"Strange Addictions" That Shock Doctors

Sponsor removed to investigate claims made further.
TLC's My Strange Addiction is a complicated show. While I don't like the title or some of the campy ways they portray serious conditions people are dealing with, I do think we can use this as an opportunity to educate about the struggles of real life people, as well as develop empathy for people dealing with addictions we might not quite understand at first. Specifically we look at a girl addicted to collecting cockroaches, twins addicted to being as similar to each other as possible, a woman addicted to neck rings, another woman addicted to tanning booths, a college student addicted to loving inflatable animals, and a man addicted to plastic surgery and trying to look like a real life Ken Doll. Let me know down below if there are more clips you want me to look into!
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Executive Producer: Doctor Mike
Production Director and Editor: Dan Owens
Managing Editor and Producer: Sam Bowers
Editor and Designer: Caroline Weigum
Editor: Juan Carlos Zuniga
* Select photos/videos provided by Getty Images *
** The information in this video is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in this video is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/health professional **

[@jmoe5090]

Watching this guy kiss his inflatable while doctor mike doesn’t even crack a smirk, really shows what type of person he is and how much he’s invested in the patient. I love watching this guy.

[@nikkicz8924]

I totally agree, Dr. Mike is amazing. I truly wish every single medical professional, no matter what their title is, was as kindhearted and down to earth as Dr. Mike is.

[@user-oo1fk3nv8z]

Way better of a person than me

[@TheSwauzz]

Or that he knows he's being recorded?

[@Yana-pw1sd]

@@TheSwauzz has that ever stopped someone from saying something terrible Btw thanks for the likes I know it’s not a lot but it’s the most likes I’ve gotten

[@wahoo.]

@@Yana-pw1sd yes it has. this isnt live, he probably smirked once, hell maybe he laughed, but he can tell his editor to cut that part out.

[@taylorfrink1182]

as an autistic person i very much agree about animal therapy, i always had a dog growing up and did horseback riding at a barn well versed in therapeutic riding even though i was undiagnosed at the time. working with horses i think really actually helped my social skills in a way

[@alexpan1812]

I was just about to comment the same thing! My dog helps me so much when I'm overwhelmed or just need a hug and it helps me so much. Anytime I can't find something to talk about I always revert to random fun animal facts and that kinda helps me keep talking to people lol

[@ranjanbiswas3233]

I'm thankful to the fact that it helped you.

[@dakotahstacy4013]

I love dogs and cats, but horses are my favorite animals In the world. And they are great for therapy.

[@melissaharris3890]

"animals are non-judgmental" have you met my cat

[@rainestormee]

I’m also autistic and I agree

[@javiermaldonado7120]

“Animals are not judgmental” Cats “am I a joke to you”

[@freshyeetedtrash4386]

Dude i was so surprised that horses are used for therapy too cause they are some of most judgmental animals, like they'll do most things but always for a price

[@margitsample8302]

I love how Dr. mike shows no judgment. No laughing or mocking. He is a true medical professional. Good for him.

[@blackharmonics4518]

Yeah, I highly respect that. I couldn't do that. I found some of these really weird, but tried my best to watch this video with respect and curiosity for all the different things.

[@brandonpease5586]

Dr. Mike has to be the only person reacting to my strange addiction to listen to someone before talking. We need more listeners in the world, thank you Dr. Mike!

[@ludicrous7044]

Sorry-I wasn't listening!! Seriously there are some good additions and you have one. Your friends should love it!

[@rachelotremba8100]

0:30 this part made me emotional. I am 21 years old and I just got diagnosed with Autism 2 months ago. I've been debating looking into Equine Therapy because horses have always intrigued me. And to hear him talk about how animals are not judgemental and you can just love them and enjoy their company... I dont know it made me tear up. Thank you Dr. Mike.

[@textme7951]

Thanks for watching send ⤴️a direct message right away i will love to hear your thoughts on it and for more enlightment ❤️✍️,,*

[@sleepyote]

I'm autistic too, and had equine therapy. It really improved my life, I recommend it.

[@NicholasWiewiora]

I'm not diagnosed, but really think I have it, and I think that's why I always gravitate toward animals (and miss my kitties so much :(...). I'd always come home feeling like an alien and unwanted, but my besties would always be there, waiting to hang out with me. At any family gathering, I'm always searching for their pets to hang with.

[@Yana-pw1sd]

I ride horses and even just riding has helped me so much

[@bladeofbattousai]

I just ride horses and they can be so sweet. You can cry into their manes and they never tell your secrets.

[@austa10]

His reaction to the woman that tans a lot actually feels wholesome. He is so concerned for her health because of the great dangers about tanning. Dr Mike is an amazing Doctor.

[@reiphas]

The girl with roaches I can actually relate to lol. I keep a colony of isopods and I love them. And while wild-caught roaches could definitely spread diseases, she probably had so many generations of them at this point that they should be mostly diseaseless. People keep roaches in containers the way she does as food for other invertebrates or reptiles, so I'm fairly confident she's doing a good job as a keeper.

[@meghanh1614]

I love how respectful you are to people’s “strange addictions “

[@poggus6414]

Noticed you didn't have any replies. Here to change that king

[@xXNunduXx]

Another W for Doctor Mike

[@pinkfeet518]

one of my favorite things about Dr. Mike is his empathy towards others

[@Kyxul]

definitely are strange addictions lmfao

[@f1lip797]

he has to be so the "snowflakes" dont "cancel" him

[@L0st.s0ul.eat3r]

I have autism and depression, one day I found a stray dog on the road who looked malnourished and scared so I lured it into my car and took it to the vet. That dog is named Mimi and has been a part of my life for 2 years now. Every day just seeing her be happy to see me makes me feel like I accomplished something and actually made me more comfortable around others

[@textme7951]

Thanks for watching send ⤴️a direct message right away i will love to hear your thoughts on it and for more enlightment ❤️✍️,,*

[@NicholasWiewiora]

I'm glad Mimi has someone who cares so much and takes care of them. :)

[@im.braylen]

This some john wayne gacy shi

[@s4ra.123]

How old are you? Because you have a car but you do gacha…

[@catboyrights]

@@s4ra.123 How are those two things conflicting? No animosity by the way, just speaking plainly. I'm an adult with a car who plays Gacha Life too. I have autism as well. Having "childish" interests is common for (but not exclusive to) people with autism. Whether or not that has anything to do with it in this case, it's not weird to do gacha and have a car.

