In Liberia, a remarkable group of dogs are making a difference to the lives of orphaned baby chimpanzees.
At Jenny and Jim Desmond’s sanctuary, Liberia Chimpanzee Rescue & Protection, dogs have taken on an unusual role, helping orphaned chimps learn to thrive again after being rescued from the illegal pet trade.
Over 100 orphaned baby chimpanzees live at Liberia Chimpanzee Rescue & Protection’s sanctuary in Liberia, having been rescued from the illegal bushmeat and pet trades.
Jimmy and Jenny Desmond have built a sanctuary in the forest where these rescued chimpanzees live together forming new chimpanzee families and receiving around the clock care from human surrogate mothers.
The dogs in the family have also taken on the vital role of playmates and canine caregivers, particularly Princess, who was rescued from death row herself, and became a mother figure to the chimpanzees and a significant part of their healing process, helping them feel safe and comfortable.
The Desmonds and the chimpanzees sadly lost Princess in 2020 at the age of 15. Pepe, Monkey, and Zavy are also rescue dogs from the nearby cities. Pepe came to the Desmonds with a broken back. After getting physiotherapy, he joined them all as a canine caregiver too.
"Chimpanzees are not pets and should not be intentionally live with humans, dogs, or in human settings, says Jenny Desmond.
"The chimpanzees at Liberia Chimpanzee Rescue & Protection’s sanctuary in West Africa are victims of the illegal bushmeat and pet trades. Their mothers were tragically killed. Thanks to our dedicated and loving team, these individuals are rehabilitated so they can thrive with other chimpanzees in a natural and safe environment for their lifetimes."
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