Monday, December 7, 2009

Another weekend - another world...

Yesterday, Sunday, I went to the farm after a week away. I had missed the monkeys and was looking forward to spending some time with them. And they did not disappoint. The lemurs "popped" at me as I came into the barn - always a welcoming sound. Little Mickey Marmoset chattered away at me several times throughout the day. And old Susie (when George would give her room) came over to get her head scratched as often as I stopped by their enclosure.
But this was not an ordinary Sunday. The Sanctuary had been breached and it was a horrible feeling.
Sherri, Leonard, Malcolm, Jackie and I piled into the car to drive along Sherri and Leonard's property line to the site where a trap had caught a neighbour's dog the week before. Thankfully the dog was ok - but several other animals were not...their carcasses were strewn about the area, and it only took looking to realize that the bodies had been skinned - the furs removed...by whom, for what purpose??? Unknown as yet - but there is an investigation started...we identified a beaver - the tail was still there although the body had been largely destroyed by local predators. There was a fairly complete little body too - missing only its fur - not entirely sure, but the more I think about it, the more I think it might have been an otter. And other remnants too - maybe 5 animals represented in all in that small area close to the spot where the trap had been found. All illegally trapped on Sherri and Leonard's property by an unknown person. We looked further, trying to find other evidence - traps, carcasses, trails - but there was nothing we could spot immediately. The trap was of the cruel sort - where an animal caught in it will try to gnaw off its leg in order to gain freedon - the dog was already beginning to work on that, but was freed before any real damage could be done.
Who does this? What good would be a few pelts of such small animals? Who treats them, processes them? Who buys them? There must be a market or this would not be happening.

Such an invasion, such a feeling of violation - I am hoping the perpetrator is caught SOON - perhaps in a trap????

Monday, November 16, 2009

Weekends at SBF (1)












The first nine
months.....

I started going out to Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary in March of 2009 - and now my week feels incomplete without my Sunday visit to the creatures! Of course I have met some wonderful people in the past while - Sherri and Leonard are two of the finest I have ever come across in many long years of experience!
But the primates are so special. And as I have spent more time there, I have come to know them in some small ways...
Susie was an invisible Spider monkey when I first went to SBF. For the first several weeks, I didn't see her at all, but was told that she was old and not very strong - perhaps not a good prognosis for the future. But with the arrival of spring and the building of the outside enclosures for those creatures who did not yet have one - Susie blossomed. She spent every day (at least when I was there) out on her platform soaking up the summer warmth. She got stronger, she ate better - even switching back to real food from the Boost diet she was on - and coming to meet me. It is such an honour to have this old girl come to the mesh and talk to me, put her head down and ask for a scratch, shift her body so that scratch can be delivered to other areas. George, her enclosure-mate, has always been outgoing and friendly, talkative and sociable (and adored by all), but to get to know Susie has been a real joy.
Then there is Sweet Pea, the Olive baboon who can be sweet or scary depending on the moment and the circumstances. Yesterday she needed to be lured outside so the door could be closed and her indoor enclosure cleaned. The wonderful bottle of peanuts, peanut butter and banana didn't do the trick - but she loves her ju jubes. And she takes them with all the gentleness in the world. She also likes a scratch from time to time, and I was again honoured when she presented herself against the mesh to me and asked me to give her a little rub. I hesitated for a few weeks before I worked up the courage to do this, but now I am ready to grant her request as it comes. There is always vigilance here - Sweet Pea has really impressive teeth and is certainly strong - but she also seems to be grateful for the attention.
And I have seen incredible changes in Lexy and Julian, the Japanese macaques. Their backgrounds are horrific, and they can be very frightening animals. I have no doubt that either of them would attack and injure severely if given the chance. But I have also seen great changes in their behaviour. With the love and kindness they get now - plus good food, enrichment, clean surroundings - they have both calmed down considerably and some of the violence seems to be oozing away. They are both scary still, and I am always extra careful in their vicinity - but they seem to have gentled somewhat, and perhaps one day they will be scratchable too...
 

A Primate Christmas Wish

Happy Monday! Now that Santa Claus has come to town, we are all wishing for a happy Christmas!

Could you help make the primates warm and cozy for the winter? Currently, their home is heated by an oil furnace. As we align our values and goals to be ever more environmentally diligent and cost effective, our wish is to install an outdoor wood burning furnace with a capacity to heat >6,000 square feet. Can you assist in making this wish come true? If you have any contacts or leads, please feel free to contact Leonard White and/or Sherri Delaney at 705-357-3961. Your monetary donation is also appreciated, and can be made through our website via PayPal or by cheque.

