OMG i can't belive what a coincidence this is, i found PT while looking for information about getting 2nd dogs- everything about your first message matched my situation. I've been trying for over a year, just keep trying and your parents might see how dedicated you are to it.

Hopefully your parents aren't as stubborn as mine. My mom keeps saying
" What's wrong with HER!? " and " Why isn't she good enough for you anymore?! "

Good Luck!