Home is where the hen is

Chickens are an "absolute necessity in anyone's life," says Cara Wheeldon It's no yolk! from healing properties to happiness, here's why poultry make the best pets

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"The fact that chickens have lived with humans for centuries is a testament to how useful they are," says poultry enthusiast and owner Cat Thomson, and she isn't alone in this regard. For some of the 57% of UK petowning households, the role of a feathered companion is one just as highly respected and loved as that of the dog. But why?

Though overlooked by many, these feathered friends provide a lot more than a simple meal for dinner or a boundless supply of fresh, tasty eggs. Chickens never fail to deliver endless joy, giggles, and great companionship from the safety of your backyard. So here are the top five reasons why chickens really do make the best pets, and why you should invest in one... or thirty this year.

GREAT FOR MENTAL HEALTH

Animals are great for aiding mental health, and chickens are no exception. Rachael Bradley, a retired clinical psychologist from Edern in Wales, has a lot to say about the subject. “I think chickens are great for mental health because they help people with stress and anxiety.” These feathered beings have the ability to provide a sanctuary from the worries of everyday life from the comfort of your home.

Rachael, who has worked with adults with learning disabilities for over 20 years, says how chickens improve mental and cognitive health for less verbal individuals. “Chickens are great for improving verbal communication, because it is a very low-demand situation.” She says, adding that the stress of verbal communication can be daunting, so having the companionship of a feathered pet can prove calming for communication, but also anxiety and depression as well.