The Laboratory Rat PDF

preface

The use of laboratory animals, including rats, continues to be an important part of biomedical research. In many instances, individuals performing such research are charged with broad responsibilities, including animal facility management, animal husbandry, regulatory compliance, and performance of technical procedures directly related to research projects. In this regard, this handbook was written to provide a quick reference source for investigators, technicians, and animal caretakers charged with the care and/or use of rats in a research setting. It should be particularly valuable to those at small institutions or facilities lacking a large, well-organized animal resource unit and to those individuals who need to conduct research programs using rats starting from scratch.

This handbook is organized into six chapters: Important Biological Features (Chapter 1), Husbandry (Chapter 2), Management (Chapter 3), Veterinary Care (Chapter 4), Experimental Methodology (Chapter 5), and Resources (Chapter 6). Basic information and common procedures are presented in detail. Other information regarding alternative techniques, or details of procedures and methods which are beyond the scope of this handbook is referenced extensively so the user is directed toward additional information without having to wade through a burdensome volume of detail here. In this sense, this handbook should be viewed as a basic reference source and not as an exhaustive review of the biology and use of the rat.

The final chapter, "Resources," provides the user with lists of possible sources and suppliers of additional information, rats, feed, sanitation supplies, cages, and research and veterinary © 1998 by CRC Press LLC supplies. The lists are not exhaustive and do not imply endorsement of listed suppliers over suppliers not listed. Rather, these lists are meant as a starting point for users to develop their own lists of preferred vendors of such items.

A final point to be considered is that all individuals performing procedures described in this handbook should be properly trained. The humane care and use of rats is improved by initial and continuing education of personnel and will facilitate the overall success of programs using rats in research, teaching, or testing.