Use of Miniature Marshmellows to Reduce Stress, Enhance Safety, and Increase Efficiency When Working with Sinclair Miniature Swine
Abstract
We are constantly being asked to do more with less--more research studies with more animals to care for but with less time and fewer employees. How do we continue to keep our quality of care top notch while still meeting the desired pace? Enrichment is the answer. Enrichment reduces animal and employee stress, enhances safety, and increases facility efficiency. Our facility has found Sinclair Miniature Swine are calmer and less stressed if they are provided extra human interaction and enrichment during their acclimation period. At first glance the initial cost of employee time may appear prohibitive but the resultant savings are priceless. Sinclair Miniature Swine familiar with people and mini-marshmallows are easily trained to perform simple husbandry be haviors such as standing still or walking from one cage to another. These behaviors minimize the need for physical handling thereby reducing stress. decreasing procedure time and enhancing safety. Everyone wins with enrichment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 30, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1036146
Entities
People
- Erica L. Dean
Organizations
- 59th Medical Wing