Getting a pet, parents unconvinced, how to "encourage" them?

Question

I'm looking to get a pet (probably a dog) soon but my parents won't have it for some reason (like I won't walk it every day). How best can I convince them to change their standpoint and let me have a pet, only a small thing like a Westie or Norfolk Terrier ?

Answer 1

i suppose its hard to answer this not knowing how old you are. but being at home still you need to respect your parents wishes, it doesnt matter what size the dog is, its a very serious responsibility and will be in their house wandering about and doing all the things dogs do. you have to be so sure before buying a dog that you have the time and money to commit to it, and at least 10 years plus. you should wait until you have your own place and can take on the responsibilty properly

Answer 2

I can imagine how frustrating it must be for you wanting a pet especially a dog but at the same time i can understand their standpoint, there is always that risk that after a while of having the dog that maybe you will get fed up of walking fido in all winds and weather which would mean mam or dad having to take on the responsability, Why not try starting up a dog walking service at least it would give you an insight as to what its like caring for a dog and at the same time put a few pennies in your pocket.and who knows if your parents see you doing a good job then just maybe they will have more positive thoughts on the idea?

Answer 3

Ooooo, Westies and Norfolks are so cute!

Here's what I suggest - ask your parents what it is that they are concerned about you getting a dog. Is it dog hair? Poop in the yard? You not feeding, watering, or walking the dog?
Determine specifically what they are thinking. Then - realistically decide if you can alleviate their oncerns and agree to take care - completely - of whatever the thing is stopping them from allowing you a dog.

You sound like a smart and level headed youngster. Get some library books on both of these breeds and read them. You might also leave the books within your parent's view so they might also read them.

I wish you luck and hope you let us know how it goes.
Bobbie F

Answer 4

Are you mature and trustworthy in other areas of your life? If so, take into consideration the expense of a dog: series of puppy shots, heartworm prevention, spaying or neutering, crates, toys, food, extra money if it gets sick. What if it has allergies (Westies are famous for bad skin problems) and needs medication it's whole life? What if you want to go out with friends or go away somewhere? Then your parents will have to take care of it. Will you walk it and play with it every day? Get up during the night to housebreak it? Take it to college if you are old enough and still have the dog? If you fail in any of these responsibilities, your parents would have the right to find another home for the dog. Do your research and show them how serious you are. I was 8 years old and I took care of my animals myself and was extremely responsible. My parents did have to pay the bills. Can you do other chores to earn money for the pet care? Maybe you can start with a small pet, like a rodent, and prove you are responsible. Good luck!

Answer 5

Convince them that you are serious by doing some research on the internet. Find out more about responsible dog ownership - what will the type of dog you would like need to be happy and healthy? Try to think of the kind of lifestyle your family can offer a dog and choose a breed that would be most suited to your family. Looking into things more closely might show them that you are mature and sensible enough to help with the care of a dog. They are a lot of work! Remember that it needs to be a family decision, everyone must agree that a dog would be a good idea. Otherwise you might not be able to provide the best life for a dog. Remember that a dog is for life too.

Answer 6

Do as much research as you can. The do some calculations as to how much the animal will cost to feed, neuter, vaccinate, vets bills, yearly checks etc to see if you can afford it. Remember to include things like holiday care etc when talking about getting an animal so they know you're serious. Also take into consideration how long it is until you go to uni or college as they may have to take over the care of your pet. Another route which we suggest to young people is to either volunteer at a rescue for a few weeks/ months to show your parents your commitment to cleaning etc or try fostering. Fostering or going to a rescue allows you to have loads of contact with lots of animals without the long term commitment but have the support of the rescue and your parents. Good luck.

Answer 7

Hiya,
Believe me, I have had no end of trouble bugging parents to get me a dog, but I might be able to help.
Exaggerate all the good points making it seem like a wonderful pet to have.
Research dog breeds to find the one that is right for you and your family.
Explain that with a dog you would get more exercise and it would allow the family 'quality time'!
Look on RSPCA re-homing websites and get the weaker parent to look at the cute animals!
Beg your heart out!!!

Answer 8

if their concern is that you will lose interest in the dog, which is not unreasonable, as most kids do, then one suggestion is that you find a neighbour or family friend with a dog and offer to give it a regular walk and then keep this up for a while no matter how you feel or the weather etc so they know you will do the same if you get a dog of your own.

Answer 9

Show them how responsable you are. Walk a neighbours dog for them and do all your parents ask. Behave! It took me 10 years of pestering and now my baby is 6 and I have just got a friend for her. Keep going it will pay off.

Answer 10

Convince them you'll look after it,that you'll clean up the poo,that you'll take it for walks,when it's pouring with rain or snowing outside,not just until the novelty wears off.