Veterinary Exchanges
GHI’s veterinary exchange program is built upon a simple principle: the best way to elevate gibbon health care is to connect the people doing the work on-the-ground. By bringing gibbon veterinarians, caretakers, and rehabilitators into each other's facilities, we create unique and valuable opportunities for hands-on learning that no webinar or textbook can replicate. Each exchange strengthens local expertise, develops lasting professional relationships, and moves our entire collective network toward higher standards of care.
Javan Primate Rehabilitation Center ( JPRC)
Dr. Joytu Kumar (Creative Conservation Alliance, Bangladesh) and Cris Armengol (Gibbon Conservation Society, Malaysia) spent 5 days at JPRC in February, gaining hands-on experience in nutrition planning, behavioral conditioning, development and implementation of quarantine protocols, and infant primate care. Both gave talks and engaged in knowledge-sharing that sparked plans for future exchanges.
Dr. Joytu Kumar (left) and Cris Armengol (right) visit the Javan Primate Rehabilitation Center for hands-on training and a knowledge exchange.
Betsida Ch. Marak, manager and school director at the HURO Programme in India, completed a 2-week exchange at JPRC in January. Betsida has years of experience in community-based conservation protecting the critically endangered western hoolock gibbon. She was also recently honored with the Green Guru Award at the Balipara Foundation Awards for her pioneering work in wildlife rescue and environmental education.
Sumatra Rescue Alliance (SRA) Site Assessment
Dr. Ida Masnur recently conducted a 4-day veterinary assessment at the Sumatra Rescue Alliance (SRA) facility, which houses 22 gibbons. During her site visit, she evaluated enclosure conditions, provided clinical guidance on active medical cases, and established ongoing communication with the SRA veterinary team.
Drh. Ida Masnur (middle) of the Javan Primate Rehabilitation Center (JPRC) visits the Sumatran Rescue Alliance rehabilitation facilities.