Children are expensive!

I don't have children in the traditional sense. But I do have children. I have a daughter named Lucy, a black and white, lab/collie mix. I also have a son named Bernie Puff, a four legged, scaly bearded dragon. I have had Lucy for almost a year, and I have had Bernie Puff just over a week. He was my Christmas present to myself because I had an empty tank and didn't want fish. Anyway, as I researched bearded dragons, after I bought him, I never realized how much goes into their care. I was told they were so easy and cheap, a 10 year old could take care of them. What I failed to realize, was how expensive he would be. I have been underfeeding him, so I went to a supplier online, and though cheaper in essence, I still had to pay for shipping. I also had to buy special vitamins for him because he needs lots of vitamins, including calcium. Now I have a question for you, dear readers. If I am willing to shell out money for a dog and a bearded dragon, without complaining, then why on earth are there parents out there that act like they are giving their kids the world when they ask for a toy? I love my animals if they were my children. I will never get to have children of my own, so they are the closest thing I will ever have. I will do anything to keep them healthy and happy. Why then, do some parents of actual humans, refuse to do this?