Bubbles, the female King Pigeon, is the emotional support animal for WVU’s social work students.
Bubbles are flying in Schwartz’s apartment. She wears “pigeon pants” from her Instagram account @bevs_bird_boutique. Schwartz has a large selection of Bubbles pants for different types of events, from Valentine’s Day to Pride.
Lifelong birder Taylor Schwartz adopted Bubbles two years ago during the pandemic, out of much research and need for companionship.
When Schwartz first got Bubbles, it took time for the birds to adjust and become comfortable with their owners.
Schwartz poses for a photo with Bubbles, her emotional support pigeon.
you have to be very patient. I think it took her six months to a year before she could really, really hug me. She was completely wild when we got her,” Schwartz said. I was.
Bubbles also took a while to get back to health when she was rescued due to parasites.
Different species of birds have different temperaments and needs, but pigeons have been domesticated for thousands of years. For the most part, pigeons are quiet, low-maintenance birds, which makes them great for emotional support.
“Pigeons are very smart,” Schwartz said. “She teaches me that when I’m sad, I don’t have to cry. She just knows, she comes over and sits next to me. They are excellent animals that provide emotional support.”
Pigeons prefer horizontal surfaces, so cages with Bubbles are good for large dogs. Bubbles are often dressed up in pigeon pants that serve as both fashion and diapers.
Bubbles indulge in activities similar to dogs and cats, such as playing with toys, lounging, and spending time with their owners.
Schwartz and Bubbles sleep together under a blanket. After adopting her bubble, Schwartz enrolled her as her emotional support animal.
“Bubbles, my dove, I feel like a winged cat. She likes to lie in the sunshine and do her own thing,” Schwartz said.
While searching for Bubbles, Schwartz came across a platform called Palomacy, a Facebook group dedicated to pet pigeons, pet pigeon advice and adoption.
“Their information is amazing if you need advice on caring for pigeons…and they are really quick to respond,” Schwartz said.
Having had Bubbles as a pet, Schwartz always recommends pigeons to anyone looking for a pet.
“Whenever I talk to someone and they don’t want a dog or a cat, but they want a loving pet, I always recommend pigeons,” Schwartz said. .
Follow @bubblebathbirb on Instagram for the latest from Schwartz and Bubbles.
Bubbles spawn in the sun.
