Last week,
43 female rhesus macaque monkeys that belonged to a lab in South Carolina took their fate into their own hands and escaped the facility. According to authorities, the monkeys were
spotted "exhibiting calm and playful behavior" during their first taste of freedom in their entire lives.
But unfortunately, their lab owner – Alpha Genesis – began
rounding them up and bringing them back to captivity.Sign the petition to ask that Alpha Genesis give these monkeys a second chance at life at a sanctuary!These sweet monkeys, all just 6 or 7 pounds, have never actually been tested on by Alpha Genesis, since they are still fairly small and young.
It is heartbreaking to think that they almost entirely escaped a life of captivity and experimentation just to be pulled back in.The CEO of Alpha Genesis himself described the monkeys as "being goofy" as they ran around outside of the facility from which they escaped. How can he see the joy that freedom is bringing these animals and willingly take it from them?
Although there is no legal requirement for Alpha Genesis to surrender these monkeys to a happier, healthier life at a sanctuary, there is public sentiment. If we come together and ask that this company do what is right, and not rip freedom away from animals that have already experienced it, they might listen to our voices!
We've seen it before; there is a precedent. For example, when a farm animal escapes from a transport truck, they are often recovered by animal rescues or sanctuaries who are called to the scene by good samaritans. Then, instead of risking the bad publicity and public outcry, the owners of the livestock will allow them to stay at the sanctuary. Public pressure can be used to save these animals!
That's why we're asking that you join us and sign the petition asking that these 43 sweet monkeys be released to a sanctuary where they belong!