I used to raise Dutch rabbits for show (I wondered if the Dutch in you name was referring to bunnies) Between the ages of 13 and about 20 we had a lot of rabbits and we went a lot of places to show them. We even flew to Arizona (we live in PA) with the bunnies. Of course this was quite a few years ago. Hopefully you will be able to get a pet, even a small one, like a hamster or maouse. Maybe your mom will change her mind. It is important for people young and old to have animal companions.