Tessa is a four-year-old diabetic brown capuchin who was near death when her ‘owner’ contacted Jungle Friends. Type 2 diabetes in ‘pet’ monkeys is caused by a poor diet, stress and inactivity. Before her diabetes was diagnosed, Tessa’s glucose had skyrocketed to 1120; she had lost weight and was difficult to wake. It was a race to get her glucose under control in time to save her life. Kari coached Tessa’s ‘owner’ through the intensive process of establishing an insulin regimen and monitoring her progress. With insulin and a healthy diet, Tessa gained weight and was well enough to make the journey to Jungle Friends.

Tessa arrived on April 28th with her ‘owner’ who planned to stay until Tessa was settled in, her diabetes under control and her insulin regulated. This is our preferred method of acclimating new arrivals; the presence of their familiar humans eases the transition to a new environment. This is especially important for diabetics, since stress will raise glucose levels.

Tessa was responding so well, we thought it would be clear sailing to get this young monkey restored to health and settled in her new home. But Tessa was in for another huge setback. Now that Tessa was at a sanctuary, her ‘owner’ decided to leave after only three days! Tessa was devastated. Fortunately for Tessa, Jungle Friends has a dedicated and compassionate carestaff who watched over her night and day. We got Tessa weaned off insulin, weaned off humans and playing with the other monkeys! Her sunken eyes now shine bright. Tessa is having the time of her life at Jungle Friends romping and wrestling with other youngsters that call Jungle Friends home.