You might consider the Browning X-Bolt Hunter Micro Midas. It has a 20" barrel which is about ideal IMO. Short enough to be maneuverable, but any shorter and muzzle blast gets obnoxiously loud. Browning's bolt knob is a little different from most.
Ruger has a compact 7mm-08 Hawkeye, but the barrel is 16.5" - a deal breaker for me and frankly, quite possibly flinch inducing for a young hunter even if the recoil itself isn't bad. In the used department, a Remington Model 7 might be an option if you can find one in acceptable condition/price.
Link to Browning X-Bolt Hunter Micro Midas 7mm-08 20" NIB - Gunbroker.com
Not suggesting you buy from gunbroker, but it's not a bad place to see what is available out there.
As for not seeing anything locally. I've been willing to drive some distance after calling around to see if a gun I want is in stock at surrounding gunshops. Other option is to have your local shop order one which may or may not mean paying full MSRP depending on the shop.