citation_inspection: 14776

“Nigida," a 26 year old male chimpanzee, was injured on 12-09-18. A review of medical records indicated that he had an open fracture of the toe with bone exposure, pain, clear signs of infection, and he was observed chewing at the bone. The medical records indicated the “toe was dangling” and a veterinarian did not see the animal until 12-11-18. On 12-11-18, the veterinarian stated that the toe would likely “come off on its own.” Intermittent antibiotics and pain meds were given, but no further treatments were administered. The medical records indicated that as late as 1-4-19 the wound “reopened” and had still not healed. Failure to provide adequate veterinary care for wounds can lead to unnecessary pain, infection, and/or prolonged healing of wounds. Review of medical records, meeting records, and other communications demonstrate a lack of adequate veterinary care for a 13 year old female chimpanzee named "Tiffany." Tiffany arrived at the facility on April 18th, 2018. The medical records repeatedly documented anorexia (lack of interest in food, not eating enough chow, and/or not eating enough calories) for over three months from 4/18/2018-7/28/2018. No diagnostics were done during that time period, and no treatments were given prior to 6/26/18 except for one dose of an anti-anxiety medication on 4/23/18. Tiffany was sedated for diagnostics on 7/28/19 when the veterinarian documented a concern regarding Tiffany’s condition. The animal was euthanized on 8/19/2018 after continued anorexia and intermittent vomiting and diarrhea. Limited veterinary involvement and failure to use appropriate methods to prevent, control, diagnose, and treat Tiffany’s condition demonstrates a failure to maintain a program of adequate veterinary care. Each exhibitor shall establish and maintain programs of adequate veterinary care that include the use of appropriate methods to prevent, control, diagnose, and treat diseases and injuries, and the availability of emergency care. Correct from this day forward.