Convincing Mom For a Guinea Pig.

Question
How do i convince my mom that i can get a guinea pig?I have been doing a TON of research but she says she does not know so please give me some ideas. Thanks

Answer
Convincing your mom is going to be a serious effort. As a mother I can tell you that the first thing you have to do is convince her that you're responsible enough to own a pet. In most cases when a mom is reluctant it's because of a previous track record. We know that sooner or later (and it's usually sooner) we, the mother will have to take over.  So you have a job to do to convince her you're able to do the job.

It has nothing to do with age, it has to do with commitment and responsibility. I know I'm hammering that word at you but that's what the issue is.

Having a guinea pig is a four to five year commitment. Your mother should not have to worry about that pet. It's YOUR responsibility.  You need to show her you're up for it.

I find that making a written contract between you and mom works, but it means you're signing and agreeing that at no time does mom have to water, feed or clean up after your pet. If she's reluctant it may be that she already has to clean up your room, put away your laundry and do your dishes. That is NOT responsibility.  

If you break your part of the contract you have given mom a promise in writing that she can give or sell your pet to someone else without your consent. And she should. There should be no reason, other than health or illness, that would cause her to have to do what you should be doing.

I'm sure this sounds a little harsh to you, but I've given away many pigs over the years and when I do I always make the new owner sign a written agreement that they and they alone will be responsible for the pig. If at any time mom has to tell them to feed, water or clean the cage the animal comes back to me, no questions.

Somehow that written promise takes on a stronger sense of responsibility and removes any argument for the consequences of not caring for your pig.  If you already have issues with your mom having to tell you to clean your room, put away your laundry or do the dishes she's not likely to give in easily, and for good reason.

There you have it. You know what you need to do. Please have mom read this response and the two of you discuss it.

Good luck to you and please keep me posted as to whether or not you've come to an agreement.