Enrichment

Enrichment is provided in accordance with the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals and USDA Animal Welfare Regulations.  Environmental enrichment is provided to all large animals, if not precluded by the research study, which include ferrets, rabbits, cats, dogs, pigs, goats, sheep, and cows.   Rodents receive enrichment by the research staff.  LAMS Service/Equipment Request must be submitted for rodent enrichment and for large animal enrichment not provided by LAMS. 

Large animals are housed in a manner that provides them with auditory, visual, and olfactory stimulation from other animals of that species.  The animal technician also plays with and talks to the animal while caring for the animal.   If a large animal must be housed individually the animal is provided with daily, positive physical contact with a human being. 

Examples of enrichment:

1. Food treats other than regular diet. 
2. Toys for large animals. 
3. A resting board for cats. 
4. A nesting box for ferrets. 
5. Hay, alfalfa cubes and salt block for goats, calves and sheep. 
6. Nestlets and huts for mice.
7. Cardboard tubes and Nylabones for rats.  
8. Hut for frogs.