As avid CSNW blog readers know well, most veterinary procedures for chimpanzees are traditionally carried out while they are under anesthesia, and we don’t like do anesthetize any more than we have to. So we, along with many of our colleagues, try to find ways for chimps to willingly cooperate in their own care. That can take the form of positive reinforcement training, the use of specialized devices for diagnostics and treatment, or, in some cases, both. Take a peek at our team snapping some x-rays of Rayne’s finger in an effort to rule out a fracture and direct the course of treatment.
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I love how when everyone knows that PRT is taking place, there will be treats!
JB, were you actually able to get her to swallow tablets for the inflammation? or was that chewing gum?
That was just gum. With anti-inflammatories, we are able to crush them and mix them in a drink. A few chimps have been taught to swallow tablets, in cases where they needed to frequently take meds with a taste that couldn’t be covered up in a drink. I imagine it would be a difficult behavior to train!
What a wonderful example of Positive Reinforcement Training on the part of chimps and staff. I’m glad everything looked OK on the x-ray. I loved the good luck dance. Rayne’s friends and family were there out of curiosity and support. We know chimps learn by observing, so they will all know what to expect if one of them needs an x-ray.
I am very impressed with how far PRT has come.
Rayne is such a good girl. I find it very interesting to watch them willingly participate in their care. Practice makes perfect! I’m glad her finger was not fractured.
Thank you for taking such good care of Miss Raynie. The expert choreography of the Good Luck Dance effected a miracle cure! Now she wiil be able to hold hands with Willy B down by the Gatorade tub.
Such a brave and smart girl, that Rayne! Next time I have a medical procedure, I’m going to try that dance…:slight_smile:
That was so cool to watch.
Its great that they can take a part in their own care.
It really seems like they understand whats going on and they’re good with it.
Whew, what a relief Rayne’s finger isn’t fractured. She’s made her PRT Xray look like fun! Rayne was a perfect patient because she has the benefit of her excellent caregiver training, and she gets a Good Luck dance! Who wouldn’t do what the technician wants after that?!
Thanks for ensuring the chimps are well prepared for medical care assistance because you just never know.
PRT and cooperation for the WIN ! Truely amazing. Go team Rayne!
Thank you for being so gentle to smart girl Raynee!