don't know why some of you have problems with the concept. tarantulas are practically the ideal pet -- they don't howl, chase cars, or shed on the furniture (well, as long as you don't annoy them).
i've had half a dozen or so tarantulas over the years, all (obviously) named "Cupcake."
most have been wild caught -- the smallish browns around here (LA), down in San Diego, or NM. most of those unfortunately have been males out for a last fling; they only lived about a year. females lived much longer.
i've also had a store-bought pink toe (which did not do well) and a Chilean Rose, which did very well and was a lot of fun. tolerated handling by the kids pretty well, stayed healthy, and lived a long time (tho obviously not decades). I agree with the recommendation of a young female Chilean Rose, altho i personally haven't a clue how one sexes an immature tarantula.
As suggested above, one of those stick-on under-tank heaters is pretty much mandatory for non-natives.
incidentally, Guppygirl, our local (CA) browns can jump; i had one that was maybe 3.5" across take down a 4+" grasshopper in mid-hop
