Although hamsters make wonderful pets, you said you want a *small pet that lives long*. Unfortunately, hamsters don't live too long.

If you want a small pet that lives long and makes a wonderful pet, I would recommend getting a bird. They live very long. A little parakeet can live to be 10-15 years old, and some even make it to their 20s. A cockatiel can easily live to be 20-25 years, and many even live into their 30s or early 40s. I believe lovebirds can live to be 20 or so, and if you want a bigger bird, they can live to be 80 to over 100 years , but then they wouldn't be a small pet and they cost thousands of dollars, so I don't know if you're parents would be willing to get one. I would say go for a cockatiel, or lovebird, or budgie, for a first bird. Of the 3, I recommend getting a cockatiel, mainly because I have 2, and from my experience with them, there couldn't be a better pet. Birds are so acrobatic, clowny, loving, and cuddly, and they can keep you laughing and entertained for hours. They are also very intelligent, and they say cockatiels have the minds of a 2-3 year old child, so they are very intelligent, and bring years of joy. They are also a *small pet* so I think they would fit into what you're looking for.

I don't know how to convince your parents, but I wish you luck in getting another pet. If you decide to get a feathered friend, or other small pet, make sure you have a safe place to house them away from your larger pets, and be sure to do extensive research on the breed you plan on getting before bringing a new animal into your lives!