We, along with all the monkeys, including the newest resident - Pockets - appreciate your ongoing support and generosity!

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Giving Thanks...

As the weather changes, and the cold evenings begin, we are getting ready for the winter. The residents are sleeping under their heat lamps, and the barn is warm....

...I reflect back on this summer - the joys and heartbreaks. I am thankful for the kind hearts who have joined our community - hands that joined together on Peace Day to pray for peace for all primates - the hard working volunteers who day after day impart tenderness, caring and love - the precious beings who we share lives and moments with - albeit sometimes for a short time - and for the gift of purpose and meaning we all share.

Every time I am at the farm I am truly grateful for Sherri and Leonard who with their hard working hands and loving hearts are building a world of compassion, kindness and mercy...

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Peace

peace
let it blow in your direction
let it touch you
melt you
and
mould you
Children of Parque Ecologico, Brazil

....please join us on Sunday, September 20, 2009

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Peace Day - September 20, 2009 - Peace for All Primates

Summer 2009 has been very busy at the sanctuary. On August 15, we welcomed over 170 people to the farm to learn about our residents and the work we do. Thank you to everyone who came, and to all the great volunteers who helped out.

On September 20, 2009, we will be hosting Peace Day, along with the Jane Goodall Institute, Roots & Shoots groups, members of Free the Children, and other communities in a celebration of peace. The day will include inspirational speakers, workshops, nature activities, drumming, games, tours of the farm, vegetarian bbq, and readings. The afternoon will culminate in the making and flying of giant peace doves in the pastures - a hopeful symbol for peace! Reserve a seat on the bus from Toronto, leaving Yorkdale Subway Station at 10:00AM - roots_shoots@janegoodall.ca - suggested donation $5.00.

If you are on Facebook, please RSVP on the event: www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=118193674087

www.janegoodall.ca/PeaceDay2009.php and http://www.freethechildren.com/


See you then!

Rachelle

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Open House 2009


Happy Tuesday! Finally we have a beautiful sunny day - the past weekend we had a number of determined baseball players in the rain, helping to raise money for the sanctuary. Thanks to Russ, Brittany, Connor, Donna and all those who participated. Special thanks to Larry for organizing this event for the third year in a row!

We are excitedly preparing for the Open House on Saturday, August 15th, 2009 from 12:00PM to 4:00PM - $5.00 per person/$15.00 for a group of four. Please visit our website for a downloadable .pdf flyer to share with friends and family. An event has also been created on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/event.php?eid=135644594250&ref=nf
Highlights will include small group tours to "meet and greet" the monkeys. Prior to the tours, you will have an opportunity to see a presentation about the SBFPS residents - their backgrounds, likes/dislikes and how you can help make a difference in their lives.

Activities will include a jumping castle, games, making enrichment for the monkeys, a garden tour, nature safari, BBQ, jumble sale, bake sale, silent auction, and a great raffle - including a plasma screen tv!

The money raised through the event will be used to provide energy efficient heating for the barn in the winter months. All proceeds go to the care of the primates!
We are counting down the days to welcome you to our sanctuary community ....
Rachelle

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Lexy's New Space





Happy Tuesday! We are happy to share news of the reno's to Lexy's enclosure. On a beautiful Sunday evening, she walked into a new space...literally and figuratively. Jenn, Sherri, Leonard, Paxton, Anne and Shelley built amazing structural enrichment, interesting nooks and crannies, planted trees, made a waterfall, and put their hearts into making a happy place for Lexy. We are so thankful to Dwight for his generosity in providing high quality, macaque-proof coloured plastic wood.

Inside Lexy was such a good girl, even though her access to the outside was blocked. She could hear the banging of construction, and commotion. At times she did pace excitedly, but was good company for me while I was in the kitchen getting supper ready. At one point she even made that little macaque "oooh" sound, asking for a bit of banana.

Outside the gang was working feverishly to get things ready - apparently Rome can be built in a day! Sherri so lovingly put the final touches in - treats in strategic places, nectarine pieces in the pool, toys and enrichment items.

