Insulin therapy, blood transfusions, intravenous medication and anesthesiology are some of the major medical advances made possible by using dogs in laboratory research.
Because their physiology is similar to humans -- small stomach, short digestive tract and similar organ structures -- dogs of many breeds are invaluable research models. Today, they are commonly used in radiation studies, experimental surgery and physiological studies.
For long-term laboratory experimentation, the small, Beagle is the most popular breed. Beagles adapt well to cage life and are uniform in size, temper and response. They require small amounts of food, bark little and are good breeders.
Laboratory dogs are more contented if they can share a cage with a companion. When a dog has to be separated from canine companionship, it should get extra attention from its handler. An ideal cage has self-operating doors that lead to an exercise runway. If this isn't possible, the dogs should be exercised twice a day in a communal runway, or outdoors on a leash.
Every new arrival to the lab should be quarantined for a suitable time, examined by a veterinarian, bathes and thoroughly dried and dusted with insect powder if necessary. New dogs will naturally be fearful of the surroundings. The fear can be overcome if you handle the animal in a calm, gentle manner.
As far back as the 17th century, researchers have recognized the many advantaged of using dogs in the laboratory. But today, with primates becoming more difficult to obtain, dogs are growing in importance to medical research. Their internal systems, organs and muscles are so similar to humans that laboratory dogs are irreplaceable. Their breeding capacity, temperament and loyalty to their caretakers are additional reasons for their popularity in the laboratory.
Take a look and see what diet is best for the canines in your facility.
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