, Dec 21, 2008
someone is a little cranky-why did you ask if you didn't want his opinion???
#41 by lksfdgj;lsjda;ljgadljgauruehw, Dec 21, 2008
you guys keep sayin\"oh i got a snake or a guinea pig because i didn\'t nag or anything\".....bull!wanting a snake or hamster/rodent thing isn\'t the same as a dog. I honestly think that if you really like something(and some people are different), you can\'t wait!!!!its so painful!!!i\'ve been there-even though my mom tells me no,\"not unless you don\'t nag\".in a way shes right you shouldn\'t annoy them so much they\'ll give in, but i think it\'s fine to just tell and show how responsible you\'ll be (unless you have really headstrong parents)...
#42 by Lily M., Dec 21, 2008
Hey guys i am 12 and i reallly want a chinchilla
but i want one. i have done much research and they are adequate pets. They tend to NOT stink and nice, sweet, and friendly. Even though they are pricey my rents wont let me get one for christmas. so i am pissed off. can you help me in anyway?
#43 by Bunny L0vEr, Dec 23, 2008
I really want a bunny for christmas. Ive had 1 be4 but my dad dosent want 1. I gave a 30 page power point and he wont give in. I presented it all at once so it was a really cool presentation. if he says stupid stuf like \"youll get bored wit it\" ill say \"No i wont or i wouldn\'t be begging you like this\"
i need your help so please dont say something stupid and offensive
#44 by  B Nelson, Dec 24, 2008
to Bunny LOvEr (#45)
Pets are not Christmas gifts, they are living thing. Christmas is too hectic - bad time to get a pet. A book about bunny care would be a good thing to ask for if its not too late!
save up your money to show commitment and responsibility, but ultimately your parents will be having to remind you - its just a fact - and they will have to care for it if you go away for a few days - so unless they are willing to do that, I am afraid you might not have a bunny until you move out - SO keep saving up so you can rent/buy a place that allows pets then you can have lots - thats what I did!!!
#45 by Echo, Jan 2, 2009
I really want a hamster but i have 2 cats and my mum keeps saying no! i said i would pay for all the stuff that it needs and i will never let the cats anywhere near the hamster. Besides i am always responsable and my Dads always at home to make sure the hamsters alright.And my cousin had a hamster and 3 cats and it live and it died of old age. I'm 12 nearly 13 but my mum just dousn't trust me cos if the hamster was eaten by the cats it would be my loss so she should know that i will take care of it!
#46 by Echo, Jan 2, 2009
But my Dad said he wouldn't mind if i got one but if my mum won't get me one he just says no
#47 by echoecho, Jan 5, 2009
i have a dog who i love dearly, but i also want a cat. i asked my dad and he said "what kind of animal" and i said a cat. he immediatly said "NO"! i asked him to think about it, and next day later i asked have you decided and he again said "NO"! he didnt looke into it or anything!
#48 by echoecho, Jan 5, 2009
i have a dog who i love dearly, but i also want a cat. i asked my dad and he said \"what kind of animal\" and i said a cat. he immediatly said \"NO\"! i asked him to think about it, and next day later i asked have you decided and he again said \"NO\"! he didnt looke into it or anything!
#49 by navkiran, Jan 19, 2009
i really want a dog! i have tried to beg for one but this website helped me relize thats not a good way to get a pet. if you do beg it might work but you will feel really bad and your parents over time might give it away. right now im trying to be responsible, cleaning around the house and stuff. it will take time but i know i earned the pet without begging.
#50 by Tamia = ' . ' =, Jan 25, 2009
This advice realy worked I cant beleave it! AND IM GETTING A HAMSTER FOR MY BIRTHDAY WHICH IS IN FEBRUARY!!! im kinda bumed that my birthday is on the last day of February but i dont care Im getting a hamster!!!!!YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY and i BEGGED to get a hamster i also use THE PUPPY DOG LOOK it works every time for me : D
#51 by Tamia = ' . ' =, Jan 25, 2009
P.S. Im getting a teddy bear hamster And im soooooo excited!!!

