Former Research Chimpanzees Receive Comprehensive Health Checks at Liberian Sanctuary

Monrovia, Liberia – A group of chimpanzees formerly used in research, now enjoying retirement at Humane World for Animals’ Second Chance Chimpanzee Refuge Liberia, recently underwent comprehensive health checks.

Detailed Medical Examinations Conducted

The sanctuary’s veterinary team and specialist experts performed ‘head to toe’ medical exams to assess the chimpanzees’ long-term health, detect early signs of disease, and tailor care plans as they age. Under anesthesia, the chimpanzees received dental examinations and cleanings, assessed their eyes, heart, lungs, abdomen, and nervous system, and underwent blood tests and heart scans.

Ongoing Care and Future Planning

The chimpanzees also received booster vaccinations and fingernail trims. Veterinarian Belen Perez Hernando emphasized the importance of these checks, stating, "The health checks are a vital part of caring for these chimpanzees who have been through so much. Many aspects of their health care will feel familiar to people. We check for healthy teeth and gums, good eyesight, strong heart and lung function, normal blood results and signs that their joints, abdomen and nervous system are all working as they should."

Sanctuary Provides Lifelong Commitment

Liliana Pacheco Ricote, director at Second Chance Chimpanzee Refuge Liberia, highlighted the sanctuary’s commitment, saying, "These are not simply medical appointments, they are part of our lifelong commitment to give these extraordinary chimps the best life possible." The sanctuary, which houses dozens of chimpanzees, provides a natural environment where they roam freely and live in social groups.

Background

Many of the chimpanzees at Second Chance were captured as infants and subjected to invasive experiments at laboratories. The sanctuary provides preventative healthcare to address their complex medical histories and ensure their well-being.