Now, as you may know, Lexy is attached to her dolly - she loves the kind that has a cloth body and vinyl head, arms and legs. She can be so demonstrative in her love, that the dolly mostly is worse for the wear. At this point, only the dolly's head remains. So, the dolly head was placed in the small pine tree for her.

With bated breathe, the door was opened for Lexy....Jenn held her breath, as we all did... how would she react to the new house? After all this girl has been through, she deserves so much - this year she lost her best friend Yoshi, and we have seen changes in her - she is quieter and a bit more anxious. With tears in our eyes, we watched our brave, strong Lexy, coming out - albeit cautiously, looking all around - and the first thing she went to get was her dolly head. So calmly, she took the head and went to one side of the enclosure, sitting up high and checking things out. As you can see in the photos (courtesy of Anne), she was so calm, relaxed, and showed no signs of stress or anxiety....she loved the pool and sat on the edge, with dolly in hand, dipping its head in the water.

There was a contented, peaceful silence... (expect for Leonard calling out to Sammy to get out of the duck pond!) .. as we witnessed Lexy, exploring her new improved world - full of colour, love and hope.....

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Bon Voyage - Our Beautiful Char

Every day we are thankful for the wonderful people who have come into our lives and those of the precious beings in our care. Charmaine is one of those people - a truly beautiful woman inside and out, who has no bounds to her loving and caring heart. An integral part of the team, she works tirelessly for all animals in need: monkeys, donkeys, dogs, cats, and great apes. Her boundless energy makes Sundays at the farm a joy.

Once again, she is off to volunteer at Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre in the Malaysian Sabah District of North Borneo - a rehabilitation centre for orphaned orangutans. This is Char’s third time out there – where she daily cares for the young orangutan infants who have experienced deep loss – of their homes, mothers and families. We will miss her so, but we are so proud of her – our beautiful Char.

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Yoshi

It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of our beloved Yoshi.

Yoshi, and his partner, Kayko (deceased 2006), both Japanese Macaques, were the first two primates who gave Sherri the vision for Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary. While little is known of their lives before the Sanctuary, we believe at one time they had been used in a laboratory due to the scarring on their arms and a tattoo on their legs; both are consistent with laboratory testing. They eventually made their way to Sherri and Leonard’s farm where they lived in peace for the past 10 years. Yoshi’s lasts days were spent surrounded by Sherri, Leonard, and the volunteers who worked tirelessly to keep him comfortable before he gently succumbed to old age. We all have been blessed by his presence in our lives and he is greatly missed by all who have met and loved him.

Rest in peace, my friend.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Happiness is sunshine

Hi everyone! We apologize that it has been awhile since we posted news to our community. With the warmer weather coming, there’s been a flurry of activity to have the enclosures ready – larger and with new structural enrichment. Mickey has her new, old home outside now. We picked up Mickey's cage (it is really like a marmoset condo) from Kimberly. Leonard built it back up outside, so she has indoor and outdoor access. Mickey loves to feel the wind in her hair - you can see it is sensory overload.

The past months have been filled with happiness and sadness, as precious Yoshi physically left us - but we know that he is with us in spirit. We will dedicate an upcoming blog to his memory, so that you can all know his story and what he has meant to the people whose lives he was a part of...

Nan and Chelsea continue to blossom. It is such a thrill for me to see them every weekend and learn their likes and dislikes...for instance, the other day I was cleaning with Sherri, and touched one of Chelsea's many rubber boots. I picked this particular one up and said with a scrunched up nose - "this one looks a bit yucky"...well, Miss Chelsea gave me the baboon raised eyebrow look - which gave me paused and I wondered what had I done...do-uh..I had caused offensive by commenting on the state of her boot! Chelsea and Nan also have a new outdoor area, with ramps that make it easy for sight-impaired Nan to navigate. As Sherri says, Nan sits quietly and takes it all in…

With the nice weather, we have been taking fresh, young shoots off of the big trees, and putting them in the enclosures. The lemurs love to munch on the leaves – they get so excited. We also dig up clumps of grasses and daisies, which Pea and Pierre love.

Julian has come a long, long way. When he first arrived, he was so traumatized, and it manifested itself in frequent self-mutilating behaviours, such as biting and tearing out his hair. We could not even look at him without causing him anxiety - he was our little ghost - as he did not want to be seen. It was a difficult winter, and at times we really wondered if we were doing the right thing and if he could recover from his human-inflicted emotional scars.