[@MidnightHedgehog365]

Good on roach girl! She's caring for the roaches really well. Owning roaches is not uncommon especially in the reptile community and that's exactly how you keep them in egg cartons in a tub or tank especially if you're wanting to breed them. She can totally make a living off of breeding and selling those roaches. Wonder if we have a future entomologist on our hands. I know the parents are uncomfortable with it but I'm happy they're nurturing her curiosity! She'll do good things with it in the future :)

[@thedivalovesglitterandglam9428]

My high school physics teacher had an aquarium full of Madagascar hissing cockroaches. I almost didn't pass the class out of sheer discomfort because of my proximity to their tank, so I can understand why finding out that they existed kept Dr. Mike up all night long.

[@alicepbg2042]

like... in -his- their classroom? during classes? I would just not go.

[@kristopherwilson506]

@@alicepbg2042it could be a woman

[@alicepbg2042]

@@kristopherwilson506 true. either way I'm not going in their class to ask them

[@sebastiaanstok]

@@kristopherwilson506 I thought it was a pun joke, about the hissing :)

[@thedivalovesglitterandglam9428]

Yes, in the classroom. Like as pets. It was awful. I'd ask to go to the bathroom whenever she fed them because the thought of one of them getting out was too much for me to handle.

[@Takillama]

My aunt was addicted to tanning when she was younger. I remember people asking me why my aunt was black and the rest of my family was white, but as a little kid I had no idea what they were talking about. (Note: In my 10+ yrs of living there, there was one African American girl who went to my middle school for a total of 6 weeks, and no others in the town or surrounding towns until I was well into my 20's, so I'm not really sure any of the kids even knew what any color of skin other than white looked like irl. This was before internet existed even for schools.) When I was in my early teens she'd gotten to the point her skin was starting to look leathery, she was maybe mid 30's by then. I didn't see her for a long time after that, things happened in life and I only saw her again after I was about mid 20's. I hardly recognized her. She'd obviously at least slowed down on the tanning, she was much paler and looked healthier, but her skin still looked off. About 8 yrs ago my mother told me she'd 'had an accident' and had to get skin grafts and then after that got skin cancer, so she stopped tanning all together. She now lives in Alaska, last I heard. Best place in the US to hide from the sun I suppose.

[@maddykrantz]

WOW. I hope you arent into that stuff.

[@Takillama]

@@maddykrantz Heck no! When I was a kid I never burned, always tanned, but now I'm more careful.

[@saschamayer4050]

😱😰😱

[@aerydar]

we still get a lot of sun in Alaska heh

[@Saxinful]

Skin graphs haha

[@FaithMoulder]

i love how dr mike never judges anyone or even silently laughs at them that shows how good of a person he is

[@bumperbaby1]

The empathy and professionalism you show is amazing. The healthcare industry needs more people like you. Thank you for being a great example.

[@jessie-nx9ls]

Being non-judgemental is one of the best things you can be as a doctor. I'm glad he is completely respectful and understanding. Thanks Dr. Mike!!

[@southcoastinventors6583]

I mean everyone is judgemental but he has the sense enough to not verbalize them since it would damage his brand.

[@luckygusher6355]

Exactly that true about that brand damage

[@southcoastinventors6583]

@@luckygusher6355 For sure we can't read minds best we can do is look at the body language and interpret what it could mean.

[@nealp.2841]

Unfortunately so rare... would be the best doctor you could have!

[@bradentheman1373]

i think if your a doctor and your judgmental it could either be bad or you could put someone’s life in danger or very big danger

[@khalilahd.]

I love that he’s always so understanding and empathetic instead of judgmental. Not just a good doctor but a good person as well ❤

[@inmysightpewpew893]

i see you everywhere

[@NemesisFromResidentEvil]

@@inmysightpewpew893 It's a comment bot

[@Ihavealotofmalefriends]

@@NemesisFromResidentEvil not true, she’s a real person, if you look at the profile you’ll see that, I just assume she posts a lot of comments

[@NemesisFromResidentEvil]

@@Ihavealotofmalefriends They use bots to promote a terrible channel

[@itsytyt5192]

AF

[@user-sf6ld4qp5g]

Whenever I watch people react to these Strange Addictions they are so judgemental and talk about the people like they're crazy. But you are so respectful, u let the talk and explain before you react and your words are so gentle and kind! You're amazing! Thank u so much!

[@scootingscout]

Watching DR. Mike argue with videos is my new favorite passing time ❤️😂 truly a genuine caring DR for patients couldn’t have asked anyone better to join medical care xx

[@truebornseeker9767]

I think the reason autism is commonly linked to objectaphilia is because a lot of us personify objects, and it’s much easier to feel romantic or sexual attraction to an object when you’ve personified it in your mind

[@mj-hu7nt]

this makes complete sense. i have an autistic preschooler who swears up and down his shoes are "bad" and needs to take them off. obviously shoes aren't inherently good or bad, but for him they have human qualities. wouldn't be surprised if it goes the other way around.

[@UnscrupulousAgitator]

I was a startled that he was sexually attracted to his inflatable pool toys. I've heard of being attracted to objects, but it still confused me. Knowledge is a powerful tool to dismantle ignorance. I was ignorant of those facts. Thanks for the explanation. 🙂

[@20thcenturyrelic]

@@UnscrupulousAgitator I do find this odd, but, he's not hurting anybody, so I need to be tolerant.

[@kfdaftsaeroblox]

Also helps them to calm down. I have Asperger's and I keep handies in my pockets, and the feeling of not being empty-pocketed helps me to focus a lot better.

[@oceaneo4603]

Yup ! Physical touch could be challenging. And a lot of people on the spectrum have an incredible intern world.

[@casperh5452]

23 yo fentanyl addict in recovery here, 7 years of use and just shy of 11 months of sobriety. I love watching these videos because as bizarre as they seem my substance use and a process addiction scratches the same itch. We crave control over things we dont have and end up using drugs/processes to numb or not think about it. Love this channel

[@xbeluu95]

Hi! Just wanted to say it must be so difficult, but you're doing great. I really hope you stay well 💜

[@casperh5452]

@@xbeluu95 thanks I'm doing way better every day

[@lisafitzgibbon8434]

Well done Caspar, you are doing amazing.

[@FlagCutie]

Just wanted to congratulate you on your 11 months!!! Here's to the milestone year, then many years after that!

[@kiarasimone123]

Props to you!!! Im 68 days sober and in a program❤ we do recover🫶🏽

[@Alytra]

I love how patient he is and how there is zero judgment when he's explaining this stuff. Truly amazing

[@AndI-ji4eo]

Super responsible and professional coverage. I appreciate the maturity shown during the video! ❤

[@Dginny865]

2:53 “we’re addicted to being identical” …. Well you’re clearly wearing different shirts so I’m calling bullshit on that one…

[@matthewboire6843]

Yea, FAKE

[@sydneymarshall3204]

I was diagnosed with autism a couple years ago (officially - had the symptoms my whole life but one of my parents didn’t want to believe it) and I can understand having things that make you feel calmer like textures, smells, and having an animal that relies on me has helped me a lot.

