As many of you know, my baby spider monkey, Abu, was taken from me under circumstances that I believe were deeply unjust. While on my daily walk in the neighborhood, Abu gave a small nip to a police officer who came too close. The Pelican Bay Police Department assured me at the time that Abu would only need to complete a 10-day quarantine, free of charge, and that as long as he showed no signs of rabies, he would be returned to me. Wanting to comply with the city’s request, I agreed in good faith. 

But the moment they took him, everything changed. I was told instead that Abu would be held for 30 days, that I would be responsible for all costs, and that he would never be returned to me. They placed him at a rescue that does not specialize in primates, and when I begged for him to be transferred to Funky Monkey Ranch—a USDA-licensed primate sanctuary with proper facilities and experienced care—I was met with resistance. At one point, the sergeant even threatened to euthanize him.

In desperation, I agreed to surrender my rights if it meant Abu could safely go to Funky Monkey Ranch. I trusted that this was the only way to protect him. But once again, I was deceived. The police department and the rescue have refused to provide me with a bill, and I’ve since learned that Abu is being kept in a Macaw cage, subjected to unnecessary tests, and treated as leverage rather than a living, innocent being.

This entire situation has caused me deep pain. Abu is not just an animal—he is family. He deserves compassion, proper care, and the chance to live at a sanctuary where his needs will be respected. Funky Monkey Ranch is fully prepared to take him in, and its owner is a kind and experienced caregiver who has dedicated her life to primates.

All I want is for Abu to be transferred there, where he can finally be safe, loved, and understood. I am asking for your help in raising awareness, standing against the threats made toward him, and ensuring he is given the fair chance he deserves. No family should ever have to experience what I have—being misled, threatened, and watching a beloved companion suffer in unsuitable conditions.

Abu’s life matters. His story matters. And with your support, I believe we can make sure justice is done and that Abu is given the safe future he deserves.