Overview

We are aware of the losses sustained by animal communities at the hands of humans. Species after species have joined an ever-growing list of extinctions, and what once was wilderness is overshadowed by humanity. However, there is a lesser-known legacy of ecological degradation, the psychological effects of violence on animals. Poaching, culls (systematic killing), inadequate habitat, sport hunting, capture, translocations, and other disruptions including ecotourism have shattered ancient traditions and broken social coherence. Animals are losing their elders and cultures.

As a result, animals now exhibit trauma-induced symptoms such as post-traumatic stress disorder, infant neglect, depression, infanticide, and other behaviors commonly associated with human experiences of war and genocide. Wild-caught and captive-bred animals endure years of physical and emotional deprivation. Domestic, farm, and zoo animals also suffer stress and psychological abuse.

To address this pressing crisis, The Kerulos Center was established for the study of animal psychology and trauma recovery. In collaboration with a network of sanctuaries, the Center supports the psychological recovery of animals and the conservation of wildlife cultures through education and training, projects, publications, sanctuaries, and services.

Our work is based on the premise that the transformation of human society is integral to animal trauma recovery. To prevent suffering is to disable its causes, as well as the ways of thinking and acting that damage animals and impact their ability to live and sustain their cultures. There are many facets to this endeavor, as reflected in the depth and breadth of expertise and experience of The Kerulos Center’s staff, board, advisers, and associates.