By Sophia Ackerman

Q: I really want to get a dog, but my parents won’t let me. How can I make them see that I’m ready to take care of a pet?

A:  Sounds like you really want a dog. If you want to show your parents that you are ready for the responsibility of a pet, you need to prove to them that you can be trusted. Start with researching what type of dog would be best for your family, and check the local animal shelter to see what types of dogs are available. Believe me, dogs are a lot of work, and it just might not be the right time to adopt a pet. If you are about to go out of town, it isn’t the best time to get a pet. But to show your parents that you can handle the responsibility of a dog, be there to help and maybe even do an extra chore.

If you have younger siblings, offer to babysit them one night so that your parents can have a night out. You could also consider paying a part of the adoption fee as well. To go the extra step and show your parents how much you want this pet, make walking or feeding schedules for the dog. Just remember, you have your entire life ahead of you to adopt a dog, and you don’t want to rush into things. There are other options too, like fostering and spa days, that aren’t as big a commitment. Just keep being responsible, and your parents will be a lot more likely to consider getting you that dog.

Q: My parents have gotten me a summer job because they want me to start saving for college, but I just don’t think that I’m ready. I feel like if I tell them that I don’t want to start this job so early, they will be disappointed that I don’t want the same things as them.

A: I think that it is great that you are able to admit that you don’t feel the same way as your parents, and I think that you don’t need to be rushed into getting a summer job. You need to speak up to your parents if you aren’t comfortable with this new situation. Getting your first job will be scary, and if you don’t think that you are ready for this new experience, then just tell them. It sounds like you care a lot about your future and your parents’ wishes, and I think that they will appreciate your honesty with matters like this. Your relationship with your parents might even strengthen once they know how honest you are. I think it is great how you are considering their feelings as well as your own, and I don’t think that they will be disappointed. Just remember, “honesty is the best policy,” and if you are honest with them, they most likely won’t force you into this.