Now, as I drive up on Saturdays, and see Julian, or Jules as we call him...he is outside, sitting on the perch, in the sun, with Maggie, one of the dogs, sitting near him (outside the enclosure). He is talking with Lexy and watching Pierre, his baboon neighbour. Just hanging out, watching the world go by - you would not think it is the same macaque. Julian has learnt that he is safe, and that no one will hurt him. He knows we are here for him and together we will heal. A key turning point was a few weeks ago. Shelley and Paxton had made enrichment items for everyone – including fresh cut branches of trees hanging from the mesh overhead along with plastic bottles, filled with lots of green grass and yummy treats. Pierre just ripped his bottle down and started sussing out what was inside. Julian could not seem to get a hold of his, and got frustrated. His first reaction, of stress, what to bite himself, which he started to do. However, he saw the tree branch in his area, paused, and then starting biting that. After a second or two, you could see him getting himself together and tried again for the bottle, which he got. Kim and I were watching this and it was huge to see that he was able to redirect his frustration and anxiety away from himself. Well done Julian!

We are thankful to all the committed volunteers who daily make a difference in the lives of the residents. Amongst them, is the very talented Ann Walsh, one of our regular Sunday volunteers. Her photos of the folks are magical - she really captures their essence and personalities.

Summer 2009 will be a super busy one, with lots of events and outreach happening. Please mark your calendars for August 15th - for our second annual Open House...more details to follow.

Thanks for reading and caring,

Rachelle

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Niagara Action for Animals (NAfA) - Vegan Potluck

The days are flying by, so much is going on...last week we had the privilege of volunteering at Dr. Jane's presentation in Ottawa. As always, Jane was gracious and inspiring!

Speaking of presentations - Sherri will be the guest speaker on May 1st at the Niagara Action for Animals Vegan Potluck: http://www.niagaraactionforanimals.org/events.php

Details:
Friday, May 1, 2009
7:00 PM
Unitarian Congregation of Niagara
223 Church Street (beside Delta Bingo)
St. Catharines, ON

Thank you Kimberly for making this happen! If you are in the Niagara area - we hope to see you there!

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

It's Here! Premiere Edition of Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary's Quarterly Newsletter

Good afternoon! Today was a beautiful spring day - with the promise of sunny days to come! On that note, we are pleased to share with you the premiere edition of our newsletter - Volume 1 Issue 1!

You can download your .pdf version from of our website: http://www.storybookfarmprimatesanctuary.com/_home.asp

Inside you will find updates on our primate residents, details about the new Foster Friends programme, people making a difference and ways you can get involved. Special thanks to Melissa and Ingrid for their hard work; Val for the proofing and Ann Walsh for the beautiful photos of Razzle and Jenkins.

We invite your feedback - please leave a comment or email us at: fishdreamsblue@gmail.com
If you have friends who would like to receive a printed copy, please provide the contact info to the email above.

Take care and enjoy!

Rachelle

Monday, March 16, 2009

Spring is coming....


Happy Monday! The weather is finally turning to spring (we hope!)- the residents on the farm are happy and outside - Julien is enjoying his new outside area, complete with ladders and enrichment. He and Lexy are watching and communicating with each other. Pierre is looking resplendent - he is such a handsome boy!

A recent visitor to the farm, Marna Gale, is the driving force behind - Big on Beagles http://www.bigonbeagles.ca/ - a rescue organization dedicated to providing homes for beagles in need. She also writes a regular column for the Beach Metro. She wanted to feature Story Book Farm in a column, so up she came for a visit....was excitedly welcomed by the canine welcoming committee: Maggie, Sammy, Lady, Charlie and Bosley....(they so sussed out straight away she was one of them....a true dog whisperer)....and we spent a great afternoon with her. If you are in the Beaches neighbourhood...please check out the Beach Metro, March 10, 2009 to read about her visit. Marna, thanks so much for the great write-up. We are happy to have you on the farm anytime!

So many great things are happening and coming up - including Dr. Jane Goodall's 75th birthday - on April 3rd. As part of the celebration, the Jane Goodall Institute is putting together an email card, with a goal of 7500 personal wishes and messages. Please click here to share your personal birthday message with Jane: http://www.janegoodall.org/splash/landing-generic.asp .