[@Echo_the_half_glitch]

I understand that completely, I have it to, and it took a long time to get me diagnosed, my cat loves hugs so he helps as well, also my dog

[@luco663]

Yea I have it too, and I heavily rely on my pet for emotional reassurance. Petting her calms me alot. She's my best friend haha. So I can understand needing something to rely on that calms u.

[@diggydog6820]

Im autistic and im always with things idk y and i was diagnosed when i was born

[@charlie_says3841]

There's absolutely nothing shameful about autism. I applaud you for writing this comment, you sound like an intelligent and insightful person. I've studied autism spectrum disorder, and there's definitely a connection between autism and feeling comfort from things like different textures, colours. Animal therapy is a brilliant idea, and our beloved furry friends can really help ease anxiety and help when you feel a panic looming. I hope you're getting the support from your parents now; I'm proud of you xx

[@woutermeijer2374]

@@charlie_says3841 everyone is in one way or another autistic. By some people you can notice it good while others have it with minor things that aren't that noticible.

[@becsaw5268]

My husband's hometown/village had a pair of sisters who were so addicted to being in each other's company, that even after they married, their husband's left their villages and moved to the wives hometown. They all lived in the same area had kids etc etc. But earlier this year one sister was ill and died unexpectedly. As such, their dad actually warned the husband of the surviving sister to be careful, he said something along the lines of " this lady is going to kill herself, she can't live without her sister". They were all careful monitoring the surviving sister movement's that night. Eventually, they all went to bed at the late sisters home, as is custom there. The wake can lasts up to two week or so and families stay over to support each other, morn, cook, look after the kid's etc. However. Early in the morning she woke suddenly and took off. Running away from the house towards the main road. She caught everyone off guard. They heard the door slam and she was gone. As people realized what happened they gave chase, she was so quick (they said) and so determined she ran to a bridge and jumped off. She left behind her husband, her motherless children, nieces and nephews, and a dad who lost two daughters in less than 24 hours. That addiction the identical twins has is for real and scares me. Some people blamed the husband for what happened, but I feel she would have found away eventually. Quite tragic and a first in their community.

[@DAWGYRS]

7:02 Cancer speedrun?????

[@ImperialAgent]

I was diagnosed with autism last year when I was 30. I am in DBT. My beagles are a game changer for me and has actually helped with my mental health as they don’t judge like humans do.

[@m.nic.5080]

Interesting as I’ve had the complete opposite experience. I am autistic and my whole childhood I was repeatedly attacked by the family beagle needing stitches on over 6 occasions, she would stalk me purposely and not let go from an attack until someone put a spoon in her mouth to pry her off. I was told that me being autistic was triggering and traumatizing to the dog and that the “unstable energy” of an autistic person makes dogs feel unsafe. I was also attacked by the neighbor’s Spaniel, it ripped through the screen door and ran across a street to attack me and the bite to my face was millimeters away from losing my right eye. It’s led to me having a lifelong fear of dogs and all animals because in my experience they clearly DO judge and fear/hate my autism.

[@alvaronavarro4895]

@@m.nic.5080 that "unstable energy" thing is bullshit. If anything she was an overly aggressive dog that though you were competing with her for attention or something.

[@minetruly]

@@m.nic.5080 what tf kind of family keeps a dog after it's attacked one of their children.

[@m.nic.5080]

It was “part of the family” I guess. That and they claimed I was the one provoking it by being alive, so it “wasn’t technically aggressive and was only acting in understandable self defense” and it was natural for it to happen to me.

[@gnardrop1006]

@@m.nic.5080stitches on over 6 occasions? Sorry but that story made me laugh. Approaching sitcom material.

[@deeznutzzzzzzzz]

absolutely love how respectful Dr. Mike is ❤️

[@emankhan2140]

He's everything a doctor should be 💙

[@potatopeeps7627]

YOUR PFP AND USERNAME LMAO❤❤

[@Idontknowlolk]

@@potatopeeps7627 priceless 🤣🤣

[@arielsea9087]

He laughed at the twin addiction

[@dawnsweeting9500]

Real

[@ReddAnnda]

That boy with the inflatables absolutely broke my heart. Hearing about how his mother wouldn’t show him love just destroyed me. I’m going to go cuddle with my son ❤

[@denisesavage2382]

Love how you held each one with a sense of humanity and respect for them. Some of them leave me wondering . . . . I wish all medicos had this kind of heart.

[@itzzravenn4522]

Roaches are fine living in plastic boxes. Most reptile keepers keep roaches in there, and she's definitely on top of taking care of them. The roaches she has, aren't your average household roaches. They were most likely captive bred, meaning disease spreading is less common.

[@SilverstreamPJ28]

Wouldn't it be better to have less roaches and have an enclosure simulate some kind of forest environment? It's a genuine question, I don't know how care for insects works.

[@steamvyrus6249]

@@SilverstreamPJ28 they can benefit from sterile wood for hiding, substrate like coconut fibre substrate but they won't generally suffer without a forest recreation. Overcrowding is a bit concerning though

[@rexana_rexana]

For the roach girl: I will defend her. She seems to actually take really good care of them. A lot of people keep roaches, usually if they have a reptile or other pet that eats insects, but also there's people, like that girl, who keep them as pets. From the video, she seems to do everything right, keeps the tanks clean, gives them plenty of food, is well educated, etc. And yes they're very happy as is in their plastic boxes. Roaches aren't the pickiest when it comes to living spaces 😆. Overall, thumbs up to roach girl, good on her!

[@tristanpesic4436]

good for her but im here in the comments because i cant stand them

[@sw33t_d3v1l]

Good 4 her but I’m probably gonna die abt the hissing

[@masaki.3422]

i dont like roaches but good for her ig

[@Jnssing]

Also just so people know... The specific types bred for food for reptiles/fish/etc are tropical and cannot breed if they escape in most climates. They have heated tubs. They're pretty easy to contain and unproblematic.

[@willbe3043]

Yeah the tanks look really clean

[@UsagiOhkami]

Every reaction gives me hope. His complete lack of judgement is so wonderful.

[@h0ted503]

Great review! As a physical therapist I would say you forgot about the risk of thoracic outlet syndrome in the case of the neck thing. Because pushing the clavicule down to the 1st rib creates a compression on the brachial plexus, subclavian artery and subclavian vein. I'm amazed how people can be so careless about their health!

