By Josie October 24th, 2023
C-Jay Martin, a 25-year-old Maine resident born without eyes, recently emerged victorious in a legal twist that allowed him to keep his emotional support chickens.
Emotional support pets are animals that provide comfort, companionship, and relief to individuals suffering from mental or emotional conditions.
Unlike service animals trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities, emotional support pets do not require specialized training.
They are recognized for their ability to alleviate symptoms of conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Despite the evident benefits, a city ordinance in Bangor, Maine, prohibited the keeping of fowl, presenting a legal hurdle for the Martins.
The board voted unanimously in favor of the Martins, a victory not just for the family but for the broader conversation around mental health and disability rights
Chickens, often underestimated, have proven to be excellent emotional support pets. They are social, friendly, and low maintenance.
C-Jay's mother observed a significant improvement in C-Jay’s mood when he interacted with the chickens, showcasing their effectiveness as therapy pets.