The goal of the Captive Animal Enrichment Project (CAEP) is to transform animal care both inside and outside of South Africa. By facilitating animals of all shapes and sizes to self-select quality plant compounds and minerals, we promote their physical and mental well-being through the field of zoopharmacognosy and offer bespoke enrichment strategies. But which animals can benefit from our methodology?
What animals do we work with?
Zoopharmacognosy has the potential to encompass a broad spectrum of South African animals:
- Domestic animals – Self-selection can be very beneficial for our companion animals. Whether it’s kidney support for cats, immune system boosters for rabbits, or pain or anxiety management for adopted rescue dogs, customised programmes can be created to meet individual needs.
- Exotic animals – Taking care of exotic animals involves many extra obligations. In order to meet the unique health requirements of exotic animals such as alpacas, iguanas or monkeys not indigenous to South Africa, customised wellness programmes for welfare facilities with exotic animals can be created. **CAEP does not endorse exotic animal trade or ownership**
- Captive animal facilities for the public display – We can collaborate with these to offer possibilities for enrichment that go beyond the relief of boredom. Through these programmes, captive animals can choose plants that could help them cope with the stress of captivity, treat pain or mitigate various internal imbalances.
- Farm livestock – Many farm animals, including goats, horses, donkeys and sheep, can suffer from a range of physiological and psychological imbalances. In order to address these issues naturally, zoopharmacognosy gives the animal the choice to ingest natural materials that will support them as they seek to restore balance in themselves.
Knowledge and expertise you can trust
At CAEP, we recognise that in the world of animal well-being, just as it is in the ever-growing area of human well-being, a one-size-fits-all strategy is ineffective. Our extensive understanding of animal behaviour and dietary needs, along with years of expertise, enable us to carefully research every species before developing a customised enrichment programme.
Veterinarians, sanctuary administrators, and animal caretakers throughout South Africa and South America can rely on CAEP to offer knowledgeable in-person advice and assistance. Our goal is to work together with you to build a future in which captive animals have access to the same materials they would if they were free, so that we can support their increased health and wellbeing in the most natural way.
If you are an animal caregiver of any kind, you are welcome to contact us to learn more about our work. If you’d like to donate or get involved, we appreciate any and all forms of support – whether monetary or skills-based. Please contact us today.
