Dogs as Biomedical Research Models (copy)

Why are dogs used as a scientific model of disease?

Dogs have physiological and anatomical parallels to humans, are easily trained, and have a suitable lifespan for chronic studies.

Historic milestones achieved with the help of dogs include:

Insulin discovery, blood transfusion experiments, and classical conditioning studies.

What percentage of research animals in the U.S. are dogs and cats combined?

Less than 0.5%.

Name a contemporary area where dogs contribute to science.

Toxicology, pharmacology, surgery, gene therapy, and vaccine research.

What is the Animal Welfare Act (AWA)?

A federal law governing the sale, transport, handling, and use of covered species in research.

What are the 3Rs in animal research?

Replacement, Reduction, Refinement.

Which breed of dog is commonly used in research for its lack of hereditary diseases?

Beagle.

List one spontaneous canine disease homologous to human conditions.

Diabetes mellitus, hip dysplasia, or hemophilia.

What year did the first blood transfusion experiments take place using dogs?

1600s.

Which organization inspects research facilities for compliance with animal welfare regulations?

USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).

What veterinary considerations are essential in the daily care of research dogs?

Daily health observations, emergency veterinary availability, and comprehensive medical record maintenance.

How must dogs be housed in research facilities according to the AWA?

Caging must be non-injurious, sanitizable, temperature/humidity-controlled, with appropriate light cycles.

What is one reason the public's support for using dogs in research has declined?

Increased comfort with using rodents and swine instead of companion species.

Name a career path in laboratory animal medicine.

Laboratory Animal Technician, Veterinary Technician, Facility Supervisor/Manager, or Laboratory Animal Veterinarian.

Which canine breed is known for its role in gene therapy trials for hemophilia?

Irish Setter.

What role does the Institutional Animal Care & Use Committee (IACUC) serve?

Reviews animal protocols, inspects facilities, and ensures compliance with regulations.

List one ethical consideration when using dogs in research.

Using them only when they provide the most scientifically accurate data.