German Family Fed Monkey On Sausages And Beer

Story ByMaja Mishevksa, Sub EditorMarija StojkoskaAgencyNewsflash

This tiny monkey kept in a birdcage and fed sausages and beer by its owners in Germany has been rescued by the animal rights group PETA.

The marmoset, a New World monkey species, was purchased on the internet by a family from the German city of Cologne as a pet for their son.

However, the cute monkey, named Gucci, did not enjoy a glamorous life as its name might suggest, and instead was kept in a cramped birdcage.

PETA Deutschland e.V./Newsflash

Unaware that the primate requires open space and social interaction with other animals, the family reportedly also had no idea about its diet, and fed it on a diet of sausages washed down by beer.

The parents bought the small monkey for EUR 1,200 (GBP 1,070) and planned to resell it for EUR 800 (GBP 712) when their son lost interest in it.

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) members saw the advert online and were shocked by the photos showing that the marmoset was being kept in a birdcage.

PETA Deutschland e.V./Newsflash

PETA activists visited the family home undercover and confirmed that the monkey was being kept in poor conditions.

They claimed that the owner was even feeding the animal cornflakes in their presence.

The PETA members revealed themselves and offered to take the monkey to a suitable animal centre. However, the family refused and insisted on reselling the monkey.

PETA Deutschland e.V./Newsflash

Gucci was soon confiscated from the family and brought to a nearby animal park for its own protection.

Vets said the monkey suffered from intestinal parasites and was very nervous.

It took several weeks for Gucci to move into its new home, and he is now socialising well with the centre’s other monkeys.

PETA Deutschland e.V./Newsflash

PETA spokesperson Jana Hoger told Newsflash: “Gucci’s story is not a unique case, the trade of exotic animals is sadly very widespread also in Germany, although exotic animals such as monkeys, snakes, and tigers can never be kept in a suitable way in private living rooms in people’s homes.

“Susceptible creatures of all kinds are sold to anyone via internet portals.

“Animals are not a commodity.”

PETA Deutschland e.V./Newsflash

Hoger added: “The sale and private ownership of exotic animals must be banned in Germany.”

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