Help Convincing Dad to Get Piggies?

guineapiglover394

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Hello!
I've always wanted guinea pigs, but my dad is allergic. He says he doesn't want them in the house, but if I got them there would be a space in my room for them. He would never need to be near it, and my door can be closed 24/7. I know it's not just the allergies he's complaining about. He doesn't want more pets in the house anyway. (we have a dog) Does anyone have any tips for convincing a parent to get a pet? Also, any helpful articles about allergies? The more I know, the stronger my argument will be. Thanks!
 
hi! so first of all make sure u do proper research and your really up to the challenge. guinea pigs arent as easy to take care of as u might assume.
for the allergy situation, any way u can keep them outside? many ppl on this forum keep a hutch in a shed or garage, and i myself keep them straight outside in a hutch (but most of the time the weather is too harsh for that, i happen to live in a place with perfect weather for guinea pigs. the only real solution is a shed). also, consider skinny pigs-guinea pigs without fur. they're perfect for ppl who are allergic.
once u are absolutely sure u can handle guinea pigs, and have done tons of research, prove your responsible enough. idk your age so it could be this doesnt apply, but if your a teen, take a lot of initiative around the house. if your the main caretaker of your dog, piont out how responsible u are. if u arent the main caretaker, do things without being asked. if your still in school, make sure your grades are decent, so your parents know taking care of guinea pigs wont affect them.
the last thing i can recommend is proving u've done your research. find a rescue/shelter where u can adopt guinea pigs and casually bring it up. randomly say different facts abt guinea pigs to your parents, such as "hey dad, did u know......" etc. but make sure not to overdo it and be patient! this can take months
good luck!
 
The first thing would be to ask if you can set aside the time to talk about it calmly and when everyone has time to discuss it properly.
It is always hard when you still live with your parents, but if you work and can cover the costs and say you can keep them in your room, then this should help.
Maybe also look into buying an air purifier which you could run in your room to reduce any allergens, and show you are respectful of your Dad's allergies.
 
Hi! It very much depends on what exactly your pa is allergic to and how severe those allergies are. I am allergic to just about everything, so I make do with fleece as bedding and hay that is not at all dusty. Sometimes I do receive a bad batch of hay and my allergies are quick to complain.

It's something you all need to have a serious discussion about, allergies are a nightmare to deal with and animals are a big responsibility, so I do understand your dad's side very well. You can always get them later on in life if you cannot reach a compromise. Meanwhile you can do tons of research and come of with a game plan for the future pigs :)

Best of luck.
 
I'm assuming you are over 18 and would be taking full responsibility for the piggies including daily care and vets costs so please correct me if I am wrong. In this case you need to fully understand the concerns. Unfortunately it will always ultimately come down to the home owner/bill payers decision and if your dad does have allergies then it would be unfair to expect him to live in daily discomfort for you to own piggies.
 
My piggies live in my garage as my husband has hay fever and asthma. I would feel very guilty to make his symptoms worse.
 
I just wanted to add that piggies are in no way cheap animals, their vet bills can snowball from hundreds to thousands at a time with a poorly piggie. Not trying to put you off but people see piggies as a cheap children’s animal when it’s very far from the truth x
 
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