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Maddie Monday! 👑✨️

As you can see,Maddie had a great week! Her appetite is back, her stools are finally formed, she's been much more active, and she's even gained weight while maintaining it steadily. Overall just acting more and more like a monkey her age 💕

It's been so wonderful to watch Maddie's personality shine through as she starts feeling healthier again. Seeing her play, explore, and enjoy having more energy has made us incredibly happy, even with the gloomy, rainy weather we've been having lately.

Through it all, her bond with Buffy has only continued to grow stronger 🥹

While Maddie still has a little way to go and will need to remain on treatment for some time yet, we want to make absolutely sure this flare-up is truly behind her before celebrating too soon. But every day she's showing us more of the cheeky, happy monkey she's meant to be.

We honestly can't wait for the day she's healthy enough to be in Buffy's arms where she belongs ❤️

#stronger #babymonkey #southafrica #volunteer #rehabilitation

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Friday Favourites - Pedro 🌟

This week’s favourite comes from Josie, our Director, who specialises in the special care and rehabilitation of the monkeys, as well as overseeing their diets and long-term welfare. Her choice is a monkey who has been part of her journey for over 20 years… Pedro 💙

“Pedro arrived at the foundation in 2005 after his mum was shot. He was only a few days old and one of the very first orphans I cared for as a volunteer. Looking after him sparked a passion that would change my life. As a baby, we used to call him ‘the handbag’ because he was always clinging to your arm.

Over the years, Pedro has lived in a few different groups, but seeing him now in Holt & Barrington troop still makes my heart melt. He’s often the first one at the fence and has always been protective of the babies. Even now, at nearly 21 years old, you’ll usually find him along the fence line, keeping an eye on things and mostly staying out of trouble.

Pedro is starting to show his age a little, but he’s still active and enjoying life. Watching him grow from a tiny orphan into one of the troop’s older gentlemen has been incredibly special. Every time I see him, I’m reminded why I’m here and why these monkeys mean so much to me.”

Pedro’s story is intertwined with Josie’s own journey at the foundation. From a tiny orphan who clung to her arm, to a respected older member of Holt & Barrington troop, he remains a daily reminder of just how much a second chance can mean 💕

A huge thank you to Josie for dedicating over 20 years of her life to the monkeys of VMF. The care, knowledge and passion she brings every day have helped give countless monkeys like Pedro the chance to grow up safe, loved and surrounded by family 🫶

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Curious Observer 💚

The wild troop babies are becoming more independent, adventurous and curious. Whether you’re carrying food, collecting bottles or simply walking by, there’s often a tiny face peeking through the leaves keeping a close eye on what you’re doing.

This little one was carefully watching from the trees above, making sure not to miss a thing 🌳

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Maddie Monday 👑

It’s Monday, which means it’s time for another Maddie update. 

Last week, Maddie headed back to the vets after a flare-up left us all feeling a little worried. She had been losing weight quickly and spending most of her time curled up on hot water bottles rather than causing mischief.

The good news is that Josie and the vets came up with a new treatment plan, and so far we’re seeing some positive signs. Maddie has gained a little weight and her appetite is improving, although she’s still a long way from where we’d like her to be.

As always with Maddie, there are good days and tougher days. Sometimes we catch glimpses of the cheeky, playful monkey she should be, climbing around and showing more interest in the world around her. Other times, she still prefers the comfort of a warm cuddle and a quiet nap.

We’re taking every small win as it comes and hoping this new treatment plan continues to help strengthen Maddie 💪

Keep fighting, Mads. We’re all rooting for you 💕

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Charity Registration outside of South Africa Vervet Monkey Foundation UK: 1215564 Friends of Vervet Monkey Foundation USA: 86-2117021