Meet Jennifer Pickett-Dozier, a longtime Ridgefield resident who shares her home with four-year-old Shih Tzu Molly and one-year-old Green-Cheeked Conure Baby Bird. Their lively personalities fill her days with fun, companionship, and plenty of laughter.

Molly’s favorite toy is a little tennis ball, and she sometimes even falls asleep with one in her mouth. The thrill of chasing a ball motivates her more than treats.

A social butterfly, Molly always wants to know who is outside. If she could, she would spend all day outdoors greeting everyone who passes by. Jennifer says, “I talk to Molly all day long. She’s my best friend.” Molly also enjoys curling up on Jennifer’s bed and joining her on car rides, errands, and walks through Abrams Park.

One of Molly’s favorite activities is spending time with Baby Bird, who often lands on her and lets her gently preen his tail feathers. Molly enjoys it when her feathered friend is out of his cage and will patiently wait nearby for him to come out and play.

Baby Bird has plenty of personality of his own. He likes to clean Jennifer’s eyelashes, perch on her glasses, and snuggle under her chin. Once, he even took a bath in a bowl of lettuce. He loves splashing in water whenever the sink is running. Fun fact: the back of a bird’s head and neck are the only places where petting is generally recommended.

Each morning, Baby Bird announces the start of the day with enthusiastic squawks at sunrise. He enjoys corn on the cob, pine nuts, swinging on his basket perch, watching hummingbirds outside, hiding in hair, and chewing on jewelry. Jennifer especially loves watching him dance to “The Soda Pop” song. A true social butterfly, he seems to love everyone he meets.

When asked for a favorite memory, Jennifer simply says, “We make memories every day,” reflecting the joy and companionship Molly and Baby Bird bring to her life. Their story is a reminder of the laughter, friendship, and love pets bring to the people who share their lives.