How to Get Your Dad to Say Yes to a Lizard

Convincing your parents to let you have the pet that you want can often be a challenge. Although lizards are often more contained than other more traditional pets such as cats and dogs, many parents might feel uncomfortable with the idea of having a lizard in the house. Also, although lizards can be excellent pets, they are sometimes difficult to keep, as they require specific care in order to remain healthy. In order to convince your parents that you're ready for a lizard, act mature and outline the benefits of a lizard as a pet.

Instructions

    • 1

      Research the type of lizard that you want. Many types of lizards require a lot of specific care, and can be challenging to keep, even for experienced lizard owners. Other types of lizards, such as bearded dragons or leopard geckos, are easier to keep, and make a better choice for beginner reptile owners. Research where you can buy a lizard, and also what you'll need to buy for its habitat and food needs. By researching the lizard you want, you can demonstrate to your mother or father that you know about the animal and its care needs.

    • 2

      Present your case in a mature fashion. Any pet is a big responsibility, and requires a mature owner. If you argue or complain, your parents might not think you're ready for a lizard. Instead, enthusiastically tell your parents about the lizard you want. Show them that you know how to care for it, and are ready to do so. Parents usually don't want to be stuck taking care of a pet, so you'll need to be ready to do this yourself. Be prepared to clean out the food and water bowls daily, and give fresh food and water, too. You'll also need to clean the habitat whenever it gets dirty.

    • 3

      Point out that lizards spend most of their time in their enclosed habitats, and won't usually wander about the house unless someone's watching them. This means the lizard will not make messes around the house. Also, tell your parents about how most lizards don't need a lot of physical attention. They don't like to be picked up and held, and are happy to simply remain in their habitats, making them a less demanding pet than more traditional pets.

    • 4

      Explain that, once the lizard habitat is set up, beginner lizards are usually easy to care for, and not overly expensive.

    • 5

      Discuss the fact that lizards don't shed fur, and are therefore hypoallergenic. This point is especially useful if you, your parents, or any other members of your family have allergies to pet fur.