So, I can get the Pikachu to appear, except when doing the A Select A presses, on the select it just negates the A press entirely and I have to press A a second time, which instead growls me or doesn't critical. Any help?

If you hold A during the Spearow cry, then select -> A nearly instantly after the click is how you can get it. But if you can't get it there's a chance you got IGT'd

Alright, I'll try that once I get home. Thank you for the answer once again, I really appreciate it!

Not a problem