This 2010 video by The Boston Globe has recently resurfaced online.
It’s not uncommon to run into someone in public who has a dog as a service animal for any number of physical or psychological reasons. Tiny horses have also been known to for a human in need.
But a monkey? It may seem shocking at first, but a monkey actually makes a lot of sense as a service animal. The ape is our closest cousin in the animal kingdom, and with their dexterous hands and feet, a monkey can be a help to a disabled human like no dog can.
Take Ned Sullivan for example. After undergoing a traumatic neck and brain accident, the doctors told his mother he would never move or talk on his own. Thankfully, Ned has recovered some speech and movement, but he still needs a helping hand.
That’s where Kasey comes in. The adorable monkey is apart of Helping Hands Monkey Helpers, a special organization that trains monkeys as service animals for disabled people.
Kasey has now become Ned’s best friend, helper, and companion, helping him get his phone, turn on the lights, or just cuddle when he’s in a bad mood.