Szczury Laboratoryjne.pdf

dedication

P. E . S . To my father, James L. Sharp and Jamie Weaver, a

childhood friend. “This one goes out to the one I love…This one

goes out to the one I left behind” (REM).

M.L.R . In appreciation to my mentors, colleagues, and

researchers who have made my career as a laboratory animal

diagnostician challenging, rewarding, and always enjoyable.

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 techni-

cal 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 Bio-

logical Features (Chapter 1), Husbandry (Chapter 2), Manage-

ment (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 bur-

densome 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