Wet Nose saves monkey from inevitable death

Veronica van Greunen from Wet Nose in Bronkhorstspruit embarked on a unique rescue operation on March 23.
She saved a baby vervet monkey tied to a gutter and taunted by children.

Wet Nose was alerted to a monkey found in dire circumstances. The young primate could not reach the water bowl placed mockingly just out of his reach. Van Greunen said the monkey suffered in the scorching sun and was severely dehydrated.

With gentle hands, Van Greunen stepped in to quench his thirst and fill his tummy, offering the first signs of a brighter tomorrow.

Declan Rodocanachi from Wet Nose said, “Our little friend grabbed onto the food we gave him, scared we were going to take it away. Watching his first cautious sips and nibbles, we couldn’t help but feel a mix of joy and determination.”

The next step was ensuring he received the medical attention he needed, which led Wet Nose to the compassionate professionals at the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital.

“They learnt that our little fighter is not just battling physical ailments but emotional scars as well, showing a profound fear of men and a bottomless hunger, likely from days of neglect,” said Rodocanachi.

Exciting news followed. A special place at the Vervet Monkey Foundation was ready for him, where he will learn to climb, play, and trust and love again in a safe, nurturing environment.

“He will also receive a monkey foster mommy who will teach him right from wrong. It’s a future filled with the joys of monkeyhood, something every young explorer deserves.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in this rescue, from the person who alerted us to him to the skilled hands at Johannesburg Wildlife Vet and the future caretakers at the Vervet Foundation,” said Rodocanachi.

Removing SA’s indigenous animals from their natural habitat without a valid permit is illegal.