From a roadside zoo, four chimpanzees watched as others walked by, free to explore and roam, while they were confined to tiny spaces, left alone.
There was no way they could expect what would happen next. However, when a nonprofit group saw their suffering and knew they had to do something about the chimps.
Now, Anna, April, Lucy, and Cash, have embarked on a new journey of hope and freedom.
Photo courtesy of Save The Chimps
Previously confined in a roadside zoo in Ohio, their lives were forever changed when “Save the Chimps,” a nonprofit organization dedicated to the welfare of chimpanzees, took over their care. The chimps had been confined indoors by their former owner, an exotic animal keeper recently sentenced to jail.
The Ohio Department of Agriculture relinquished custody of these magnificent creatures to Save the Chimps, enabling them to experience a fresh start.
The compassionate team at Save the Chimps went above and beyond to ensure the chimps’ safety and well-being. Journeying from Florida to Ohio, they personally transported Anna, April, Lucy, and Cash to their new sanctuary. Upon their arrival at the 150-acre haven, the primates shared an emotional hug, which was captured on video, quickly going viral. It was a heartwarming celebration that symbolized their freedom from captivity..
Dr. Andrew Halloran, Save the Chimps’ director of chimpanzee behavior and care, expressed his excitement about the chimpanzees’ future:
These are extremely intelligent chimpanzees who deserve the chance to explore a larger world. We look forward to seeing them thrive on a vast island habitat with 15-20 new lifelong companions, with the freedom to choose where they want to be and who they want to be with.”
Save the Chimps is renowned for providing refuge to chimpanzees that are retired or rescued from various places, including laboratories, the entertainment industry, the pet trade and roadside zoos. PETA, an organization dedicated to animal rights, played a crucial role in facilitating the rescue of chimps, as well as contributing to their future care at the sanctuary.
Photo courtesy of Save The Chimp
Brittany Peet, PETA’s general counsel for captive animal law enforcement, said “It’s a happy new chapter for these four chimpanzees, who will have a great life, with lush grounds to explore and the opportunity to socialize with others of their kind… PETA urges everyone to steer clear of roadside zoos as if animals’ lives depend on it — because they do.”
The dedication and support of organizations like PETA are instrumental in ensuring a brighter future for animals in need.
View this profile on Instagram
Save the Chimps provided personal insights into each chimpanzee’s unique personality on their website. Anna, the first to enter their new home, has already explored and embraced her new surroundings. April has a favorite pink stuffed monkey that she carries around, while Lucy acts as the loving caregiver to her small family. Cash, on the other hand, displays excitement over the food and enrichment items offered, particularly fresh-cut browse.
Animal lovers around the world now have the opportunity to be part of Anna, April, Lucy, and Cash’s journey by donating to Save the Chimps. Through the generosity of an anonymous donor, all donations made to Save the Chimps until July 31 will be matched, making every contribution even more important.
Home, a place often taken for granted, holds immense significance for both humans and animals alike. The Union Ridge Wildlife Center, which once held Anna, April, Lucy, and Cash, was an inadequate home. But now, thanks to Save the Chimps’ sanctuary, they have found solace and a chance at a new and fulfilling life.
Watch the heartwarming story below.
