Primate sanctuaries provide lifetime care for chimpanzees, gorillas, and other primates from research, entertainment, and private ownership. Understanding what makes a sanctuary effective guides both donations and advocacy.
High-quality primate sanctuaries demonstrate that even severely traumatized primates can recover meaningful welfare when provided appropriate social and physical environments. The rehabilitation trajectory of former laboratory chimpanzees at accredited facilities shows that psychological recovery is possible, though it takes time and expert care. The distinction between genuine sanctuaries with appropriate outdoor habitats and social groups versus pseudo-sanctuaries with inadequate conditions under welfare branding is critical for effective donor support.