:D
#52 by kelsey : ), Jan 25, 2009
hey i want a pig so bad my parents say i cant get one im so mad!!!!! but i do have 2 rats 2 gunie pigs and a dog. you might think im selfish for wanting more but.... a pig is want ive been asking for even be for the rats but i didnt get a pig instead i got 2 rats. maybe ask for something big like a dog or cat when they say no say then at least can i get a hamster or a gunie pig maybe somkething small to begin with.
#53 by Nicole, Jan 28, 2009
My dad thinks that I'm responsible, so I can have a dog, but then my grandma doesn't want me to have a dog, even though she loves dogs. I really want one, I already promised my dad I'll take really good care of it, but she just doesn't want me to have one. :'( I'll do anything for having a dog!
#54 by lauren, Feb 1, 2009
im not sure if im resplonsible i relly want a sheep well two sheep can some one help me pleses!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
#55 by anonymous, Feb 1, 2009
i got a dog and then my parents gave it away how do i get him back
#56 by  B Nelson, Feb 1, 2009
to lauren.
I have sheep they are great pets.. but currently I am busy bottle feeding 3 lambs.. here is a great link on pet sheep. http://www.gomestic.com/Pets/Unusual-Pets-Sheep.125934
it helps if you have parents who like sheep and a proper set up for them

to anonymous #55
if the dog was YOURS and legally in your name then you can charge your parents with theft. if it was in their name, they can do with it what they want, but they should NEVER have gotten a pet they were unwilling to care for and provide a lifetime commitment too, shame on them. Save up your money so when you move out you can get a place that allows dogs and can get a dog of your own.
#57 by Troy, Feb 5, 2009
My mom wont let me get a hedgehod or a ferret im addicted to both, im almost 13 and its all because when I was 10 I didnt take care of my bearded dragon and we had to give it back to the pet store. How do I convince her?
#58 by  B Nelson, Feb 6, 2009
Ferrets are a log of work...as many pets as we have, we dont have a Ferret. I am thinking of getting a Hedgehog though.. ask your mom what kind of pet she would like, work together with her to come to a mutual agreement, but remember it is HER house.
#59 by heyheyyyo, Feb 7, 2009
i used to have a hermet crab and i didnt take care of it so now i cant get another " thing that breaths or poops" as rtefferd to my dad.
#60 by echo, Feb 21, 2009
Please give me advice on getting a hamster
#61 by lynn, Feb 23, 2009
hello. I am almost 13 and i really want a ferret. my mom and dad dont want one, but i want one really badly. i\'ve been looking on the net. i found little ferrets that look like the perfect pets. ive been wanting a ferret/ferrets for about a month or so. i really want one alot. ive asked a lot but they say no. i am willing to do extra chores. what should i do???
#62 by bcmvbnbjcmn, Feb 23, 2009
wow
well you are some what right
but in other places you are just full of crap
sorry
but it is just the way i feel
#63 by alli, Feb 23, 2009
are pet ferrets really smelly? i would like to know.
#64 by lindsay, Feb 25, 2009
hi. im 14 years old and i really want a ferret. my mom and dad dont want one, but i do really badly. ive been looking on the net and i found little ferrets that look like the perfect pets. ive been wanting a ferret/ferrets for over a month. i really want one alot. ive asked mom and dad but they say no. i am willing to do extra stuff but mom says that wont change her mind. what should i do or try???
#65 by dsgui, Feb 26, 2009
my parents dont like pets but
i really want one but the answer is always noooooooooooooo
#66 by Anya, Feb 28, 2009
Hey everyone... yeah... parents sometimes seem like they have 20 eyes and should be green but there are sometimes good reasons for it... I said SOMETIMES.
I\'ve had animals all my life (I\'m 13) Cats since before I was born, mice, girbels, and a couple hamsters. My parents love animals and grew up with them- which helps a lot. Anyway, I decided I would love to try with rats. Yes, rats :) their beautiful and intelligent but it took 4 months of careful persuading to get them.
I RESEARCHED it. The key is to have an answer to every question they through at you (and by they I mean parents). Whatever problem they come up with, you have a solution. What ever they argue, you produce a counter argument thats twice as strong. You present the disadvantages to them maturely then working through all of them. The best convinser is to pay for at least half of all the costs. Write up notes, get out books from the library, show you care.

