Advice on refined methods for blood sampling
Blood sampling is one of the most common procedures performed on animals in research. To enhance animal welfare and ensure high-quality research results, it is important to choose an appropriate sampling method and carry out the procedure correctly. We have developed advice to support you in selecting the most suitable sampling method.
Continuously working to refine animal experimentation is important both for enhancing the welfare of laboratory animals and for improving the quality of research. This applies to all types of procedures, from advanced experiments with high severity to common minor procedures.
The 3Rs Center is currently working on a project to develop brief advice on how to refine common minor procedures. Our first advice in this series focuses on blood sampling, which is one of the most frequently performed procedures on animals in research. To improve animal welfare during blood sampling and ensure high-quality research results, it is essential to choose an appropriate sampling method and perform the procedure correctly. Our report provides information that can support you in selecting the most suitable sampling method.
The material is intended for researchers, Animal Welfare Bodies, and Regional Animal Ethics Committees in their work to develop and evaluate applications for ethical approval of animal experimentation. Others working with laboratory animals may also find the material useful.
The advice was published in Swedish earlier this year.