LIFE

No one can say "no" to the cuddly face of a brand new puppy...except Mom and Dad, that is. Ugh. Playing with the neighbors pets are cool but there's nothing like having your own furry–or scaly–pal to bond with and call your own. If you're in the process of trying to convince your parents to let you get a pet and aren't having much succcess, we've rounded up some tips to help you (hopefully) get the four-legged friend you've been pining over. 

Be on your best behavior.
One of the biggest reasons your parents probs aren't down for a new pet is becasue they feel like the responsbility is going all fall on them. They have enough on their plates with going to work, putting food on the table and dealing with your craziness. You need to prove to them that you are responsible through your actions not just because you say you are. Show them how mature you are by washing the dishes without complaint, keeping your room tidy without them asking and making an effort to spend time with the fam as opposed to disappearing on the weekends with your friends. Most importantly, stay on top of your school work (they likely won't even consider it if you're pulling C's and D's on the regular.) They'll notice the change and respect your case for a pet more when the time comes.

Play it cool.
Before you start jumping down their throat begging for a new kitty, casually mention how cute your neighbor's cat is or that a pet would be a great addition to your family. Listen to their responses before diving in with your pitch. Slip it into conversation every once in awhile so it will be in the back of their minds before you make the big proposal.

Do your research.
Start by making a list of every con argument that they could possibly bring up: you can't take a the dog out after school because of field hockey practice, your little sister is afraid of birds, a pet snake is boring, the list goes on and on. Then write a list of pros outlining how the pet could benefit your family. For every con, find a counter argument that will help your case. You need to be fully prepared when your parents are ready to entertain the conversation. Look up prices, reconsider your scheduele, Google types of animals, places to rescue etc.

Save up.
Pets cost money. And not just the inital purchase which can be anywhere from $50 to $5,000 depending on what animal you're try to get. Don't forget about shots and veternary vists, buying leashes, litter boxes, tanks and food, of course. Even if your parents aren't too keen on taking your babysitting bucks, showing that you took initiative to start a pet fund will prove you are in fact responsible. 

Plan your proposal.
You've done all the prep and now it's time for them to hear you out. Even if your parents are super busy, this is a convo that should be done in person (not via text!) so ask your mom and dad when would be a good quiet time for them to talk about something that's been on your mind. Stay calm and collected, present all your evidence and shoot your shot.

Be patient.
It's rare that you'll get an enthusiastic yes right off the bat. Give your parents time to talk it over and if they say no this time around, don't quite give up. Listen to their explanations and use that feedback for your future plan of attack. Before bringing it up again, give them some space. At some point you'll annoy them so much that they'll have to give in! 

How did you get your parents to let you have a pet? Share your secret to success below! 

by Karlyn Sykes | 7/9/2017