I need help.

[kelleykid]

Hi. In the past month i have been obsessed with chams, i have a lot of spare time and spend it either at my friend's house who has a cham and tells me everything and lets me help take care of it. Or I'm at home researching chameleons or watching videos on preparing a habitat or just watching them in general. Bassically i know just about everything.. Here is my problem.. i don't own a chameleon, i am 15 and really want one but my parents don't trust i know what I'm doing and that i will take care of them. I will though. I am very responsible with my other pets, but my parents just keep telling me I'm not ready. Im i love with Chams.. does anyone know how i can show or tell my parents I'm ready for this? Thanks -Owen

 

[SilverWolf]

Hi. In the past month i have been obsessed with chams, i have a lot of spare time and spend it either at my friend's house who has a cham and tells me everything and lets me help take care of it. Or I'm at home researching chameleons or watching videos on preparing a habitat or just watching them in general. Bassically i know just about everything.. Here is my problem.. i don't own a chameleon, i am 15 and really want one but my parents don't trust i know what I'm doing and that i will take care of them. I will though. I am very responsible with my other pets, but my parents just keep telling me I'm not ready. Im i love with Chams.. does anyone know how i can show or tell my parents I'm ready for this? Thanks -Owen

Unfortunately I do not really know how you could. The way I convinced my parents was "I will pay for it." LOL before that they said "no more pets" but the real reason was mainly "No more spending money on animals." XD Once I made enough myself they were more open to it and at the same time allowed my siblings to get a bearded dragon. I do not know you're parents, so I do not know how other than maybe explaining and showing how you can take care of your friend's chameleon. Maybe if your friend goes on vacation, you can take care of their chameleon while they're away. And show your parents that you know what you're doing. The only thing I can do I guess is pray for you and that you can have a new reptilian friend. XD

 

[kelleykid]

Thanks! Haha interesting story!

 

[Galaxy]

In my experience, the best way to get something you want is to have a written plan. Make a list of all the products you need and the prices and plans on how you will get the money to purchase it. Anything from odd jobs for family and neighbors, to saving allowance, and even finding a local job that's willing to hire younger people (bagging at grocery stores is a good start.
Write out a care schedule, compare it to caring for other pets. And just sit down with your parents and present all your material and ideas. Maybe even "introduce" them to your friends chameleon if their family doesn't mind.

 

[my sweet Picasso]

Just start being responsible. Instead of them asking you to do chores or clean your room etc. Do it and if you are showing them you can handle all the normal things in a teens life then you can start saying well I am trying to show you I can be responsible because I truly want a chameleon. It's a thought. .. good luck.

 

[junglefries]

Try a volunteer program (community service) or zoo internship. Agree to a set specified time limit with your parents. If and when you accomplish the set goals, you get to start with a veil or other cheap and easier chameleon. After a year of success, which should put you at 16-17, and able to drive, which would be very beneficial for your cham, you get to upgrade if you desire. Sound good?