Leopard Gecko: Convincing Parents It's a Great Idea :-)

[morla]

Hi! As some of you know, I do not have a gecko but I really want to get a leopard gecko. I am in the proccess of trying to get my parents to say yes. I am trying not to beg because that will not help my situation. I have told my parents about them and all. What are the positive and negative things of having a leopard gecko? And what would you guys reccomend me telling them in order for them to say yes?

 

[cricket4u]

Marla,

Yes they are wonderful, but they come with lots of responsibility. I can totally understand why I parent will refuse. Due to financial responsibility, it will be a burden on your parents. It's very sad for us to have to hear over and over, "I cannot afford to take my gecko to a vet." Seeing a gecko suffer is heartbreaking. It may be best to wait until you are old enough to find a job. I am sure you want the best for your pet.

Proper housing and equipment necessary can get expensive. Will you be happy with a gecko who spends most of their time hiding or only active late at night? Personalities vary. What happens if you decide to go to college? on vacation? They can live a very long time if properly taken care of. You have a lot to think about. Thank you for researching before you make such a huge decision.

http://www.geckosunlimited.com/community/n00b-central/63779-plan-before-you-buy.html

 

[Aimless]

I would also like to second everything C4U says! I have worked with a rescue for over 6 years now. ALL the time we take in animals that kids "no longer have time for", or "can't afford", or for many other reasons need to "rehome".

while some youngsters can be very responsible and do a great job, I personally feel that minors should NEVER have pets unless it's a family effort. I've just seen the situation go badly for the animal too many times.

 

[SORROW89]

NO,NO,NO Wait until you have a job please. I know this isn't what you want to hear, but you will thank us later, TOO many leos suffer under the hands of youth. I see it everyday in different forums. The geckos end up dying terribly living in bad conditions and with no money for a vet.