Make your bed after you get up. If your parents take a quick peek into your room, a well-made bed can make your room look that much better. Don’t leave any cups or empty plates in your room. It just looks sloppy.
Your parents are much more likely to agree to you getting a pet if you’re doing well in school and your teachers have nothing but good things to say about you.
Show your parents that you’re responsible by going above and beyond when they give you a chore. Don’t cut corners or do the bare minimum.
Make sure you have all that you need before you pet sit. You don’t want to look like you can’t handle it.
A responsible person wouldn’t rush into a decision on a whim. They would look into it and become knowledgeable about it. Show your parents that you’re responsible by knowing your stuff. Research the costs of any medications or supplies your pet requires. If your pet requires special equipment like a heating lamp or terrarium, make a note of the cost and maintenance for the equipment.
Collect any birthday money or gift money that you receive to add to your pet fund. Ask your parents if they have any jobs that you could do for a few extra bucks.
Write down what times you would walk or groom your pet. Make a note in your schedule about vet visits and trips to the pet supply store. Make a list of any preventative medications that you plan to get to keep your pet healthy.
Include any walking or play time in the daily schedule as well.
Print out materials to use when you talk to your parents about getting a pet. Make a PowerPoint presentation with each slide presenting a piece of your research. Nothing says professional like a PowerPoint slideshow!
Don’t nag them either. The more you ask them about it, the less responsible and impatient you’ll seem.
Don’t force them to answer the question in the moment. Tell them you can answer any additional questions they may have.
Mention your grades at school and tell them that a new pet wouldn’t disrupt your studies, affect your grades, or keep you from your household chores. Break out the PowerPoint presentation!
If they’re hesitant or not open to you getting a new pet, ask them what you can do to help convince them that you’re responsible enough for one.
If they’re against the idea entirely, you can ask them their reasons, but do it in a respectful manner. Say, “Okay, would you mind telling me what I could do to possibly change your mind?” Listen to their opinions on the matter. They may have some good insight that you hadn’t considered.
