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Chicken Offers Comfort: Therapy Bird Joins Owner
25 Feb
Summary
- A psychology professor uses a chicken named Saturday for emotional support.
- The chicken, named Saturday, provides comfort and understands emotions.
- Research is underway on pets' influence on adolescent development.

Sonia Kong, a psychology professor at the University of Northern British Columbia, has integrated her research on animal companionship into her personal life with an emotional support chicken named Saturday. Adopted recently from a farm near Prince George, the 11-month-old bird has become a significant source of comfort for Kong.
Kong describes Saturday as intelligent and perceptive, capable of sensing her emotions. The chicken's presence has proven therapeutic, offering solace during sad moments. To ensure Saturday can be by her side, Kong even fashioned a special diaper, allowing the bird to travel with her.
Professor Kong is currently conducting a study on the influence of pets on adolescent social and emotional development. This international online survey aims to identify potential cultural differences in how spending time with pets affects teenagers from various backgrounds.
While her parents humorously question her choice, comparing Saturday to a potential meal, Kong emphasizes that the bird is a beloved pet. This highlights differing cultural perspectives on the value and role of animals, with Kong finding deep personal and scientific value in her unique bond.




