Thousands of chimpanzees retired from biomedical research and entertainment industries require specialized sanctuary care that addresses their profound psychological needs.
Ex-research chimpanzees carry deep psychological wounds. Social isolation during laboratory housing disrupts the complex bonds central to chimpanzee life. Many arrive at sanctuaries with stereotypies, phobias of humans in white coats, and severe social deficits. Sanctuary welfare requires not just space and nutrition but expert behavioral management, positive reinforcement training, and long-term relationship-building with skilled caregivers.