Refinement means modifying husbandry or procedures to minimize pain and distress by considering an animal's entire lifetime, not just individual procedures. This includes improvements to housing, enrichment, handling, training, and monitoring.
UBC Resources
- Rodent Anesthesia and Analgesia Guidance: protocols for selecting drugs, dosing, and monitoring to minimize pain during procedures. See the Rodent Anesthesia and Analgesia page.
- Vet Services: Clinical Veterinarians, RVTs, and the Training Team consult on protocol development and pain management. Partner with your vet early to identify refinement opportunities.
- Post-Approval Monitoring (PAM): facility audits and continuing reviews that catch welfare concerns early and drive ongoing refinement.
- ACS Diagnostic & Research Histology Laboratory: efficient sample processing maximizes scientific value per animal, reducing the need for repeat procedures.
External Tools
- NC3Rs Refined Mouse Handling Course: free e-learning on low-stress handling techniques.
- Research Animal Training (RAT) resources: standardized protocols for injections, gavage, handling, and surgery, developed with Newcastle University (paid membership required).
- CCAC guidance requires immediate, humane action per your protocol's endpoints when an animal shows severe or intractable pain or distress. Refinement includes humane endpoint planning, not just technique.
Notes on Refinement
Refinement is ongoing, not a one-time requirement. Revisit your procedures and housing practices as new techniques and evidence emerge, in partnership with your Clinical Veterinarian and facility staff.