A bearded dragon. They are great pets. Very social and friendly. Like to be handled on a regular basis.

A gargoyle or crested gecko! We got our DDs a gargoyle gecko after they lost their betta fish. He is more fun and actually easier to take care of- all you NEED to do is feed them once per day, change their water, and clean the tank once per month. As far as lizards go, these two types don't bite, accept being held pretty easily, and aren't too sensitive to changes in temperature (although we keep our house pretty cool so we got ours an infrared lamp.) Crickets aren't a MUST for their diet, but it's kinda fun (in a wild kingdom sort of way) to watch him chase them. It's also kinda cool if you catch them shedding their skin, which happens at night. Best part- no smell and cleaning the tank is as simple as vaccuuming the old substrate and rinsing the accouterments.

A pair of kittens or cats from a shelter or rescue for several reasons:
1. Your daughter will feel glad that she "rescued" animals - believe me, kids feel a lot of achievement.
2. Cats communicate. You daughter will feel attachment.
3. Cats are easier than dogs especially if you have a busy life style. Litter is not difficult at all.
4. Cats have a decent life span, so your daughter will enjoy seeing them grow and thrive.
5. Cats are not expensive.

Recommend cats. I got 2 as family pets when my DD was 4yo. They are fairly low maintenance compared to dogs (I had dogs for about 15 years prior). Plus, I selected a breed (cornish rex) that is very snuggly and gentle. Perfect for my daughter and me too good luck, OP

My two rabbits, and I will pay you. They are 2 and 4 so lovely and sweet but oh so messy is the one! No seriously, be careful about indoor rabbit or anything that need hay!!

We just got my 5-year old a betta fish, and he loves it. We already have 2 dogs, but they are really my dogs, although he plays with them. My son really wanted a pet that was all his own, so he is really excited about the fish.

I am the PP who posted about how much work the mice were. I just lost the last mouse today and had to suppress my tears while my fathers day dinner guests were leaving because I made the discovery tonight (knew it was coming though, didnt help any).

Those rodents are mighty sweet and while I concede they dont interact at dog level your heart doesnt make those distinctions, and neither will your kids.

The two year lifespan of this pet makes it not the best choice. It may seem convenient but the heart tells a different story.