Do you dream of
adopting a monkey
, just like a dog or a cat?
What does French law say?
Are there any dangers to your health and that of the primates?
Here is all you need to know.
Can we adopt a monkey in France?
Above all, remember that the monkey is not a domestic animal.
These animals, which belong to the order of primates, are notably protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Cites).
In France, they are also classified as "dangerous species" by the decree of November 21, 1997.
Intelligent and active, monkeys are not made for domestication and can suffer from stress or boredom.
Optimal conditions (particularly in terms of natural habitat), a balanced diet, mental stimulation and appropriate medical care are essential.
Finally, be aware that monkeys can transmit zoonoses (infectious diseases passing from animals to humans) such as tuberculosis, rabies or even candidiasis.
Legislation prohibits individuals from adopting a monkey, except in the very specific case of obtaining a certificate of capacity from the prefecture.
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How to obtain a certificate of competence?
Unlike cats, dogs or ferrets, monkeys are considered non-domestic animals.
Their detention in captivity is subject to authorization and certificate of capacity.
The decree of October 8, 2018 sets the general rules for keeping animals of non-domestic species.
First, you must contact the Direction Départementale de la Protection des Populations of the prefecture of your department.
Your contact will inform you of the conditions to be met in order to receive an authorisation.
You will then need to submit a request specifying your name and address as well as the type of general or special qualification you want.
To
obtain a certificate of competence
, you will have to show your ability to take care of primates.
A thorough knowledge of their physiological and biological needs is required.
A one-month training with an organization approved by the prefecture must therefore be carried out.
Specialized schools train you in the field and then support you in writing your file and preparing for the oral presentation before the departmental or national commission (article 3 of the decree).
In particular, you will be asked about regulatory knowledge and the conditions for holding cash.
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What is symbolic monkey adoption?
An alternative to adopting a monkey is… symbolic adoption.
Several associations such as the Fauna Foundation and the WWF (World Wildlife Fund) offer such a program.
This is a strong commitment that makes it possible to make a lasting contribution to the projects carried out for the survival of the chosen species.
In the case of the Fauna Foundation, which is a protected sanctuary, you will be able to choose the animal that you will symbolically adopt.
Then you will receive a photo of the monkey, a copy of his biography and regular news.
In short, you give a second life to monkeys used in biomedical research or from farms where they were neglected or abused.