Capuchin monkeys are highly intelligent primates sometimes kept as pets or trained as service animals, with profound welfare consequences from captivity and the trade that supplies demand.
Capuchin monkeys in captivity as pets or service animals experience profound welfare deprivation. Their need for complex social groups, large ranging areas, and rich cognitive stimulation cannot be met in domestic settings. Animals kept alone develop severe behavioral abnormalities. The intelligence that makes them seem endearingly human-like also means they suffer deeply from conditions that prevent the expression of their full behavioral repertoire. Sanctuaries for confiscated pet primates are overwhelmed with animals from failed pet situations.