For me personally, Dr. Jane has had such a tremendous impact on my life, inspiring to reach out, to help, to make a difference, to hope, to care, to honour and to respect....I still remember when I was a little girl and saw the black and white footage on t.v. of her, out in the forest, living with the chimps - reaching out and touching David Greybeard...it touched something deep, deep down. In 2007 when I was in Cameroon, volunteering in the forest with the orphaned chimpanzees at CWAF, all of those moments and images kept flooding into my heart and head - how we need to reach out - and help change what we see in the world and how we see it. As Jane states: We need to make a difference, one life at a time...humans, and non-humans...something that we strive to do daily.

with appreciation,

Rachelle

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Hello to all!
March has arrived and is off to a busy start. Our Canadian Tire money drive has surpassed the goal of $500.00........WOW. Thanks to every one who sent in. It's greatly appreciated. A couple of honorable mentions though....

Courtney themed her birthday around our primate friends and asked for things to benefit their lives instead of presents for herself. Thanks Courtney!!!!!!!! That was very unselfish and we really appreciate you helping the monkeys.

On Friday, Rachelle, Stacey and I got the opportunity to speak with a couple of classes from Antonia's school. What an intelligent group of students! We were honored to learn that Antonia had worked very hard with her teacher, Ms. Lowes and the other teachers and students of the school. They raised $232.05 in Canadian Tire money !!!!!!!!! THANK YOU!

We have had spring weather here this week and the monkeys have been able to be outside. YEAH!!!!!When Anne arrived today she immediately noticed how happy everyone was....Yes it was noticable. They were all happy and content. What a great day!

We are starting to plan the spring/summer projects around here with our biggest plans of an addition onto the barn of a kitchen/office/ laundry/team member break time area/ slash, slash, slash....oh did I mention office......slash...slash...slash.

For those of you who have never been here, we currently have a prep area of two stainless steel tables and a large walkin fridge that hogs most of the room. We desperately need a larger space in which to work. So we have started to collect building material for the build. We need 2x4's, plywood, insulation, vapour barrier and probably things I cant think of. If anyone can help we would greatly appreciate it.

Ann W. has come on board as a volunteer and new team member. Ann...welcome!

To all you supporters....thanks....I need ya. I couldn't walk this journey without you!
Sherri

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Amber Barrett's Speech

Hi there! Today, we are happy to bring you Amber's speech. Amber is Cam's sister and they both share a love of animals, nutured by their mom Leslie and aunt Jenn!

Amber's Speech

It’s like a fairy tale only it’s real!

The really cool thing is this fairy tale is located only 20 minutes away, in Manilla!

This fairy tale is called Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary.

Story Book Farm is a sanctuary for primates. My mom, aunt and brother volunteer there all the time, working with the animals. If you do not know what primates mean, the best way to tell you is, Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary has over 6 different types of monkeys, so you guessed it - primates means monkeys.

Some monkeys at Story Book Farm are: George, Suzie, Mr. Jenkins, Lexy, Nan, Pierre, Chelsea and the newest Julian, plus they have many more. These monkeys are at the sanctuary for a reason. Some of the reasons are, the monkeys were used for research testing. Some lived with humans and did not get treated very well and some were just old and not fun anymore for their owners.

There are so many different types of primates: like Pierre who is an Olive Baboon and 6 years old; Lexy, who is a Japanese Macaque and 4 years old; Mr. Jenkins who is a black handed spider monkey and 4.5 years old; and George and Suzie who are black spider monkeys. George is 37 and Suzie is 20.

Some people think that monkeys are cute and sweet, and they are, but they are not supposed to be pets or live in the zoo. They should be in the wild not in captivity, even if they do live longer in the zoo that’s just nature and how things are.

Story Book Farm is not just for monkeys. They have dogs, cats, horses, goats, a duck and a goose and other animals. They all have a special reason why they have come to live here and all of them will retire here for the rest of their lives. They have comfortable living spaces that are warm and they get fresh food and treats at suppertime everyday. My Mom and brother prepare the supper for them. It would include lots of fruits and vegetables, bread or cereal, nuts, and a sweet treat like cupcakes. Because some of them were not raised very well in their previous homes, it is okay to give them treats that they will enjoy. The owners of Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary, Sherri & Leonard give them toys and special things to play with to keep them occupied, since living here can be boring at times. For instance, they use fire hose for the monkeys to swing on, soccer balls and electronic toys so the monkeys can hear the sounds and press the buttons. Sometimes they are given their suppers in boxes or paper bags they have to rip open to keep things interesting for them.

Lexy carries around a baby doll and holds it to her like she would a real monkey baby. She seems to enjoy having something to take care of.

