Would you like a pet and are you wondering how to ask your parents for it? Here are some steps to follow to make the discussion a little easier.
Steps
Step 1. Think carefully about whether you really want a pet
Pets take time, responsibility, money, work, and more. Buying a pet, and only understanding afterwards that you really don't want it, is a source of problems for everyone, especially for the pet.
Step 2. Do some research in books or on the internet to understand what kind of care the pet you are interested in needs
Some animals need to be cleaned and bathed often, others have a special diet, and still others need to exercise every day or need a lot of attention. Make sure you have the time and money before applying to your parents. Here are some things to consider before buying an animal.
- Does he behave well with children or with other animals?
- Do you lose a lot of hair? Will you have time to take care of her dressing table?
- Is it hypoallergenic? That is: can people who are allergic to the hair of some animals stay close to them?
- Do you have a chance to get him enough exercise?
- Do you have an outdoor space to keep it? Is it big enough?
- Does it need a lot of food?
- What diseases can it develop?
Step 3. Start talking about the topic a little at a time
Raise the question from time to time, perhaps at the dinner table or when you feel the time is right. Don't bring up the subject when your parents are in a hurry, tired or irritable. Choose the right time carefully!
Step 4. Show your parents that you are responsible enough to take care of an animal
After reading everything you need to know about the pet you have chosen, you can show your parents that you understand perfectly what the responsibilities of having a pet are. You can also make a list of the things you think your pet will need, the time you will spend looking after him, how much the things he needs might cost, and other important factors.
Step 5. In your speech, explain all the reasons why you want a pet
Also include the rules you will follow to take full responsibility for your pet (you can show your list here). You can also share your ideas on how he will be looked after when you and your family are on vacation: for example, you could look for some great pet sitting services (babysitting for animals) or demonstrate how he could take part in the trip too.
Step 6. Parents like to do great deals
Find a pet shop in your area that has a good choice of cheap pets, and ask your parents to take a look with you. It might be useful to make friends with the store manager, before visiting it with your parents, so that he is your ally in the negotiation!
Step 7. Offer to use your pocket money to buy and care for your pet
It will make a good impression on your parents and show that you are responsible and that you really want it. Let your parents know what financial help you will still need but show that you are at least willing to help.
Step 8. Becoming a volunteer at an animal protection association will introduce you to a little more about how animals are cared for and will encourage your parents
Helping your friends with their pets can also help.
Advice
- A good idea might be to ask for a small, easy-to-care-for pet. Some parents dislike large animals, such as cats and dogs. Small reptiles or rodents might be a good start, but be careful not to get bored of him: even if he doesn't require a lot of attention, you should always take care of your pet.
- If you want a pet that your parents don't approve of, try to compromise. In fact, you must also take your family members into consideration when choosing your pet. For example, if you want a rat, accept the compromise of getting a mouse or a gerbil; if you want a nice toad, opt for a frog; if you want a snake ask for a large lizard, like a skink. Remember not to beg your parents - it will make you sound whiny and desperate.
- When choosing your pet, take your home into consideration. Do you live in a small apartment or in a villa? Your pet's size and habits will need to be appropriate for your home. Mice, for example, are suitable for small houses, but if they are not cared for regularly they can get very dirty; a dog, on the other hand, is more suited to a large yard.
- Attach a tag that says "Money for my dog" (or any other animal you want) to your piggy bank. Your parents will think it's nice and mature.
- Make a pet request for your birthday!
Warnings
- You can get different results - remember to always be polite and your persistence could pay off. Your birthday request may also work well if you show you're willing to wait a long time and keep your interest in the subject alive.
- Don't beg your parents. It will make you seem irresponsible and boring. Just be consistent and polite in your request and always try to provide compelling reasons for buying an animal. If it doesn't work, try again, maybe a year later, or wait patiently.
