Jono's journey from suffering as a dancing monkey to new beginnings

We were there at the start when our partner Jakarta Animal Aid Network (JAAN) begun the fight to free Indonesia's dancing monkeys. We joined forces again for the last major rescue. 

One of the rescues is Jono, a juvenile male long-tailed macaque who has lived a life of suffering and hardship all for the sake of entertainment. From the age of just eight months, Jono was subjected to the harsh reality of life as a "dancing monkey," performing for people in the streets.  

His young life was filled with unnatural tasks, including walking on stilts, pushing wooden barrels, and riding a small bicycle. He was dressed in costumes, but as he grew older, Jono began tearing his outfits and biting his handlers when they attempted to re-dress him. Despite his teeth being clipped, an unfortunately common practice among street-performing monkeys, his bites were still painful. 

At around six years old, Jono has spent nearly his entire life performing. For over four and a half years, he was paraded through the streets, made to walk on stilts and push a wheelbarrow, while spending his off-hours chained to a pole or locked inside a dark box. This confined, cruel existence left Jono with physical and emotional scars. 

Yet, amidst the darkness, there is hope. 

Jono's life took a positive turn when he was rescued and brought to JAAN’s rehabilitation centre. The transformation in his demeanour has been remarkable. He is now calm, confident, and adjusting well to his new environment. His health and wellbeing is being monitored carefully, making sure that he receives the care he desperately needs. 

Donate now to help Jono

Upon his arrival, Jono underwent his first medical inspection. He was found to have dental issues and tested positive for parasites, which led to immediate worm treatment. His journey towards full recovery will involve more medical procedures, including a tuberculosis test and blood sampling. However, for now, the focus is on strengthening his immune system through a balanced, nutritious diet and vitamin supplements. 

Jono's diet has vastly improved since his rescue. After years of neglect and poor feeding, he is now enjoying a variety of fresh, healthy foods. While he loves everything he's given, bananas, mangoes, and snake fruit are his absolute favourites. He savours every bite, making the most of the wholesome meals he is finally able to enjoy. 

Since his rescue, Jono spends his days quietly taking in his new surroundings, seemingly at peace. His resilience is evident in how quickly he has adapted to his new life, despite the unimaginable suffering he has endured. Jono’s transformation is a testament to the power of compassion and the importance of giving animals like him a second chance. 

Looking ahead, Jono will need further medical attention, particularly dental surgeries to address the damage caused by the clipping of his teeth. This procedure will be vital to prevent future infections, ensuring that Jono can live a healthy, pain-free life. However, for now, the immediate priority is his continued recovery, with donations going towards his medical examinations and treatments for infections and parasites. 

As we watch Jono begin his new chapter, it's heartening to see him no longer confined to a dark box or forced to perform. His journey to freedom has begun, and with continued care and support, Jono will be able to live the life he has always deserved—free from cruelty, surrounded by compassion, and finally able to enjoy the simple pleasures that every animal should have.