Chelsea really likes rubber boots for some reason and will bring it over to show you.

Sweet Pea enjoys grooming old fur coats, as if they were other monkey friends.

Mr. Jenkins is a very silly guy. He was used for a movie once. He was supposed to answer a phone in the movie but he didn’t want to and didn’t cooperate, so they got rid of him. This is how he ended up at the farm. You have to be careful when walking by Jenkins because if he can reach you, he may pull you or pinch you. He doesn’t do this to hurt you, just to play - but it can still hurt.

I have only been to the farm one time and I had a great time touring the barn and learning about each of their personalities. The rest I have learned from my Mom and brother who LOVE going every week. The farm is not open for the public because the animals are not supposed to be on this earth for human’s entertainment. They need to be respected. The monkeys are also not handled and cuddled like you might think. As cute as they are, they need to be treated like the animals they really are and not used for our purposes. They love their home and the workers. They get to be outside. They get to socialize with each other through their cages and their lives have been enriched since coming here. They have very different personalities and some can be mad or bothered at times, just like humans.

As much as we can all learn from this farm and the primates, I want people to know that they should not support the use of any monkeys as pets, in movies, products, roadside zoos, etc. All animals need to be respected and allowed to live their natural lives, not trained to live like humans.

...thanks Amber for sharing with your classmates, the stories of the monkeys...

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Animal Cruelty - A speech by Cam Barrett


Today, we proudly share with our Story Book family, Cam's speech. I am sure you will be moved by his words and passion. Cam is 14 and in Grade 8. He lives and goes to school within City of Kawartha Lakes. Has always had a dog and several cats, has loved animals his whole life and hopes to pursue a career in the animal welfare field.

Animal Cruelty
by Cam Barrett

A dog suffocates to death with its mouth taped shut. A cat dies screaming in a microwave oven. A horse collapses as it is being dragged behind a farm wagon, and is savagely beaten with a slab of wood. A kitten is hurtled to the ground and its skull deliberately stepped on and crushed. Animals are suffering and often there is nothing authorities can do about it. These are some very disturbing and upsetting examples of cruelty to animals. These are some of the more extreme examples, and they are hard to believe - but this type of thing does happen as well as other cruelties to animals. Maybe you have even experienced something like this and wished that there was something that you could do about it.

Mr. Piggot and fellow class mates: animal cruelty laws should be stricter! All animals are defenseless to humans. There should be laws against buying exotic animals. There should be a lifetime ban on animal ownership for former animal abusers. The government should help us move towards achieving these goals. I am a firm believer in helping animals because they cannot help themselves. They are completely at our mercy. They need our help.

There should be laws on buying exotic animals. As of today, the jail time is only a maximum of 6 months no matter what offence to an animal. The fine, however, is even less sufficient. It is only a maximum fine of $2,000 and then the accused are let off the hook. We treat animals as if they are nothing like us, but really they are extremely close in our DNA profiles. The chimpanzee is our closest animal relative. We share 98.4% of our DNA according to the Fauna Foundation. How can we not want to help our closest relatives? …and our pets?

A relatively unknown fact is that you can buy exotic pets. Some wild animals are as easy to acquire, and occasionally as inexpensive, as common pets such as a pure bred dog or cat. But even truly exotic animals, including rare species are available. Did you have any idea that a cougar can be purchased for $1,200? These animals are taken from their comfortable habitat to be raised and taught to perform and model. Most of these animals pose an alarming threat to our health when introduced into society. In 1994, a 16 year old boy died from a broken neck caused by one of his uncle’s Siberian tigers living in his back yard. In 1999, a 71 year old women needed 409 stitches to close the gashes on and around her head from her neighbour’s Eurasian lynx. Judging by these astonishing facts and dreadful outcomes of owning exotic pets, wouldn’t you agree that there should be tougher laws against owning exotic animals?

There should be lifetime bans on ownership of an animal if you are convicted of animal abuse. When convicted, the abuser gets a maximum of 6 months in jail and afterwards is able to continue on mistreating animals. Do you think that if a killer had six months without murdering that they would stop afterwards? If an animal abuser abuses once there is no telling that they will stop. When humans get abused they are lucky enough to be able to get a restraining order but for animals they are in it by themselves, they have no voice. Once you have abused an animal, you no longer deserve the right to own another innocent animal.

