Social enhancement for adult nonhuman primates in research laboratories: A review (2000)

Reinhardt, V., Reinhardt, A.

Abstract

Comprehensive review of well-tested options to address the social needs of adult nonhuman primates in accordance with the stipulations set forth in the Animal Welfare Act. The published information available does not substantiate the frequently expressed notions that pair formation is associated with undue risks for the animals; that pair-housed animals require more medical attention than single-housed animals, that subordinate partners of compatible pairs experience social distress; and that long-term housing with the same companion may lead to boredom. .. The intelligence of NHPs provides a special opportunity to expand the dimension of the social enhancement plan by allowing the animals to exercise some control over a very critical element of their immediate environment - interactions with care personnel. Many primates can learn to interact with a caretaker in a cooperative, rather than passive, manner. This potential should make it an imperative to teach them simple tasks, such as actively presenting a body part for injection or blood collection.