[@Violetrn76]

Tanning girl: I get it! I used to tan, and the warm ‘sun’ was almost like light therapy of sorts. I loved it. Until one of my patients daughters came in with a 3 corner flap repair of skin cancer on her face! I was 20 or so. I stopped immediately. Later I became a nurse, and now I REALLY regret tanning, after seeing all the skin cancer I’ve seen!!!

[@Kat-qr7hv]

I have arthritis and I would LOVE to lay in a nice warm tanning bed but I am absolutely terrified of skin cancer

[@Rynjinivar]

@@Kat-qr7hv You might wanna look into something like an infrared sauna instead.

[@nikogildon117]

How much sunlight is too much sunlight? Especially in a Texas summer, the sun is different but I've always been active and a nature enthusiast and also work outside.

[@PenRoseMaltby_stream1D]

@@nikogildon117 that is also my question

[@levi_octavian]

I can somewhat relate to the first guy to some extent. I had an abusive and unstable mother who isolated me from others as a child and my stuffed animals brought me a lot of comfort and happiness in those tough times. Once she lost custody of me I slowly grew out of my obsessive attachment after making friends and being in a supportive environment. Although I’m 21 now I still have a couple I keep around and collect. When things are tough inanimate items help ground a person sometimes if it’s all they have. I truly emphasize and feel bad for him. I’m happy he’s getting help. I have ASD too so that definitely did have an affect on how I viewed my animals.

[@littleblackcar]

Yeah, my siblings and I have a hard time getting rid of stuff and I've started to think it's because we moved around a lot when we were kids and the stuff was both our friends and our home (more than the houses were, since those changed a lot). It's not cool stuff or anything--there's no status attached to it.

[@lostcitieseditz4044]

R u ok now? And what's ASD?

[@levi_octavian]

@@lostcitieseditz4044 I’m okay now then you got the concern! ASD Happens to be short for autism spectrum disorder.

[@_v0xt3k.]

@@lostcitieseditz4044 Hello, I have ASD aka Autism Spectrum Disorder, it's a wide range of different disorders classified as Autism, thus Autism Spectrum Disorder! I specifically have Autism Type 1/One, formerly known as Asperger's Syndrome. For the first question, I can't answer it as I am not the individual. I hope you have a great day!

[@lostcitieseditz4044]

@@_v0xt3k. oh! I didn't know that was short for autism. My bad

[@ForeverChanged7]

Dr. Mike, You're one in a million Dr. Mike. We are sooo privileged to be a part of ppl"s lives. Too many physicians are not in it for the right reasons but clearly, Dr. Mike, you are. Greatful to have you in this wacky world we live in. Thank you!❤

[@randystache78]

This the video I started respecting you a ton! Looking at these addictions with empathy, instead of going for the quick laugh. Excellent video.

[@jennatalks3399]

I LOVE that you acknowledged how NORMAL it is for people to NOT want to be in a long-term relationship. Not everyone has the same wants in life. Great job, there!

[@soniczforever5470]

I developed a illness that made me asexual

[@Jerepasaurus]

Proper respect for Aces (Asexuals) and others! :D

[@ESCL2004]

​@@JerepasaurusSome asexuals can still be in long-term romantic relationships! Aromantics would fit the bill better here.

[@timohara7717]

​@@Jerepasaurusmost children seem to be ace until puberty

[@chrissyj_]

@@timohara7717 w h a t

[@Chaotic_Pixie]

My concern with the twins is if one needs to be hospitalized. They can’t guarantee one won’t get sick with day, pneumonia or one might need a joint replacement before the other. I think the friend has a valid concern.

[@pinkdruid2347]

It’s so interesting you mention animals and autism. I myself am high functioning ASD. And I’m writing a book rn where one of the characters also is, but he tends to be a lot more quiet and reserved than I am. And I gave him a pet rabbit who he treats like a best friend. And he basically gives that exact explanation in one scene is “Animals don’t judge”. Glad I’m writing the character accurately 😊💕

[@SLIVER-MACE]

As the wolf exits its den, something stays behind it may never notice again

[@tomatosoup943]

Good luck with your book! I’m sure it’ll be great! it’s my dream to write one someday 😊

[@farinshore8900]

Thank you for this video. It is honestly the most intelligent educational piece i've ever seen about a problem that is so profoundly misunderstood.

[@laurad5806]

So interesting to hear Dr. Mike talk about what questions he would be asking. As a mental health professional I was thinking along similar lines and it’s so cool that he would be exploring some of that in a Dr’s visit. In England the GPs don’t have that kind of time or specialism to begin unpicking the extent of the addiction- they very much have 8 minutes and then try to refer them somewhere appropriate. Mental health training for drs here is still quite behind so I love his non-judgemental approach

[@lunawolfheart336]

I had a Dr who did this as well. She's was amazing but sadly she only works with minors. Tho my Dr I have now is really good to.

[@aking9077]

The lady with neck rings is comparing herself to a woman in a tribe who starts "stretching their necks" from like age 3..they literally do it all their life

[@roselover411]

Exactly what I was thinking! When you start really young, your body can adapt into the shape you're molding it into. If she started this as an adult, she's never going to reach that point.

[@MamadNobari]

I mean what else she gonna do, wait so she can do it after the next reincarnation?

[@storyranger]

Like, the rings deform the collarbones and upper ribs to create the illusion of a longer neck, and surprise! Deforming your bones gradually when you're a kid is much less painful then trying to do it as an adult. The tribes where they wear neck rings starting as an adult are completely for the illusion and are not used to deform bones. (Also it feels icky and appropriate for a North American person to be doing this but I am not qualified to pass judgement on that.)

[@nuhaomar9542]

They had her in darkness because there are no bruises bc she’s lying 😂

[@blackharmonics4518]

I know, I'm late, but.. These women in the tribe can't ever live without these rings, since they wear them their whole life basically. They don't have the same muscles, because the rings prevent them from developing. They can't wash their skin under them, which probably causes some serious skin diseases (fungi, mold, bad bacteria, etc.), plus the rings can cause bruises and stuff. Would they ever take off these rings, their necks would break since they can't hold the weight of the head without them after wearing them for so long.

[@infppp9179]

And I am addicted to watching this guy late at night, it's so fun and interesting, and from his reactions, he seems like a good person with a good heart.

[@opeeate]

I know a doctor who needs to talk to you and see how gentle, concerned and non judging you are. if only more doctors were like you your patients are very lucky.

[@a_mox]

Am I the only one who doesn't get tired of watching doc. Mike's videos?

[@guy-]

Nope, not just you

[@beehivelax]

Same bruh

[@maanasayenamandra8895]

same dude

[@Grintock]

I mean you're in the comment section under a Dr Mike Video. Most people who are here will agree with you, because those who got tired will have left

[@khalilahd.]