I\'m about to launch into my next \"project\" with some animals... its a little different but I really fancie getting two pot bellied pigs :D I\'m researching it now and have brought it up with my parents... of course the immeadiate answer was no but I was expecting that.

Good luck with all your parents :)
#67 by Judy, Mar 2, 2009
Hi, I'm 13, and I'm working to get a rabbit.

What I'm doing is researching everything about rabbits. Their behavior and body language, food, grooming, housing, training (including litter training), bunny-proofing things, local vets and shelters, illnesses and symptoms, etc. I'm going to put it all in a folder. Also, I've been keeping my room SPOTLESS and have been doing every chore I can find, even if they're not my responsibility, or if they don't need doing yet. But my parents are pretty stubborn. They're not too keen on having a pet other than the dog we were thinking of getting a few months ago. Should I continue with the project? Am I wasting my time or is this a good idea?
#68 by echo, Mar 15, 2009
PLEASE AWNSAW ME i really want a hamster but my mum won't let me
#69 by echo, Mar 15, 2009
To judy Rabbits are really sweet but dogs are cooler because they are like your best friend that will do anything for you but if you want a rabbit then keep going and good luck its just my oppinion that you should get a dog
#70 by  B Nelson, Mar 18, 2009
to echo #68

find a pet your mom will allow - many kids get hamsters and dont like them because they bite or keep you awake at night, so ask her what pet she might allow instead.... good luck!
#71 by Thank you B Nelson, Mar 21, 2009
Thanks so much i will try to convince her
Thanks again
#72 by Tara, Mar 24, 2009
hey my mom said yes to letting me get a hamster cuz she said she had one when she was a kid she said they where a lot of fun:)i asked my dad if i could get one and he said no!!! i asked him why and he said because they where like rodents i said to myself RODENTS!!!! they are hamsters!!! not rodents, rodents and hamsters are nothing alike! i told him i did research on them and he said i could get sick on them i said becus i was doing so much reseach there is no human to hamster deasese and i have bene saving up my birthday money from when i turned twelve on march, 5, 2009 i added the total of every thing and it ended up to be like 83.45$ and thats plus tax! and i have 90.5$ so i have enough money and he said the hamster could get out of the cage and i looked up on targe.com and i looked up 10 gallon hamster cage and it was only 25.99 and it was 10 gallons i an still trying to convince him please help!!!!!!
















#73 by Tara, Mar 24, 2009
:D help please i really want a teddy bear hammy!!!:(
#74 by fdsdfsdfsdfsdfsdfd, Mar 25, 2009
Hey, my name is Akhil. I want to get a dog, namely a shih tzu. I've done the research, and i have the money. My mom said that I could get one in the summer, but she comes from a place where people are afraid of dogs, and she is also worried about vacations, and if the dog could come with us.I'm worried that she'll hate the dog, and that she won't feel like the house is a "home" anymore. Do you have any tips on how to make my more accustomed to dogs? Any help would be much appreciated.
#75 by fdsdfsdfsdfsdfsdfd, Mar 25, 2009
Hey, I meant to say my mom more accustomed to dogs.
#76 by echo, Mar 26, 2009
to Tara
well i failed on getting a hamster and my dad didn't mind but my mums boss of the house so she said no to a hamster but some advice that helped me convince my dad was gently hint about it for a little while act responsable which i'm sure you are but tidy your room and stuff like that and if your friend has hamsters talk about them maby look after there hamster for the weekend if they go away!
and don't beg!
I wanted a hamster but we have cats and my mum says the cats will eat the hamster even if i put it in a cat proof cage and keep my door shut...
Good luck
#77 by Akhil, Mar 26, 2009
Hey I'm fdsdfsdfsdfsdfsdfd, as I said on #74-75, any help would be appreciated
#78 by  B Nelson, Mar 29, 2009
to Akhil, sorry I have been busy with my animals and did not respond sooner..

let your mom pick the one she likes, have her visit some people with dogs first, to get her relaxed.. adult dogs are less jumpy so that might be a good idea..

never buy from a pet store - you pay too much for a lower quality pet.