We as a society should be asking the government to help us, in this crucial time of need. Throughout time there have always been animals in danger and not many welfare organizations receive any public funding. The government should provide more animal shelters and funding, to go towards animal protection. Did you know that animal cruelty laws have not changed since 1982? There are many different forms of animal cruelty -many are over looked by most individuals. Some forms are roadside zoos. These are sometimes visited and viewed as a tourist attraction but really they are like animal penitentiaries - they are taken from the wild to be a source of entertainment. We as a society need to look at these issues and make changes, making animals more of a priority.

Our past and present society seems to think because animals are defense less to us its OK to mistreat animals with little or no consequences. So next time you witness an act of cruelty stop and think… HOW WOULD YOU LIKE IT?
...thank you so much Cam for bringing these difficult issues to your class.
...we all thank you for being such a caring, wonderful friend to the monkeys and animals at the sanctuary.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Interview with Sherri Delaney on Animal Voices

Recently, Lauren Corman, interview Sherri Delaney on the program Animal Voices. Thanks Lauren for giving Sherri the opportunity to talk about the important work of the sanctuary, and the daily happenings and routine on the farm! Please visit and take a listen to: http://www.animalvoices.ca/shows/sherri_delaney

Cheers,

Rachelle

Monday, February 9, 2009

Canadian Tire Money Drive - Now at $193.00!

Happy Monday everyone! Hope that you got out and enjoyed the spring-like weather. It has been a tough winter, especially on the farm - loads of snow and ice.

We are at 38% of our goal of $500.00 in Canadian Tire Money! It is amazing how those little bits and bobs have added up....We thank each person who has contributed to the drive including- Robert, Diane, Heidi, Christine and friends, Paul, Mark, Erika and staff, and Barbara. So, can you help us for the push of $307.00? We are thrilled that many teachers and students have taken this appeal to their schools and classrooms. Please email me at fishdreamsblue@gmail.com for an electronic copy of the flyer.

We wanted to thank some very extraordinary young people who have shown their commitment and compassion for our residents: Cam, Amber, Sam and Antonia. Whether coming up weekly (and sometimes a few times a week) or speaking out on behalf of the animals, these young people are making a huge difference in the lives of the monkeys. As volunteers, they help with the chores in the barn, preparing dinners, enrichment, and are always thinking about ways to help. I had the pleasure of working with Sam and Antonia (and Mom - Anne) yesterday, and am touched by their gentleness and caring - the shine in Antonia's eyes as she watched Koo-Koo sitting proudly on Coco Puff's eggs (Yes, Koo-Koo's new companion is a little girl (not a male, as Sherri was told) - surprise - so now we have two happy, laughing doves - Koo-Koo and Coco Puff and two tiny eggs. Sam thoughtfully sat at the kitchen table designing a "condo" for George and Suzie...

Recently, Cam and Amber, the son and daughter of Leslie, (an awesome volunteer) took the opportunity through speeches in their classes to raise awareness about Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary and about the issue of Animal Cruelty. Over the next posts, we will share their speeches with you and ask that you read them and carefully consider the thoughts and care contained in them. Thank you Amber and Cam!

Many young people have come to the farm, and it is touching and inspirational to see young ones take hold and allow kindness and compassion to shine in them and to share that with others. Thank you guys...you are the future and you keep us veterans fighting because we believe that tomorrow will be a better day because we see a glimpse of it in your hearts today...

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Wheeeew! I have finally managed to steal away a bit of time so that I can update everyone on the activity here at the sanctuary......Hello!

All the the animals are getting through the winter just fine but I suspect the monkeys would rather be outside. The humans though, are a little tired of the snow, this human in particular!

Sweat Pea was a lucky girl a couple of weeks ago when Rachelle and Kim arrived with several bright coloured faux fur ladies vests that they had found on sale. We gave Pea the choice on which coloured vest she wanted....She picked the dark green one. However, she had a second thought when we put the red one back in the bag for another time......she had decided she wanted that one too! She spent hours grooming her new vest and sleeps with it to this day. What a nice treat for Sweet Pea. Thank-you.

Mickey has settled in beautifully! She is such a sweet little girl and I have to say what a pleasure it is to be with a well rounded happy primate. She had a good life before coming to the sanctuary and it shows! She came here to be with Pablo and Amigo. They are all very content now. Life for them is good.

