AIBU to consider small pet for DD? Hamster? Gerbil? Guinea Pig? Help and Advice Needed!

[cingolimama]

Hello all you wonderful MN people. I need advice! My DD desperately wants a small pet - well, she really wants a dog, but we can't have one. DD (8) has had some practise taking care of a hamster of a friend at holidays, and has proved herself gentle and very responsible.

I'm not really keen on the idea of an animal in a cage, and really not keen in a smelly one. But on the other hand, it would be lovely for my daughter, so would put up with it.

Not sure which among gerbil, guinea pig, hamster etc. Rats are supposed to be nice pets, but they freak me out a bit (maybe I'd get over this?). Any experiences you'd like to share, I'd be very grateful to hear.

I had lots of female rats (around 20 over the years) and have only once had a tumour and that was on her face. Lots of respiratory issues though. All my rats were from good breeders, but maybe I was just lucky. The short life span is very sad but maybe is appropriate for children who may lose interest. With a snake or something that will live 20 years it can be to much if a commitment.

Degus are lovely and my personal favourite but generally not as quiet and happy to be held/snuggled or as clever/ easily taught commands as rats (i have had both for many years!) so as its for a child, i'd go with rats...

Re the respiratory issues in rats, not sure if this has been mentionned but only bed them on shredded paper or wooden cat litter pellets... Shavings/sawdust makes them wheeze etc.