Being a chimpanzee caregiver is exhausting, both physically, mentally, and emotionally. There are many evenings, where after a day at work, I feel like I have nothing more to give, so I engage in some form of self-care, have some dinner, and go to bed. However, with any hard day as a chimpanzee caregiver, there are also 100+ positive, happy ones. Any time I’m feeling fatigued or exhausted, a quiet or fun moment with any of the chimps is enough to fill my hypothetical “tank” right back up.
I’m so grateful to work with chimps. Every day I work, it reinforces the reason why I chose to work with chimps in the first place. Because they are fun. Every day is something new. I love that.
You know those bumper stickers that say, “My rescue dog saved me” or “Who saved who?” with a paw-print next to it? While us caregivers pour our heart and soul into this job, I feel like it is important to note how much the chimps give us too.
Photos from today!
Burrito:
Foxie:
Missy (and toothpick):
Honey B:
From experience, Jenna, I’ll say that any job that isn’t the same day twice is not all bad.
Oh, Mr B, your legs look so skinny! Eat more chow!
And you pass along to us what joy you’ve had that day. Thank you!
Very soon, we are entering the dog days of summer…………..Plan extra breaks, more water, a hug or two shared with co-workers………I am great at giving advice—–but, your concerns are a serious issue with most hard working folks….
I will leave my northwest door open a few hours a day—-just to share my air conditioning…..
Speaking as someone who has worked with shelters/rescues for 26 years, I agree with what you say 100%! Even after bearing witness to horrible cruelty and suffering, seeing the worst of what humanity can dish up, and, on certain days, feeling helpless or hopeless, I wouldn’t trade a minute of my time spent with the animals. Like eve, there is never a sliver of doubt that they save me. And they teach me, as do the chimps at Chimpanzee Sanctuary NW. I am always aware that I am the one who gets to close the door behind me, and go HOME, an incredible privilege that animals in shelters do not have. Much like the chimpanzees in a sanctuary.
Your situation is clearly entirely different from a shelter/rescue, of course. It must be humbling to do what you do. I have such respect for what you do. You caregivers save me too!
Burrito’s joyfulness, Foxie’s enchantment with her dolls, Missy’s extreme athleticism, and Honey B’s brilliant curious mind, must be soothing balms that help to simmer and soothe your stress and hold you up throughout the day. Never underestimate the power of compassion and laughter and love! And please, never forget how appreciated you are!