Convincing parents..?

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Chub_by

Redtail Catfish
MFK Member
Jan 30, 2012
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Basic story: I want a ball python. My mother doesn't want me having a reptile ( which is BS, but I'll come to that late on) and although she does like snakes, she doesn't want one in the house.
What really annoys me, she doesn't even allow me a gecko or something. When I told her about wanting one a few years ago, she'd say I'm not responsible enough to care for it.
Fare enough, BUT she allowed my sister two tortoises almost immediately after she asked. And after a few months, my sister really started caring less and less about them. We've had them 5 years now, and guess who does the most for them: My parents and , ironically me! Also, I do a 50% WC on my 60 gal weekly or every second week with just a bucket. That's a real PITA, but I do it, since I am responsible for the life and health of my fish. My sister can't even be bothered to change her tortoises water.
So to all you guys living with their parents, have you got any tips on how to change my moms mind? How did you guys do it with your parents?

Oh and BTW, just because I'm talking about my mum doesn't mean my dad has nothing to say in our house. He's just more relaxed when it comes to these things.

Thanks in advance :)

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Trying striking a deal with like. For example, "Mom, I understand that you feel that I am not responsible enough yet to own a reptile." "What is it that I can do to change your mind?" "If you let me get a reptile, I will take up other chores such as laundry, dishes, clean the house, or etc weekly to demonstrate my competency." Just ask her in a genuine yet serious manner which shows that you mean business. I was in a similar position as you when I wanted to upgrade my tank into a 125g. The easy thing was I just gave my gf $$ to shop and i was cleared. Luckily I only spent $60 in all for the upgrade and spent around $200 for her. All in all, my fishes love their new tank and my girl is happy with her new crap. Good luck with your endeavor.
 
Basic story: I want a ball python. My mother doesn't want me having a reptile ( which is BS, but I'll come to that late on) and although she does like snakes, she doesn't want one in the house.
What really annoys me, she doesn't even allow me a gecko or something. When I told her about wanting one a few years ago, she'd say I'm not responsible enough to care for it.
Fare enough, BUT she allowed my sister two tortoises almost immediately after she asked. And after a few months, my sister really started caring less and less about them. We've had them 5 years now, and guess who does the most for them: My parents and , ironically me! Also, I do a 50% WC on my 60 gal weekly or every second week with just a bucket. That's a real PITA, but I do it, since I am responsible for the life and health of my fish. My sister can't even be bothered to change her tortoises water.
So to all you guys living with their parents, have you got any tips on how to change my moms mind? How did you guys do it with your parents?

Oh and BTW, just because I'm talking about my mum doesn't mean my dad has nothing to say in our house. He's just more relaxed when it comes to these things.

Thanks in advance :)

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I have convinced my parents to let me get 4 aquariums and a adult bearded dragon:

Ask them what pets they had as a child (let them get happy memories) and then convince the more "gullible" one to look at awesome pictures or videos of what you want, then get them to help you convince the other person

:) good luck!


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A fish tank is a lot more responsibility than a ball python. I went to my dad when my mom was at work and we ordered a couple snakes right there and then lol

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I've learned with my parents just do it.. If you ask they'll say no. But do be responsible and pay costs yourself. Also chip in for utilities etc..
 
I agree with Atfownz, be responsible and show that you really care enough about getting one. Kids all too often want a pet and then get bored. Even though you took up your sister's pet care, Im sure it didnt help too much that she really wanted one and then stopped caring. Map it out for them, a kid who took the time to add up and lists the cost is a kid who cared enough to really put time and thought into it. If you map it out, also make sure to factor in future expenses, such as the increased costs of the animal growing, more food, more bedding etc. I can say it costs me more to feed my snakes a rat, than when they were smaller and ate multiple mice. Factor in electricity and all those costs. If you really wanted to get technical, there are devices that plug into the wall socket and then into the device and measure exactly how much electricity each appliance uses. If you show you are truly devoted and really care, eventually she may change her mind.