do not get one until you are sure mom is ready and you will take it to obedience lessons too.
#79 by tara, Mar 29, 2009
hey thanks for the advice i have cats to but thats not the reason they said no to a hamster but thanks for the advice to echo and also over spring break im waching my friends rat so maybe that will brib them




















to echo from tara
#80 by echo, Mar 30, 2009
to Tara
Thats fine maby you could let your Dad hold the rat and let him get use to it and say but hamsters are cuter and smaller and stuff like that
Bye I have given up because my mum said NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! but i will try to help other people awnser queastions!;]
#81 by Akhil, Mar 30, 2009
Thanks for the advice B Nelson
#82 by Taylor, Apr 4, 2009
This is pretty good! But also try to figure out why your parents won't give in. Is it the money? The responsibility? Or even the pet itself? This will help convince your parents because you can give them the answers they're looking for.
#83 by Laura, Apr 16, 2009
I want a ferret so bad! I know everything about them, I found the perfect cage, the perfect food, and everything! I have read the book "Ferrets for Dummies" 3 times! My dad said yes, but my mom is the boss of my house and said no. I don't know why! I am a top student, and I am very responsible. I had the responsiblity of a dog thrust upon me when my sister stopped taking care of her. I take excellent care of her, and my parents know I do! I love my dog to death, but the dog is still loyal to my sister, and just adores my sister. I want a pet that I picked out, that loves me! I have tried everything to convince my mom. I made a schedule of how I would use my time, and I made a chart of the ferrets needs and the costs. I also made a slideshow on ferrets, adressing the concerns that my mom had! I am 13. All that took 4 hours of my spring break. My mom wouldn't even look at it. I am so disappointed! Can anyone help?!
#84 by echo, Apr 17, 2009
I know how u feel my mum did that to me to but i wanted a hamster
I am still tryin to get my dad to convince my mum.
Ask her why she dosn't want one. And then try and fix that problem unless you can't like me because i have cats that my mum thinks will eat the hamster. Sometime you have to show you are responsable because like with my pet problem my mum dosn't realise that i would always make sure my cats wouldn't get near it and it would be my pet so i would take the most care.
good luck
#85 by bob, Apr 20, 2009
i really want a rat but i have a dog and cat and my mom says ask your dad but of corse he will say no but i wash my dog and feeed both animals but they say i dont take care of them uhhh help!
#86 by *Animal*Lover*, Apr 28, 2009
I really want another pet. This article is saying that the way im trying to convince my mom into letting me have on is all wrong. But what else is there to do. I love animals alot, and i really want to adopt this kitten from the spca. I know i can take care of her because i had animals before, and im ready to take care of eveything, but my mom just keeps saying no, and it makes me really upset. She just keeps saying i can take care of friends pets or something stupid like that. But how can you love someone elses pet, when it isnt your own. Then she started saying i can look at pictures on the compiuter of pets and that should make me happy, but how can you love an animal in a picture, knowing that the owner of that pet loves their pet, but you cant show that love to a pet.
#87 by  B Nelson, Apr 30, 2009
to *Animal*Lover*
Try to find out what kind of pet your mom would allow. Maybe not a kitten, maybe she will allow a cat? or rabbit. You can love animals without owning them. In fact a person who loves animals the most will NOT own them unless they KNOW they can provide lifetime care for that pet (eg people living in apartments that are not allowed pets - should NOT get them - and would wait until they are in a place that allows pets or own their own home)

Your best thing is to get a part time job - save your money even now.. so you can move out eventually into a place that allows pets - very few do.

