Caring for primates in the sanctuary setting is full of highs and lows. We rejoice when an introduction is successful – when formerly isolated pets find companionship and flourish under our care. The staff and volunteers at the PRC form very close and special bonds with the primates they care for and work tirelessly to provide the highest quality of care at all stages of our primates’ lives.
Unfortunately, working with living creatures means we also must deal with our grief when one of our friends passes away. Unlike domesticated pets, even critically ill primates often will not tolerate frequent injections, IV lines, and other stressful – but lifesaving – treatments. However, we do have the ability to make their final days with us as enriching, loving, and fulfilling as possible.
We were devastated to learn recently that Booger, one of our beloved spider monkeys, is in the final stages of kidney failure. Since receiving this sad news, the PRC staff has moved him to the main building where we can shower him with love, attention, and all the tasty treats he wants. He seems to be enjoying the extra special care and squeals with happiness whenever someone walks into the room. We can sense that he knows just how special he is to all of us.
Booger has lived at the Primate Rescue Center for 17 years, spending his days with fellow spider monkeys Bisou, Chester and Dehlia. He has an unforgettable personality and always brings a smile to the face of anyone who meets him. Booger loves to sit in the sun and groom his buddies, run down the length of his cage to chase the golf cart, and bounce up and down on a squeaky toy while chirping and whistling for attention. Booger is known for his unmistakable squeals of joy, his round little potbelly, and his kind face. He also has strikingly beautiful stormy eyes that are an unusual deep grayish blue color.
Booger will always hold a very special place in our hearts. We cherish his final days with us, and feel fortunate each morning when we hear his friendly whistling greeting and get to spoil him just a little while longer.