Why We Believe Monkeys are Not Pets
Monkeys are wild animals. They might be cute when babies and before sexual maturity, but soon that changes as they grow and require their sexual needs to be met. Behavioral problems start to show. They might attack owners, become territorial, bite scratch, or become depressed and show destructive behavior or get a disorder like arthritis. Many pet owners become disappointed and emotionally hurt. They might make excuses for the animal's behavior, and deny that a problem exists. In the end, most of these pets end up in cages, at zoos, put to sleep, at sanctuaries, or worst as laboratory animals. What was intended as a happy life for the pet ends up as a nightmare.
Monkeys require a lot of attention; they get attached to their owners. They also require veterinary care and proper food and other equipment. All this can become expensive. Expect to deal with messes and training issues. The animal will become dependent on your care and attention and become upset when you go on vacation; it may eventually become sick, sad or depressed.
Many unrealistic owners who want a docile pet will mutilate monkeys and extract their teeth, nails, or their sexual organs; an inhumane practice. They become disappointed when the animals do not turn as docile as they were hoping. They may end up chaining them or confining them to cages. This is an unnatural habitat for a monkey. In the end, they give up on the animal and dispose of it - the animal ends up suffering. Monkeys live a long life, and many people do not realize that. Sometimes, it is too late when they find out, and they do not want such a long commitment. Many owners will expect a well behaved child, not an eternal toddler, which leads to disappointment, and the decision of disposing of the pet monkey. Once more, not fair to the animal.
A lot must be considered before making the decision of having a monkey as a pet or a surrogate child. Research information about them and visit social networks and forums to learn about other monkey owners experience and advice. Many times, there might be stories that ended up not so well, and you might have the opportunity of communicating with that person and learning a lot more. Many times, not all the information is on the books. It is your responsibility as a potential pet owner to learn as much as you can about the animal.
Monkeys have their own natural species needs and they must be met in order for them to live normal lives; human companionship is not all they need. Understanding this will be of much weight when deciding to have a monkey as a pet. It is important to learn as much as you can about the species - as not all species are the same - and especially about their behavioral needs and challenges. Many times, and informed individual will end up deciding not to adopt a monkey for all the right reasons. Monkeys are beautiful animals who deserve the best life possible; it is our responsibility to treat them with respect to their species and their natural needs. For more information visit http://petmonkey.info/