Mice at RISE

Summary

This video highlights the humane handling and training of laboratory mice, emphasizing gentle techniques to build trust between animals and handlers. It covers the importance of non-invasive methods, such as using cupped hands, and demonstrates various procedures like blood sampling, intravenous dosing, and clicker training. The focus is on creating a stress-free environment for the mice, using rewards like treats and cuddles, and ensuring their well-being during studies. The video also showcases how proper training allows for efficient procedures without the need for restraining devices, promoting ethical animal care practices in research.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mice should never be lifted by the tail or with tweezers; cupped hands or a gentle touch are preferred for handling.
• 😀 The first handling session aims to build trust between the animal and the handler, using gentle touch and minimal stress.
• 😀 Some mice may be shy and require more time to acclimate to handling, but a calm environment helps them adjust.
• 😀 Gentle handling fosters trust, which is essential for procedures like blood sampling and observation.
• 😀 Observing mice during training and study periods helps assess behavioral changes and overall health.
• 😀 Treats can be used during training sessions, and several mice can be trained at the same time.
• 😀 Trained mice are calmer and more cooperative during blood sampling, eliminating the need for a restrainer.
• 😀 IV dosing in trained mice is calm, and the handler can easily observe any reactions or symptoms.
• 😀 Prioritizing micro-sampling reduces the need for large blood draws, and smaller, less invasive methods are preferred.
• 😀 After procedures, trained mice are rewarded with treats and gentle handling to reinforce positive behavior.
• 😀 Mice can be trained with tools like clickers and rewards, and they have good memory for up to a month, which helps with ongoing training.

Q & A

Why is gentle handling important when working with mice?

Gentle handling is crucial to build trust between the animal and the handler, ensuring the mouse remains calm and comfortable during procedures.

How do handlers typically interact with mice during the initial training session?

Handlers interact with mice by gently touching the body and tail, avoiding lifting them by the tail or with tweezers. This promotes a sense of security and trust.

What role do observation boxes play in the training process?

Observation boxes are used to monitor the behavior of the mice continuously, both during training and throughout the study, helping assess their condition.

How does the training affect the mouse’s behavior during blood sampling?

Due to training, the mouse remains calm and curious, making it easier to perform procedures like blood sampling without the need for restrainers.

What benefits are there to using clicker training with mice?

Clicker training helps mice associate specific actions with rewards, reinforcing desired behaviors, and encouraging the mice to engage with handlers more effectively.

Why is micro sampling prioritized when collecting blood from trained mice?

Micro sampling is prioritized to minimize stress and harm to the animal, ensuring that only small amounts of blood are taken for analysis.

How do handlers observe substance-related symptoms in trained mice?

Handlers can easily detect substance-related symptoms in trained mice due to their calm demeanor and the handler's familiarity with the mouse's typical behavior.

What happens after a mouse undergoes a procedure like blood sampling?

After a procedure, the mouse is often rewarded with a treat and a cuddle, reinforcing positive associations with the training and handling experience.

How long can mice remember training experiences?

Mice have good memory for up to a month, allowing them to retain learned behaviors and respond consistently to training sessions.

What is the significance of using trained mice in research and handling procedures?

Using trained mice improves the efficiency and accuracy of procedures, reduces stress for the animals, and helps ensure that their well-being is prioritized during research activities.