http://www.chimphaven.org/chimp-haven-mourns-the-loss-of-flick/ (10.23.12)
Early this morning Flick, a 40-year-old male chimpanzee, passed away from gastrointestinal complications. Yesterday Chimp Haven’s veterinarian, Dr. Jackson, performed surgery and found significant damage and compromise to his intestinal track. The damaged sections of the GI were removed and an anastomosis (reconnection) performed. Despite these efforts, Flick was unable to recover from his compromised state.
Prior to coming to Chimp Haven, Flick spent 30 years of his life in cramped cages in a laboratory in New York while being used as an HIV and hepatitis subject. When the lab closed, he, Doc, Pierre, Murphy, and Jojo were moved to a sanctuary in Texas which went bankrupt last year. Through the generosity of donors, Chimp Haven was able to rescue these chimpanzees and provide them with the home they deserved.
Flick liked to spend his days showing off to the caregivers. When anyone passed by his wooded habitat, he’d run along the edge of the moat and toss rocks and sticks in the air. He also liked treats and presents. During the Holidays, he enjoyed unwrapping presents that were donated by our caring supporters.
While we are deeply saddened by the loss of Flick, we are grateful that he was able to spend the final year of his life in a group with access to an environment similar to his wild relatives.
--
Another casualty of the WAO's wonderful care provided to the chimps. At the WAO, the chimps did NOT receive vet care, they did NOT receive "enrichment" from their supposed "animal caretakers", they did NOT have appropriate quarters or outdoor play areas. Poor Flick only got to enjoy a very short period of freedom and fun -- and now he is gone. It's just not right.
No comments:
Post a Comment