Well the family seems to have quite a bit of experience so she could go with anything. I don't know why somebody thought of suggesting a chinchilla. Chinchillas in my experience aren't as aloof as people say, but they do need a big, multi-story preferrably, cage and lots of expensive stuff like dust bath. My sister's cage is the size of Autumn's 5 foot by 36" kennel. I'd personally go with the guinea pig. The are big enough to let out of the cage without holding them and are more friendly than gerbils I'd say. Not that you can't cuddle a gerbil, but they are small and quick. I guess it depends on her preference though. Good luck finding a nice pet.