Nope. Same here ❤

[@LynetteTheRogue]

"Maybe they don't want to be in a relationship" Dr. Mike for the win with radical acceptance ❤️

[@Evaille]

Videos like this have allowed me to approach clients (in veterinary medicine) with clinical distance, while also maintaining a reasonable level of empathy. Everyone walks different paths.

[@josheliwa2381]

11:18 bro really got that light skin stare 💀

[@gpgara]

Hi, Dr. Mike, I'm your colleague, a general physician from Colombia. About the last patient - the guy who wants to look like a doll - I agree with you completely. Also, I highly question the ethics of the medical professionals who as plastic surgeons, accepted to perform this many procedures on him without realizing there is a clear need for a psychiatric evaluation first. Without attempting to make a diagnosis myself, which would also be unethical, I am sad for this young man, because any procedure has risks and his doctors neglected to err on the side of the clear benefit of first exploring a mental-health diagnosis in their surgical risk-benefit analysis. P.S. I do realize of course, that the patient could be surgeon-hopping, and so have multiple different surgeons in multiple different parts of the country, even, and in this case, I don't know that they would all have his complete clinical history aside from what the patient tells them. This would make knowing the complete truth much harder and so much harder to see the need for a psych eval.

[@randominternetguy3537]

The guy went doctor shopping. When one doctor refuses to continue the plastic surgeries, he goes and finds another. And another and another and you get the point. In another clip in the documentary, he explicitly mentioned the doctor shopping. Idk if he mentioned how many doctors tho.

[@alchemicmercury]

I have seen the doll guy on several different programs. He has his own business making cosmetic inserts to make you look muscular w/o all the strength that comes from excercise.

[@randominternetguy3537]

@The Divine Siphonophore who needs strength. Muscles are nowhere near as useful in the modern world, unless you wanna show off.

[@alchemicmercury]

@randominternetguy3537 ... Are you like, a real person?

[@randominternetguy3537]

@@alchemicmercury I'm close enough

[@creeperexcat6578]

I actually knew Shelby, the Roach girl, as a child when I was about 6 or 7, which is about when the interview takes place. I remember one time she held a Halloween party and there was a “haunted house” with boxes that you would blindly put your hand into. I didn’t think of it at the time that there might be cockroaches in there, so I was surprised when the contents started to climb up my arm. She is a pleasant person but you can definitely tell that the cockroaches are the priority.

[@kingmagikarp97]

I have autism and ADHD and petting and hugging animals like dogs really helps me feel calm and happy

[@ashmenser7959]

Autism is so misunderstood and it really bothers me. My fiancé is autistic but he wasn’t diagnosed until 6 months ago. I always had a hunch that he was on the spectrum but it wasn’t until he started therapy that he finally was diagnosed. I cannot speak to how it has been for him, but as his fiancée, I have been asked many times if it’s changed anything about our relationship and it hasn’t at all. It can feel condescending when people think that those with autism are automatically lesser than neurotypical individuals. He works a normal job, supports me while I’m finishing college, and loves me more than anyone else ever has.

[@makadoodledoo]

thank you for this comment

[@luciusaurelius209]

I really respect your integrity and how you recognize these are people who deserve to have their dignity respected. Especially with the second clip, the two sisters. I appreciate you man.

[@theILOVEFDP]

When I was younger, my mother use to take me into the tanning beds with her. So I started tanning when I was 4 years old technically. Because she's black and I'm half, she thought we couldn't get melanoma. Now that I'm an adult and a nurse. I understand how dangerous that was. Not to mention when I use to tan as a teenager in Highschool to help clear up my skin. It's crazy how much the public school system doesn't cover on the importance of sunscreen and limiting sun exposure, to protect your health.

[@rondaallen7211]

and Dr Mike never talked about how leathery this makes your skin. seems like your mom is confused tho

[@artchic528]

Not that I'm suggesting your mother did anything to intentionally harm you, things were different in the past, but these days i don't even think 4 year old's are allowed anywhere near a tanning bed and a parent who does bypass the salon's protocols for this and puts their 4 year old in a bed would be called child abusers by everyone and their aunt online. I remember seeing this video on the internet making the rounds about a woman so addicted to tanning that she was browner than a chocolate cake, and her ethnicity was white as sliced bread (of course things are often over exaggerated, but she was definitely a tanorexic. She had a nickname, forgot what that was, (Tan Mom maybe) but she gave her 10 year old daughter some tanning vouchers and the internet was all up in arms about child abuse. Again, for you it was a different time, and knowledge and attitudes were certainly different in the past (not sure which decade you were 4 in and I won't ask out of respect), so don't think I'm calling anyone, let alone your mother, a child abuser.

[@Nillu89]

To think that people laugh a bit when I tell them that I always wear SPF 50 sunscreen, a hat, big sunglasses, cover up as much as I can in breathable fabrics and use a parasol in the summer... I've used sunscreen every single sunny day since I was 13 (I'm turning 33 next month) and it shows. I've gotten loads of comments that I look younger than I am.

[@rondaallen7211]

@@Nillu89 Michele Phillips said the same thing. and she looked good for a long time too.

[@chubbydinosaur9148]

@@Nillu89 I'm 31, I think I look like it but my skin is ✨flawless✨staying inside for the past 20 years, due to untreated depression had at least one benefit 😂

[@arbitraryname7273]

I used to breed dubia and hissing roaches at work for pets and feeding to reptiles. They're commonly bred in large, vented storage containers like hers. Any stinkiness is from moisture buildup from uneaten food/corpses/waste/lack of ventilation - basically poor husbandry. Her parents need to supervise the bin more to ensure the animals are cared for a bit better. The thing is with roaches, however, is that if she's constantly playing with them she could develop allergies. They're also known to trigger asthma from their frass. Her parents really shouldn't be allowing her to put them in her bedding and toys.

[@rexana_rexana]

from my memory she uses a type of beetle or other small insect to keep the tanks clean.

[@KatParker88]

I had a HUGE addiction to tanning, I worked at a salon and initially the owner told us to do it so we could tell customers first hand. But then I would go EVERY day. So many things that I liked about it and to be honest, I miss it so much. But I also have some new moles - and I'm scared to get them looked at.

[@paolaucci5302]

I like that Dr Mike is not judgemental but compassionate. That's how a good doctor should be... and any person really...

[@Marlainnaa]

I love how empathetic mike is. Truly professional and kind!

[@west60]

Hello 👋 how are you doing

[@redsoles174]

The Real Life Ken Doll has been profiled many times. He has developed his own implants to be surgically implanted. He has designed his body to his what he considers the perfect image. He does look like very healthy and buff, but they challenged him to some strength exercises, and needless to say, he did not do very well. Thank you, Dr. Mike, for being objective and providing medically sound advice and information. These videos very easily bring up opinions and criticism, so thank you for your professionalism.

