Development of Improved Devices for Handling and Restraining Experimental Laboratory Mice

Abstract

Introduction: Most animal handling procedures are associated with injuries among veterinary staff and laboratory animal researchers. However, much of the currently available animal handling equipment is inadequate, limiting access to the treated animal or making workflow cumbersome. Moreover, restraining animals to perform procedures, such as blood collection or injection, elicits stress in both the animal and the worker. Herein, we present 4 home-built restraint and blood collection devices in extensive use in our institute. Methods: Animal laboratory workers and experienced veterinarians regularly using the devices (n = 14) were asked to complete a survey ranking the contribution of the devices to worker safety and procedural efficiency. Results: The overwhelming majority of responders (≥75%) associated all 4 devices with substantial improvements in worker safety and procedural efficiency. There were no reports of impaired workflow or safety when using the devices. Discussion: Infection and exposure control may be implemented on various levels, including use of safer procedures, such as injection and blood collection devices. The presented intuitive handling and restraint devices allow the animal worker/researcher to perform various procedures safely and efficiently while eliciting less animal and worker stress. The devices can be easily adjusted to accommodate animal size and disease status. Conclusion: The current devices will serve as prototypes for design of devices for larger laboratory animals.