I am a mom, we have lots of pets, all our cats are spayed and neutered, I would much rather somebody adopt from the shelter than get a "Free" one or one from a pet store. I hope one day your mom will change her mind - but she never will if you keep pushing, and it would be unfair to the pet.
#88 by ryan, May 1, 2009
i really want a hamster and my mom said \'\'you dont no how to care for it\'\'. for her informashin i coped and wrote so many things about a hamster!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i will NOT STOP ANNOYING HER TIL I GET ONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
#89 by Bunny hop, May 15, 2009
I desperatley want a bunny I asked my dad he said of course but you have to take it to your mom\'s house. The bunnies are 15 DOLLARS I TELL YOU 15. So i ask my mom you probally all know the awnser know. My mom thinks bunnies are adorable. I ask her why and she said,\"AFTER WE DONT HAVE ANNY MORE PETS I AM NEVER GONNA GET ANOTHER ONE.\" For petes sake she wont even let me have a goldfish! I told her we can give my evil cat to my dad who actually wants him. I need information as soon as possible on how to get the bunny i always longed for i cannot wait i have already had six fish. i tried every thing but the awnser is always NO! I need that baby bunny and no one is buying her help B Nelson tell me what to do and fast im tired of cring. Kids shouldnt have NO always be the awnser. I will get that bunny by the way im ten years old.
#90 by  B Nelson, May 16, 2009
to Bunny hop comment #89
To be honest, if you are willing to get rid of one pet (cat) then you are probably not really ready for another. It is unfair for the cat to be dumped so you can have a bunny.
I have a daughter and I allowed her to have a bunny. You can sometimes adopt them for less, and might even be able to find one with the cage for free! I should add, my daughter was 12 when we got her bunny.
But really it is your parents decision (and their money) so best thing for you to do is, love the cat, and wait until you are older, when you move out you can have as many pets as you want - thats what I did! (my biggest pet is a donkey, my parents would have never allowed a donkey)
#91 by trixieb, May 24, 2009
i really want a chinchilla. i already have a hamster and have proven that i can take care of it. i always clean its cage and always make sure that it has water. mom says that she is a joy 2 have cuz she doesnt need to do anything. when i asked her to get a chinchilla, she said flat out no. i bought a care book, did my research and said that i would always take care of it and pay for at least half of what it would cost. SOMEBODY HELP!!!!!!!
#92 by Roxanne, May 25, 2009
Hi
I want a pet snake, and I have already looked up the stuff I need to know. I have already got a pet rabbit, but is not very playful,I really want one...HELP

( I am 12)
#93 by  B Nelson, May 26, 2009
to Roxanne.
Love the pet you have, the rabbit, trust me a snake is going to be LESS playful.
#94 by Fabian, Jun 8, 2009
very helpful article
im gonna use this article cause i wannna ball python
#95 by Daryn, Jun 9, 2009
I want a pig SOOO badly but my parents are so headstrong! I'm graduating grade 8 in a week and I want it as my present but they won't let me have this pig! It's a micro mini pig and grows to be no heavier than 40 pounds, it uses a litter box and it sleeps in a bed, comes with a crate, bed, blanket, brush, pellets and litter box! I've done ALL this research on these pigs and my parents STILL won't give in!!
#96 by parents suck, Jun 13, 2009
it has been 2 years since i had a pet last!!!i only have one dog but shes getting old i really want someone to play with me as a pet!!!!!!!
#97 by BunBunLover, Jun 18, 2009
I really think B Nelson is looking at kids in an awful way! Not all are irritant, little, brats. In fact, I would like a rabbit to the point that I think about ways to persuade my parents 24/7.
I do NOT think B Nelson should put kids down this way! It's not right. And all these kids want is help.
I constantly search rabbit cages online. Bunnies make me really happy, and my dad and my mom say "No bunny until after vacation!" And they remind me all the time. If one of them caught me writing this or on this website, I'd be dead.
Really, B Nelson, you have a good point, but my family loves animals and they can't resist them. Recently we got a new puppy after my old dog died and a new hamster after my old hamster died. When my cat goes we will probably get a new cat.
I even have a spot in my room where I can put a bunny! I even know which breed I want.
Now all these kids want is help. A rabbit's lifespan is about ten years. I am hoping I will be able to buy a house where I can have pets, not an apartment.
Have I said enough? Yes, I think I have. Any questions just post.
#98 by Nicole, Jun 22, 2009
I want to breed my hamster but my mom said NO. What do I do? and dont just say leave it at that. i really want to breed her. i told her i would take care of all of them like i do cleo now. (which is very good) i think the main point of my mom saying no is that im always at horse shows and she would have to take care of them (for only 2 days).
#99 by maddie, Jun 26, 2009
dear um whoever runs this website um my mom wants to get another pet but she says were not home enough to take care of whitch were not but i want a pet so bad
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