Capuchin care book by Michelle Henrico

So You Think You Want a Capuchin as a Pet?

An honest introduction to capuchin monkey behaviour, nutrition, enrichment and the lifelong responsibilities that prospective and existing owners need to understand.

Cover of So You Think You Want a Capuchin as a Pet? by Michelle Henrico

Featured education book

Understand the reality before buying a capuchin monkey

In support of CESH Sanctuary, Michelle wrote this book to provide realistic information for people considering getting a Capuchin and to offer valuable guidance to people who already own one. The goal is simple: replace myths with honest education, and prevent more capuchins from ending up in sanctuary care.

This guide covers the hard truths people are often not told clearly: nutrition, enclosure and enrichment, behaviour, discipline, aggression, maturity, medical needs and the lifelong responsibility of primate ownership.

The book raises awareness of CESH NPO and the long-term care needs of rescued capuchins. Please check retailer pricing and availability on the retailer’s website.

Available through Amazon and Takealot. Choose your preferred retailer below; purchases are completed on the retailer’s website.

Practical education

What will you learn before bringing a capuchin into your life?

The book introduces realistic considerations behind the appealing baby stage. These are educational starting points, not a substitute for the full guide or advice from an experienced primate veterinarian.

Capuchin behaviour & maturity

Learn why a young capuchin’s behaviour may change with age, and why territorial instincts and complex social needs are important.

Understand behaviour →

Enclosures & enrichment

Discover why movement, foraging and suitably secure spaces are everyday welfare priorities rather than optional extras.

Explore welfare needs →

Food, health & lifelong planning

Think beyond the initial purchase: appropriate diets, specialist veterinary access, daily routines and care arrangements for decades.

Read the pre-purchase guide →

Get the full guide

Ready to learn more? Choose your retailer.

Michelle Henrico’s So You Think You Want a Capuchin as a Pet? helps you ask better questions and make an informed decision.

Buy on Takealot Buy on Amazon

Final price, stock, delivery and formats are set by each retailer. These links take you to their respective websites.

Questions people ask about capuchin monkeys

Are capuchin monkeys easy pets?

No. Capuchins are intelligent wild primates whose specialised nutrition, enrichment, housing and social needs are difficult to provide in an ordinary home. Their behaviour may change as they mature.

What should I know before buying a capuchin monkey?

Research local legal requirements, lifelong welfare commitments, suitably secure enclosures, enrichment and access to an experienced primate veterinarian. Start with our responsible decision guide.

Does this book replace professional primate veterinary care?

No. It is an educational resource. Medical concerns, nutrition plans and welfare problems should be assessed with appropriate qualified professionals.

Where can I buy the CESH book?

Use the retailer links above to check current availability on Takealot or Amazon.

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A child-friendly jungle story resource created to support CESH awareness, kindness toward animals and better understanding of the natural world.

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Colouring & learning pages

Children can colour, learn and support the sanctuary through simple activity resources designed to build compassion and curiosity.

Open the kids activity page →
Think before you buy a primate educational image

Think before you buy

Public education is one of the most important ways to prevent future animals from ending up in crisis.

Read the rescue stories →
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