Stop the Shocks — this vegan life

The refuge saves 85% of the infant monkeys they rescue and 20% of adults. While the mother absorbs most of the electrical current, her baby is more likely to survive, albeit badly burned and injured. Some are lucky enough to have only minor burns and adapt well to their disabilities. Each infant stays in rehabilitation until they are around two and a half years old, costing around £180 a month.

Injuries caused by electrocution are most often fatal. Electrical burns hit hands, feet and tail, or worse, the entire face and body. In cases where the monkey catches fire, burns are severe. Without intervention, monkeys are known to gnaw at their own injuries until they ‘self-amputate’.

At the refuge clinic, the veterinarian team are experienced in treating electrical burns. Amputations are performed to remove decaying limbs, fingers, toes and tails. Wounds are cleaned and dressed, pain relief and antibiotics are administered. There are 30 orphans in the refuge’s dedicated nursery at any one time and those who require amputations are monitored while they adapt.

‘We name all the monkeys. Like Bernie, who caught on fire when he was electrocuted in December 2016. After many months of care, he was released in April last year. Or Midnight, who was found blinded by head trauma after he was electrocuted and fell to the ground. After rehabilitating in our outdoor enclosure he was released, with his sight fully restored, in September.’