Melbourne ResearchAnimal Ethics

Behaviour modification

Title
Behaviour modification (pdf, 1.65mb)
Source
Guidelines to promote the well-being of animals used for scientific purposes (National Health and Medical Research Council, 2008)
Part
Part III, Factsheet B
Status
Guidelines
Description
A practical accompaniment to the more universal principles identified within the Australian Code of Practice for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes. This particular factsheet (Part III, Factsheet B) examines the different types of behavioural modification techniques employed with research animals, and highlights strategies for minimising pain and distress.
Table(s)
Title
Modifying animal behaviour (pdf, 469kb)
Source
Australian code of practice for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes (National Health and Medical Research Council, 2004)
Part Section 3.3.44
Status
Mandatory standard
Description
The Code directs researchers, teaching staff and AECs in all aspects of scientific animal use. Section 3.3.44 states that: ???Positive reinforcement is the preferred method to motivate an animal to modify its behaviour or to perform specific tasks. However, in some cases the inducement may need to be some form of biological stress, in which case, it must be as mild as possible. Severe deprivation of water, food, social interaction or sensory stimuli must not be used. Painful or noxious stimuli should be avoided. If their use is necessary, the level and duration of the stimulus must be minimised and escape from the stimulus must be available.???

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