We have a new Foster Friends program in the works. Its very exciting! Friends of the monkeys can become a Foster Friend to one of the monkeys living at the sanctuary. Becoming a Foster Friend intitles you to certain privledges, a Foster Friend certificate and information on the foster friend you are helping. We hope this new program not only helps the monkeys but helps people learn about the monkeys and the plight they face.

Meet our special friend.
Caitlin is our first Foster Friend. HELLO CAITLIN...and THANK-YOU! Caitlin was so amazed by the Lemurs, Razzle, Kye and Kizmit. Caitlin became a Foster Friend to Razzle after learning her story. We were thrilled. Several weeks went by after Caitlin became Razzle's friend and I recieved another call from Dave, he told me that Caitlin wanted something special for her birthday....she wanted to help the rest of the family, Kye and Kizmit. Caitlin became a Foster Friend to them too! Thanks for thinking of them Caitlin, you're very special. We appreciate your help and............................. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!

Monday, January 19, 2009

Canadian Tire Money Drive - Can you help us raise $500?

Happy Monday! We hope you survived the snow storm this weekend.

Exciting news - we are launching a Canadian Tire Money Drive - with the goal of raising $500.00 by March 1st! Every day we work to ensure a loving, safe and honouring environment - which requires regular maintenance to the barn. There is always a need of tools and supplies.

Can you help?

With the Christmas season just passed, you may have Canadian Tire Money from the gifts purchased. Not a handy man? Do not know what to do with those colourful bills? We ask that you donate them to the sanctuary - all those little amounts of $.05; $.10 will add up! So please share this drive appeal with your friends, family, fellow students at school, co-workers, church members, neighbours and teachers.

This would be a great project for your school, scout groups, and social groups - We will keep you informed of the progress!


Canadian Tire Money Donations can be made by post to:
Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary
2315 Concession 10, RR#3
Sunderland, Ontario, Canada
L0C 1H0
Attn: Canadian Tire Money Drive

If you are in the city, I would be happy to coordinate a collection point.

On behalf of Jenkins, Razzle, Kye, Kizmet, Rosie, Komoto, Amigo, Pablo, Sweet Pea, Yoshi, Lexy, Julian, Pierre, Smokey, Bandit and Keanu, and all the other "little people" we thank you so much!

Rachelle

Monday, January 12, 2009

Happy New Year!

Good afternoon! We hope you and your family enjoyed the holidays. Here we are going into the second week of 2009. We are looking forward to working with you to make this year an outstanding year for primates here in Ontario and to bring forth their experiences. It is hard some days to get my head around the fact that exotic animals are traded and auctioned off legally here in the province. For example, lemurs are sold in pet stores - which I have now seen for myself. Please join us: become involved; volunteer; educate and take action for primates!

It has been super busy at the sanctuary! Freddy and Duck have a new area, as does Jenkins. Mickey, the beautiful marmoset is keeping Amigo and Pablo (the marmoset boys) on their toes. She had her first meal of crickets - which she loved, but she was not too thrilled with meal worms in her supper! She is very particular in her space and loves to chatter in on conversations. A cute little story - one of the Christmas gifts received was a ceramic wall hanging with three chimpanzees on it. Sherri hung it by the volunteer board in the barn, which is alongside Mickey's area - she was not too pleased about that and kept chattering at Sherri and the ceramic chimps. So Sherri moved it along the other wall, but Mickey could still see it - chattering again, so it had to be hung in the other room.

The wonderful Taylor came up on Saturday - an activist for years, his spirit and compassion are inspirational. Yoshi enjoyed quiet time with Sherri and Taylor, which is such a treat.

While cleaning on Saturday, I had an educational interaction with Pablo and Amigo. As part of their enrichment, they get a treat of crickets tucked into the compartments of an egg carton. While cleaning the floor, I popped the used egg carton on their ledge to get it off the floor and to put it for recycling - next thing you know, they came down - all excited and chirping – “yummy crickets are here”. Alas, there were no yummy crickets...the boys were taken aback and chattered at me, especially Pablo - "Where are they? Aren't they here? Did you hide them?" I had to open the carton and show them that it was empty, but Pablo really had to be convinced. 'Lo and behold there was a cricket shell in the carton. He grabbed it in his right hand, bit it and then looked at me in shock- this was not fresh! How dare I? He flipped the past-due cricket out of his hand and told me what he thought all about that! Every moment I am amazed by these precious beings and how effectively they communicate. Lesson learned here - do not touch the egg carton!