I wouldnt just do it either, especially if they have already said no. It is there house and they have a saw in what is in it. If you blatantly ignore them saying no, than all of the kissing butt and acting responsible goes down the drain, as well as being disrespectful.

Since my father loves all pets and has had everything from turtles and iguanas to rabbits and ducks, I decided to bring home my snakes to show him one time while visiting. Thats when I learned about my parents phobia of snakes that he never wanted to tell anyone. Sometimes there are subtle reasons they dont want to tell you lol
 
Thanks a bunch to all of you,means alot that you all want to help me!

Trying striking a deal with like. For example, "Mom, I understand that you feel that I am not responsible enough yet to own a reptile." "What is it that I can do to change your mind?" "If you let me get a reptile, I will take up other chores such as laundry, dishes, clean the house, or etc weekly to demonstrate my competency." Just ask her in a genuine yet serious manner which shows that you mean business. Good luck with your endeavor.
That's a good idea, I think I'll have to sit down and talk to her when she's in the mood( problem is she almost always says"not now" )
Thanks:)

I have convinced my parents to let me get 4 aquariums and a adult bearded dragon:

Ask them what pets they had as a child (let them get happy memories) and then convince the more "gullible" one to look at awesome pictures or videos of what you want, then get them to help you convince the other person

:) good luck!


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Thanks, yeah my dad is more easy going when it comes to these things so I'll ask him first.

A fish tank is a lot more responsibility than a ball python. I went to my dad when my mom was at work and we ordered a couple snakes right there and then lol

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Haha ;)
I wouldn't say a fish tank is more responsibility,though. Every animal is a responsibility.
I've learned with my parents just do it.. If you ask they'll say no. But do be responsible and pay costs yourself. Also chip in for utilities etc..
That would mean my death, believe me, also it would end all of my pet-keeping career..

I agree with Atfownz, be responsible and show that you really care enough about getting one. Kids all too often want a pet and then get bored. Even though you took up your sister's pet care, Im sure it didnt help too much that she really wanted one and then stopped caring. Map it out for them, a kid who took the time to add up and lists the cost is a kid who cared enough to really put time and thought into it. If you map it out, also make sure to factor in future expenses, such as the increased costs of the animal growing, more food, more bedding etc. I can say it costs me more to feed my snakes a rat, than when they were smaller and ate multiple mice. Factor in electricity and all those costs. If you really wanted to get technical, there are devices that plug into the wall socket and then into the device and measure exactly how much electricity each appliance uses. If you show you are truly devoted and really care, eventually she may change her mind.

I wouldnt just do it either, especially if they have already said no. It is there house and they have a saw in what is in it. If you blatantly ignore them saying no, than all of the kissing butt and acting responsible goes down the drain, as well as being disrespectful.

Since my father loves all pets and has had everything from turtles and iguanas to rabbits and ducks, I decided to bring home my snakes to show him one time while visiting. Thats when I learned about my parents phobia of snakes that he never wanted to tell anyone. Sometimes there are subtle reasons they dont want to tell you lol
Thanks for the answer! Costs wouldn't be the problem since they pay the food and electricity for my tank and pond as well, so why shouldn't they for terrarium.
Both haven't got snake phobia, they actually like them.


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I am one of those parents who like snakes but will not have one at home.

There are lots of issues to consider, for instance, I know lots of our friends are afraid of snakes, and no, get new friends is not an option.


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Hello; How about following your parents rules while living under their roof and eating their food. Later on getting what ever you want when you have a place of your own. That has worked well for most of the people I know.
I can only guess at how unplesant life must be for the parents of children that "just do it.. If you ask they'll say no." I knew such people when I was young and such a philosophy left their entire family with lifelong trust issues. Try to imagine that your parents never can fully trust you for the rest of their lives.
 
Get dad on board.... - Owner of 220/110/75 gallon tanks with /Asian aro/NGT datnoid/Channa Pulchra, etc...
 
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