The Restraint Platform - refinement of long term restraining of dogs for experimental procedures

Abstract

All experimental procedures should be evaluated and, if possible, altered to reduce discomfort, pain and/or  distress and to enhance the involved animal’s well-being.  This short communication describes a new method for the long term restraining of dogs for experimental  procedures like multiple blood sampling.  The newly developed platform offers the dog a choice either to lie down, sit upright, or stand up, and  facilitates an easy blood sampling procedure while ensuring a good and safe restraining of the dog.