1. United States
2. La.
3. Letter

Keeping nonhuman primates as "pets" is an inhumane and dangerous practice that must be prohibited. These highly intelligent and socially complex animals cannot thrive in isolation or have their needs met in a residential setting. They require vast natural habitats and intricate family structures to flourish. When confined as "pets," primates suffer immensely from deprivation of their physical and psychological needs. Beyond the cruelty inflicted on these animals, private primate possession poses serious risks to public safety. Primates are unpredictable and can act aggressively, resulting in hundreds of injuries to people over the past few decades. Tragic incidents like the chimpanzee attack that severely disfigured a Connecticut woman underscore the grave dangers of keeping these powerful wild animals in homes. The Captive Primate Safety Act is a much-needed federal measure to prohibit the private possession and interstate trafficking of primates for the cruel "pet" trade. By supporting this act, we can prevent further suffering of these intelligent beings and protect communities from the inevitable dangers associated with private primate ownership. I urge you to co-sponsor this crucial legislation to uphold animal welfare and public safety standards.