Training Laboratory Rabbits to Refine Routine Husbandry Procedures

We intend to improve animal welfare for as long as animal experiments are carried out. It is our moral responsibility and duty to ensure that the laboratory animals suffer as less as possible. This also includes caring for and handling the animals in the gentlest way possible.

For instance, by using positive reinforcement training. Our research suggests that gentle handling techniques and positive reinforcement training reduces stress in laboratory animals. researchers are currently confronted with the requirements to train their laboratory animals.

However, this is extremely challenging for someone without any previous experiences in animal training. Therefore, our protocol provides step-by-step instructions that should allow everyone to get the first positive experiences in training a rabbit. First of all, it is animal friendly.

We compared the behavior of the rabbits after they were picked up in a transport box, or with the conventional handling techniques. The transport box was less aversive and therefore, could serve as an effective refinement measure.