[@dendenp9]

I think the plastic surgeons discussed it with him at first then finally gave up wen he kept coming back. Plus all that money for each procedure

[@kenziehurlock]

Imagine wanting to have muscles, but not wanting to work out. Crazy idea. Like dude that's a packaged deal.

[@florhauresz4606]

Didn't he die?

[@tuftyterror983]

@redsoles 17 just like the actual doll.

[@dendenp9]

@@tuftyterror983 def

[@laciecurd4214]

Gosh that is so true that when you hit 30s or 40s, you realize how careless you were with your body. So many things I wish I hadn't done that affect me now. Good advice for all young ones

[@gamingwithsam801]

im going to put it out here doctor mike is so respectful and just amazing and we should all appreciate it

[@hgfdsjhgfd3154]

Thank you so much for saying its ok not to want to be in a relationship! 99% of the people around me just say I have just not met the right person yet whenever I say I don't want to be in a relationship. It makes me feel like there is something wrong with me.

[@loftyradish6972]

Oh man its annoying when people say that. I also got "you will grow into it" as though I wasn't in my 20s. Condescending pricks. The other one is when they look at you in the eyes, place a hand on your arm and say in a very sincere and understanding voice "and thats okay" as though you told them your deepest, darkest most shameful secret rather than something that you consider completely normal and makes you happy. You do you, there is nothing wrong with you.

[@Stxrz.vfx.]

“You can cuddle a pet without them judging you” *my cat Chloe has left the chat*

[@goatmom2980]

Lol

[@anasazidarkmoon]

Cats judge everyone, though, so it's nothing personal.

[@goatmom2980]

@@anasazidarkmoon not my cat. Then again, he’s more dog than cat so I’m not sure if he counts.

[@chunkemonke777]

As a cat owner I can relate

[@Kaloapoele]

I felt this was false information too 😂

[@jadespargo8150]

Such an incredibly professional and compassionate doctor

[@SuperOrangemoon]

He's just an amazing human being. Even I find it hard sometimes not to feel or think judgingly regarding certain types of addictions in these videos...

[@psyche_therainsilk]

*“Can you have one roach? One friend roach?”* -Doctor Mike 2022 😂

[@ProphetZMTG]

As a former dermatology MA I DETEST tanning with every fiber in my body. We always talked at our office about how tanning beds are even allowed to be legal

[@lexwithbub]

More and more places are banning them, thankfully.

[@amymckay23]

They’ve been banned in Australia for almost 8 years now. Y’all have had 8 extra years of the cancer lights and that’s terrifying.

[@jonchampion8720]

In high we had a coach who had that tan orange skin she was skinny too we called her the walking carrot. 6:56

[@ODST_Jay]

Dr Mike, hissing cockroaches do in fact hiss by “breathing” kind of. They force air through their spiracles (their breathing holes) to make the noise. Also, the Tupperware for lego that she was using is alright for keeping roaches. I know that because I keep spiders.

[@thelasttiger7208]

the girl who collects cockroaches could grow up to be an entomologist

[@vangu2918]

👍

[@Carrotsrcuul]

Yeah and she seems to take very good care of them so honestly good for her

[@vibespidersstudios8895]

Honestly the girl did her research on taking of her bugs and a really good set up. I would like a update what she does now bc it would be interesting she is taking care of pill bugs.

[@internetexplorer6304]

Honestly I'm not a psychologist but I see this as perfectly healthy. Just a cute lil girl with a weird hobby. A modern Wednesday Adams!

[@arsonsnail]

as someone going into entomology yes!! if you have a passion for something and feel you can make it into a career without putting yourself at risk, especially in something as niche as entomology which has many career openings and options but not many people willing to go into those careers, definitely go for it! as a kid i was just like her and absolutely fascinated with insects and bugs in general, ive had many pet arthropods in my life including millipedes, earwigs, and isopods and eventually it turned into more than a hobby, good luck to her and i really hope she ends up persuing entomology!!

[@Gunships.]

love how Doctor Mike is still 100% respectable and understanding of peoples strange addictions

[@rebeccabehrens4472]

I loved how empathetic and nonjudgmental you were. Especially, when the twin's friend said they can't be in a relationship, and you said they might not even want that. How you put the emphasis on functioning and quality of life and not on cultural or social norms. Love your videos.

[@Stay_leolove-ih1ch]

As a teen who has recently been diagnosed with autism I can definitely say that for me it is hard to be loving with someone else and not be judged because of the things I might say or do that are not socially acceptable so I can definitely see why he needs those inflatable animals because objects don judge what you do but humans do. Also I wanna say I love your content and thank you for being awesome Dr.Mike

[@kait_herring]

Animals are so comforting ❤ I can see why he loves his inflatable animals. I really appreciate that Dr. Mike is not judgmental at all towards these people.

[@palomitapalomita7866]

3:44 I'm a twin and that's actually my worst fear. My twin sister dying is the worst thing that could ever happen to me. It's not irrational, I went to school with another set of twins and one of them died due to a brain tumor at 16 yo. I know It's not likely to happen, but it could. I cried a lot that day, but I wasn't crying bc of the one that died, I cried bc I could imagine how the surviving sister felt. That's the day I started fearing something like that could happen to us.

[@claragemheart581]

I can get this, to a certain degree. I’m not a twin, i’m an older sister, but i don’t want to imagine a future where my sister dies and i survive. One of the advices i heard was, “don’t expect death, since death is unexpected, but rather spend a lot of time with your love ones. Because you can see them today, but what if you cant see them tomorrow?”

[@lilokaufmann8191]

I like that you are respectful towards the people and take them seriously. I aprechiate that 👍

[@Swnsasy]

This episode really actually hurt my soul. The first young man about his mom is just so sad... I really hope they get help and live a much better life...

[@helplesspigeon3092]

My brother was diagnosed with autism but he is allergic to every animal in existence so i had to support him and comfort him. my brother struggled to learn to talk so he only spoke gibberish. None of my family could understand him but i was near him so much to the point that i understood him perfectly. I was my little brothers translator. He learned to actually talk when he was 5. He is 7 and he honestly never stops talking. He is still learning to pronounce some words but he is doing amazing. Thank you guys for the ideas! I will see if my parents will get a reptile or a hairless dog for my lil bro. Love Ya'll 💕

[@bradentheman1373]

That is good to hear! I hope u guys are doing well ❤

[@v.caveda]

If I may, may I advocate for reptiles and recommend a snake for him? I'm also on the spectrum, and while I didn't get them for hypoallergenic reasons, I find them very comforting and tactile pets and a huge amount of them are very low maintenance. Highly recommend a ball python. Very sociable. A lot of other people in the reptile hobby also get a lot out of bearded dragons, but they have more complex UVB lighting needs.

