I have to admit I was starting to wonder how this was going to work.
After unloading George’s crate and transferring him into the building, I really didn’t see much of him due to our strict quarantine procedures, which made it difficult to pop in and out to say hi while still getting other things done. But when I did see him, he would scream bloody murder and seek reassurance from another person in the room. My presence was exciting, to say the least. How would I be a part of his caregiving team if he was going to be so unsettled by my presence?
It makes more sense now that we’ve been told that he would often react that way to tall men.
Thankfully George has realized that, despite my height, I’m not very intimidating. And today he decided that he would officially consider me an honorary shorter person. It feels good to be pals with George.
Transitions like this are hard for chimpanzees but George is making great strides. From my perspective, it’s like I’m getting to meet a new George every day. He’s funny, confident, and playful. He’s a very gentle groomer. And his food puzzle skills are…going to need some work. But we’ve got plenty of time for that.
It was funny hearing your breathy pants on chipmunk speed, JB!:sweat_smile:
George seems to learn quickly. He’s nesting already, right? The others will have him tying knots in no time!
Like Bubba, he has interesting food squeaks! His are almost 2 syllables! I’m glad he’s warming up to (at least some) vegetables!
Thank you for the update!
He’s already going up the stairs in the chute, instead of climbing up by the mesh!
(Also, good to see my Foxie friend leading morning patrol!)
so happy that he is getting the care he dexerves! thank you!!!!
As always, thanks for the George updates. I’m so incredibly happy for him. He was in a horrible place for a long time.
Fantastic update on George, which makes me happy. On another note, as far as I can tell, the wildfire currently burning to the east of Cle Elum is not too close to the sanctuary. I hope you are not getting any smoke.
Tall, short, or in between, the way I see it, George couldn’t have a better friend and teacher than you. What a joy to see George playing chase and going out to chute. (And what a workout for you!)
And those food squeaks! The best!!! George sounds like a dog squeaky toy! He is simply marvelous.
It seems so challenging to be on your own for so long and then you are moved to a new a place. However, I think he’s figuring out that this new place is pretty incredible!
Beautiful video clips and seeing George eagerly awaiting his smoothy (lovingly prepared before his very eyes no less) and those fingers tapping like he couldn’t wait to grab the goodies. He is truly amazing.I can only imagine his fear of those tall and cruel men in his past life. in you J.B. George has found a gentle giant.Thanks for sharing gorgeous George’s progress with us all:sparkling_heart:.
I just love little George more everyday. He is so happy with the great food in this place !
And it looks like his training program for JB and his stick work is coming along nicely.:upside_down:
So happy to see George enjoying life at CSNW! It breaks my heart to think about what he’s been through. I am so glad all of that is behind him now.
As for his food puzzle skills, I recall that Mr. B was also not particularly adept at them when he first arrived?! I think George will get there!
Great to see that you two are becoming friends J.B., that must be reasuring for you too.
Can you tell us about the living arrangements at the moment? Are the 9 together again?
And for George; I am convinced he has Dutch ancestery:
I could defenitely hear him say :”Lekker, lekker”, (which means good, good in Dutch!) while eating his yam!!
We made the decision to pull Willy’s group (with Mave and Honey B) from Cy’s group several months ago due to ongoing tension. Dora and others have the ability to move between groups.
He is such a sweet boy! Thank you so much for sharing this special video of his new found joy in smoothies and new foods AND he gets to play as well. He’s really blossoming in such a short time with such wonderful, loving care. Well done to everyone.
George is a real cutie pie. I can’t wait to get to know him better. I’m glad to see that he has a good appetite. Thank you so much for giving him a home there and a chance at a good life!!!!
Oh JB. I can’t imagine how you must’ve felt being the source of strife for George. I mean goodness, you’ve dedicated your life to their physical and emotional care! I’m soooo happy you quickly earned his trust. Of course we all knew you would. ‘cuz you’re you 🙂
George has captured my heart! What a sweetie.
JB, wekcome to the short people club. Glad to have you. I think it shows a lot of intelligence and discernment on George’s behalf that he realized you are a separate individual from those that must have harmed him. Good for you and good for George. His life is being enriched every single day at CSNW.