Dear Matt,

I'm a volunteer at our local animal rescue center. Recently, I've been wanting to adopt a dog that I really like, but my parents won't allow me to. They think keeping a pet is a waste of time. How can I make my parents agree with me?

Kate

Dear Kate,

It's great that you're volunteering at an animal rescue center! You're already showing your love and responsibility for animals. However, I can understand why your parents don't agree to bring a dog into their home. I'm sure they've already told you that caring for a pet is a huge responsibility.

One of your first jobs as a new dog owner would be to potty train it. It will take time and patience to teach your dog to do its business outside. You can research this topic and prepare a plan to show to your parents that you've given it a lot of thought and are ready.

You're a student, which means that you're going to be in school most of the time. Who will take care of your dog then? Will your parents have to take on that responsibility? What's more.

________________? It will need dog food, toys — and most expensive of all -- visits to the hospital for checkups and medicine. For example, my mom's dog has seizures so he needs to take medicine and eat a special type of food. Neither of these is cheap.

Most dogs need to be walked frequently. This is very time-consuming, but you must do it for your dog's physical and mental health. Another thing to think about: Dogs love to bite things.

My mom's dog will gladly make a meal out of any books, paper or even wooden furniture in the house.

As long as you understand the never-ending responsibilities of being a dog owner and communicate this with your parents, you might have a chance! Good luck.

Matt