[@samhenley7156]

There are several hypoallergenic cats, and Japan has robot pets.

[@helplesspigeon3092]

@@samhenley7156 Robot pets are actually pretty expensive and my mom hates cats. I'm pretty sure there might be hairless dogs so i will see if my parents will get a hairless dog for my brother.

[@samhenley7156]

@@helplesspigeon3092 There are also allergy shots

[@michaelbutler1619]

The neck ring thing wasn't always done for fashion. That Thailand tribe started doing it to protect themselves from tiger attacks (tigers usually kill by biting through the neck and severing the spinal cord).

[@lisal5718]

It was also a protection against getting caught up in the African slave trade in some parts of Africa. Because the women were considered less healthy.

[@noxater4463]

Kayan people are Burmese ethnic tribe. Not Thailand. I don't know if there's a tribe in Thailand that wear neckrings too tho.

[@anniestumpy9918]

If that were true, mostly men would use those rings since they are more exposed to dangerous attacks. So that makes no sense to me. It's one of those weird sexual beauty standards things like high heels in the western world.

[@storyranger]

@@noxater4463 Kayan refugees in Thailand also do the rings.

[@spacechimp5141]

I spent my childhood alone, my mom worked a lot. I didn't see her but once a week, sometimes. but hugging objects to make myself feel less lonely never crossed my mind. I did draw a lot and would think out loud just to feel better. I can understand loneliness.

[@smurphy4407]

When he talked about animals not being judgemental that talked right to me. I have a horse and just the other day I was about ready to cry in front of my family but I held it in and told myself that I had to be strong. I don't know why but growing up I always pushed myself to show minimum emotions in front of people because I felt that emotion made me weak. But that day just like many other days I went to the barn to see my horse and I gave him a big hug and I let myself cry. Because I know it may sound crazy but not only are animals not judgmental but I think they understand and care about you and whenever I needed someone to lean on I go to my horse and let my emotions go and I even talk to him to get everything off my chest.

[@anadd6195]

You did well. But I also hope you can become able to display your emotions to others one day, without feeling weak about it. It's harder when it's family even though they are great but usually there is a reason behind it. It has been taking years in therapy but I'm getting there little by little. I hope you can too. Hugs to you 😊🙌

[@smurphy4407]

@@anadd6195 This comment was really helpful I am relived to know that someone understands that family is great but there are reasons you don't always feel comfortable talking to them. When I was in middle school I went to my guidance counselor when I was feeling depressed but when I got home I found out that the school called my parents recommending me for therapy and to attend a school depression group. I know it may sound stupid but after that I lost trust with telling my emotions to counselors and teachers. There are still days though that I think about asking to go to therapy but I am still in high school and I don't think my parents (who are divorced ) would be able to afford it. But anyway after that long life story lol I just wanted to tell you that I appreciated your comment. Thank you. (I am glad to hear that you are doing better and I hope things keep getting better.)

[@maxamillion2608]

As someone who was recently diagnosed with ASD at age twenty one last year some of the things said about animal therapy really stuck with me. I grew up on a farm where animals were my best friends, some of what you said explained so much.

[@Nillu89]

I've found it hard to make friends my whole life and I got bullied in school from age 8-19, so animals have always been my preferred company. No judgement, we take care of each other, we respect one another and they cheer me up when I'm sad.

[@wmdkitty]

Animals are good people.

[@sheilarough236]

I have a cousin who suffers from post polio pain syndrome. She had a tanning bed, she said laying it was like a heating pad for her whole body. But she didn’t lay in it every day, and she used very high SPF sunblock. It reduced her pain so she didn’t have to take as many opioids

[@sheilarough236]

She was diagnosed with polio just before the vaccine was released. She has a sign in the back of her power chair that says It’s Polio, Vaccinate

[@its-a-small-world-afterall]

That makes sense. I feel like that is something that should be exercised for people with chronic pain.

[@quinnedavis7707]

They should make a heating bed that doesn't include tanning.

[@matthewsheldon8476]

I thought polio was eradicated. Oh wait the illegal aliens brought it back in.

[@thegriffinnews]

I can relate to the inflatables guy. I take a stuffed animal with me everywhere bc I have terrible anxiety. Having a lil fuzzy guy with me to hug or just know is nearby really helps alleviate some of my distress. It helps that my fave plushie smells like my house and sometimes like my bf if I've spent the night recently. I wish I could have a pet but my landlord doesn't allow it. :(

[@BelleRose11000]

I admire how Dr Mike has experienced a lot and become so wise at a young age.

[@laxmichirra2631]

i always appreciate the fact that doctor mike is never judgmental and keeps things professional. in my experience that is something i haven’t always seen

[@HibbsFamily5833]

If you don’t think he’s judgmental then I have bridge I want to sell you

[@canesugar911]

@@HibbsFamily5833 😂

[@iisledgyii8722]

6:29 I am not ever entering that house without protective gear💀

[@ShadowRavenPaws]

Being in love with the inflatables in the very beginning of this video is understanding to me. I have my stuffed animal husky that I have for emotional support since I don't have an actual pet.. The lady with the neck ring actually made me really squeamish because I have asthma and I get a lot of panic attacks.. And the feeling of something practically choking my neck into place just is disgusting and also seems very painful to me. I like watching these types of videos though because it shows that everyone is unique and doing tje things they do shows a part of themselves which I appreciate.. Even if some makes me squeamish. Dr. Mike I love all your videos so much. They are so entertaining and I learn something new with every one. I want to be a veterinarian and these videos inspire that dream. Love you!❤

[@-horrible-]

Thanks for not judging them on any level other than a scientific standpoint

[@MichelleCallahan]

I've never been so embarrassed of my previous self after watching how respectful Dr. Mike was, watching this. I know the show was made for shock factor but you're right. This is how we should approach these topics and how I will, going forward.

[@LeopardJoy]

I don't think the show was made for shock factor at all.

[@MichelleCallahan]

@LeopardJoy what was it made for? Taking this from their Wikipedia- Daily News (New York) declared the show the "most disgusting reality show on television," while US Weekly gave the series a two star rating, stating "afflictions are fascinating, but too much time is spent gawking at their odd behavior as opposed to treating it. " TV Guide called the series "maybe the most entertaining freak show on television now, and definitely the most guilt-free one" "Kesha who appeared in the 1st episode has revealed that producers had "encouraged situational storylines and fed lines to her friends." Producers were also heavily careless and wanted "ratings & crazy addictions"

[@LeopardJoy]

@@MichelleCallahan I was speaking about Dr Mike's video.

