An overview of the key concepts required for managing a laboratory animal (rodent) facility
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/jlas.2019.1.1.6Keywords:
laboratory animals,, rodents, facility,, management,, feed and water quality,, health monitoring,, decontamination.Abstract
The use of laboratory animals primarily rodents (mice) has increased over the past 20 years especially with
the availability of transgenic and mutant strains. This increased use of mice along with novel research models
with unique needs, has contributed to the evolution of the modern vivariums, decontamination equipment,
imaging cores, ultra clean barriers, decontamination of feed and water etc. In addition, the industry has
also made significant improvement in operating animal facilities. Automation of cage processing is just one
example that signifies the sophistication which is an ongoing process. This sophistication and availability of
better options not only improved animal welfare and ergonomics, but also efficiency in operating the modern
animal facilities. As the animal facility operation involves several components, it could be challenging for
an entry level manager to be knowledgeable about the best options that suits the needs of the facility. This
article provides an overview of the most popular practices for the crucial aspects of animal care involving
housing, animal health monitoring, feed and watering systems in addition to quality aspects. To provide a
complete review of the laboratory animal facility operations and management would exceed the scope of this
article. However, the topics discussed here are worthy of note when assessing the essential care and welfare
of laboratory animals
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