How to Talk Parents Into Getting a Gerbil

If you want your parents to agree to get a pet gerbil, you'll have to be prepared to discuss the reasons why it will be a good idea. Before you start the conversation, be thoroughly convinced of the merits of having one of these little animals, and know exactly how you will present your case.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Discuss maintenance. The last thing any busy parent wants is another chore. Talk to your parents about what it takes to maintain a gerbil. Convince them, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that you will take proper care of your new pet.
2. Talk to them about cost. Your parents may not want to incur any additional expense. Tell them what gerbils and their maintenance cost. Let them know that you're willing to use your own allowance money to buy and maintain the gerbil. You might stand a better chance of getting one.
3. Convince your parents that gerbils are quiet. Frazzled parents love their peace and quiet. If your gerbil will be running around in a squeaky exercise wheel, that might just put the kibosh on your plan.
4. Figure out the poop factor. All animals must eat; therefore, they all must poop. Discuss this with your parents. Discuss how much the gerbil will poop and how eager you are to clean it up to keep the cage looking and smelling clean.
5. Bargain with your parents. Tell them (and actually mean it) that if they allow you to get a gerbil, that you will clean your room, get straight A's in school, wash the clothes, shampoo the rug, cut the grass, shovel the snow, mop the floors, be nice to your little sister, wash the dishes ... you get the idea.

Tips & Warnings

• Gerbils are adorable, cute little rodents. They looked especially nice in a pet store. If you want the gerbil to make the transition from pet store to your home, you've got to make sure you do your homework before you approach your parents.