[@brookeb452]

@@MichelleCallahan don’t be too hard on yourself, the important part is you reflected on past behavior and decided you were unhappy with that so you decided to make a positive change. I’d say that’s one of the most important parts of life, learning empathy and compassion, and growing to be a better human ❤

[@rakuloe]

I love how dr Mike doesn't judge verbally and non-verbally. Heartwarming to watch these videos while they are also informational.

[@WolvenSCP]

Mike is the best mix of funny and professional I've ever seen like the memes series is funny but series line this he is professional and I really respect that

[@TsukasaElkKite]

Dr. Mike has amazing empathy.

[@starfishgurl1984]

As someone on the autistic spectrum with both sensory and auditory processing disorders I can totally relate sort of to what Mike said about the pleasure centers of the brain having crossed wires. For me it mostly has to do with my high pain tolerance from a lack of/under reacting to sensory input so I get feelings of euphoria from injections/needles/having blood drawn/giving blood and even as a by product from seeing other people receive/get/have them done to them and because I also don’t experience sexual or romantic attraction towards anyone I get kind of obsessed with the euphoric feelings I get from them in place of those. Some people have foot fetishes, I have blood/needle/etc. fetishes and it sometimes crosses over into related areas of the medical field like blood pressure readings, stethoscopes, abdominal exams, etc., I keep saying if it weren’t for my sensory issues I’d be a phlebotomist or nurse or something similar in another life as a result.

[@synonymouswithjello2359]

I have such a phobia of needles. I can't imagine being even okay with them, let alone liking them! Even as an adult I feel horrifically sick and terrified if I need to get a shot or have blood taken. It's so embarrassing. You seem very powerful to me😂

[@CaptainMothwing]

I'm working on getting an autism diagnosis and I've found with needles I either love them or hate them. It kinda depends on the needle. Sometimes I enjoy the sensation (like with regular vaccinations or my testosterone shots), other times I dread it (like with anesthetic needles,,, they go too deep and it freaks me out. Getting blood drawn is also unpleasant but it's not the needle that hurts, it's the fuckin tourniquet.)

[@jesuispapillon]

this is so interesting because i’m like the exact opposite. i have trypanophobia and it’s so bad i can’t even look at pictures or videos of injections/ drawing blood without getting extremely nauseous (i also feel sick to my stomach when i think about needles)

[@Jerepasaurus]

I'm autistic and asexual as well, though I like to write erotica and wish I could have had a relationship, I've just never been that lucky to find the right person. But anyway, I do have a reasonable pain tolerance myself, though have always been freaked out by certain kinds of body horror. Needles, cuts, punctures, and YET, the weirdest thing is that I pierced my own ear about 8 times, or when I got my first infected hangnail, I got an xacto knife and did minor surgery on it myself and it turned out perfect.

[@rachelculver1023]

Help please help me

[@oliviadavis3638]

3:53 This sort of happened with two of my chickens. The first time I hatched eggs, I only hatched two chicks. They were identical in every way, and although they now have small differences I think I'm the only one who can truly tell them apart. They are half sisters, both hybrids, only had each other growing up until they had already formed their idea of relationships and when I put them in with the other chickens, they only wanted each other. Would hang out all day, do everything together, eating, sleeping, etc. Rarely more than a few feet away from each other at any given time. They hardly even interacted with the other chickens. Younger sis was (and still is) very antisocial, and the only other chicken she would tolerate and not pick on was her sis. Well when they're six months old, the older sister decides to hatch babies and runs away. (We thought she was dead, in reality she had a clutch of eggs underneath the food shed) Younger sis is totally lost, has no idea what to do with her life without older sis. She was sad, I could tell, and just wandered aimlessly throughout the yard looking for sis, much less spunky than before. Slept in different places each night because she wanted the comfort of being by another chicken, only she doesn't particularly like the rest of the flock and the rest of the flock doesn't particularly like her, so no one wants to be by her. Eventually heals and goes mostly back to normal, only sleeps alone now and still has no friends. Meanwhile she's also become an aunt, older sis and her chicks are attacked and older sis shields her babies, gaining sufficient wounds and gets infection that takes her within an inch of loosing her life but survives and successfully raises five chicks. (she adopted three of them, but that's a story for a different time) When she returns to the flock, along with her five now almost-adult children, their relationship is at an odd point. Her sister has already grieved and moved on, so with older sis back she is a bit confused. Younger sis at first gives her the cold shoulder (I am not joking, their lives are actually this dramatic) and then treats her like the rest of the flock, pecking her occasionally but still reserving some mercy. Older sis is not as antisocial, (edit: in fact, quite friendly) and makes friends within the flock, but its nothing like the relationship she once had with her sister. Their relationship as of today is better, they sleep next to each other every night and older sis is still the only one younger sis will sleep directly next to, (she will forcefully kick anyone else off the perch if they try, and they have) and younger sis is still sort of a jerk and picks on everyone but the rooster twice her size...and her sister. Although they don't follow each other around anymore, and don't eat together, etc., their relationship is at a good point and its been a rough ride, but I think we're finally at the end of the drama.... Oh wait. Now younger sis has an ominous growth on her belly. Praying its not cancer, she isn't even a year old. When this is all said and done, I'm going to have to write & publish a book about this one day, if anyone is wondering.

[@k2yp705]

You DEFINITELY have to make a book about this story. Had me hooked from start to finish, haha!

[@oliviadavis3638]

@@k2yp705 lol thanks! I was even trying to shorten it down without skipping too much and making it confusing, but there was so much to write about. And probably there's more coming...

[@zioulz3685]

Idk abt a book but lmk when you cook em

[@oliviadavis3638]

@@halloweenbear8108 lol it might take longer than that 😂I skipped a bunch of details, like how we found older sis, the attack, her adopted chicks, (one is a bantam and while her brothers are bigger than mom now, littlest chick can still fit in the palm of my hand) and several other events

[@ShaniqueHyde]

Commenting purely so I can stay in the loop about the book's release date

[@jameschapman4415]

I love how Dr Mike makes incredible videos

[@grungepen]

I have autism, and it was really important to me that you mentioned how good animal therapy is to us. It's so true! Sometimes my sensory issues will make me extremely anxious, and being able to spend time with animals is super therapeutic. That's why emotional support dogs and service dogs are extremely important to have :)

[@anniestumpy9918]

The "problem" with service animals is their "expiration date", they have to be replaced frequently because they can only keep up their performance for so many years. I think they have their place but from an animal welfare point of view there are some critical aspects.

[@grungepen]

@@anniestumpy9918 maybe service dogs yeah but emotional support dogs are different

[@makadoodledoo]

@@anniestumpy9918 usually service dogs go to good homes afterwards