What is laboratory animal science?

Abstract

Laboratory Animal Science (LAS) is an indispensable speciality for all biomedical research. It comprises important factors for the correct conductance of animal experiments. Knowledge and ethical consciousness are the fundamental corner-stones on which LAS should be based. A Clear definition of LAS is furthermore an imperative prerequisite for a proper construction of teaching curricula for all categories of people handling lab animals. Unfortunately many scientists misjudge their own state of knowledge in LAS. It is certainly not sufficient to have a pet dog at home, but even — and maybe for obvious reasons — persons with qualifications as physician or veterinary surgeon do often not realize their ignorance of LAS. This is the reason for the initial device in this paper.