AIPE: HANDELING

Introduction to Animal Handling and Education in Lab Settings

  • Discussion begins with the logistics of handling animals, particularly focusing on naming and identifying animals in an educational context.

    • Importance of appropriate naming conventions to promote a positive public perception of animal education.

Tape and Animal Identification

  • The use of tape for identification.

    • Tape is placed on the top of the box with the name of the animal (e.g., ball python) written on it.

    • Emphasis on labeling accuracy to avoid confusion.

Transition from Lab to Educational Setting

  • Shift in terminology from "lab" to "educational center."

    • Importance of framing animals within an educational context rather than a research or experimental one.

    • Public associations with the word "lab" tend to conjure images of experiments, which may not accurately reflect the educational intent.

Naming Animals in the Educational Context

  • Animals in the educational program should not be named individually.

    • Each animal is referred to by general species name (e.g., ball python) instead of personal names (e.g., Katrina’s ball python).

  • The rationale behind this policy:

    • Avoids anthropomorphizing the animals and focuses on their role within education.

    • Instead of discussing individuals, emphasize the importance of animal education as a whole.

Transporting Animals

  • Proper methods of packing and transporting animals.

    • Materials for transport include pillowcases and boxes.

    • Pillowcases should be rolled down to create a smaller opening for placing the animal inside, minimizing stress for the animal during transport.

Steps for Packaging Animals

  1. Preparation of Pillowcase: Roll down the top to minimize depth for easier access when depositing the animal.

  2. Depositing Animal: Ensure the animal is placed in the pillowcase headfirst.

  3. Securing the Pillowcase: Tie the pillowcase securely after the animal is placed inside.

  4. Transporting Box Preparation: Cover any access points and secure the lid of the box with tape, ensuring the animal is contained safely.

Animal Behavior and Handling

  • Recognizing animal temperament and behavior.

    • Educators are responsible for knowing their animal's mood and when it might be necessary to return it to its container.

    • Important to monitor animals during public presentations and recognize their signs of stress.

Handling Protocols

  • Always check the animal's position within the pillowcase before extracting it for presentation.

    • Be aware not to grab the animal by its head or tail during handling.

  • Ensure the box lid is kept close during presentations for easy access to the animal when necessary.

Public Interaction Policies

  • Guidelines around how to interact with the public regarding animals:

    • Only designated individuals should handle animals that can be touched by the public.

    • Certain invertebrates are strictly for educational display and not for touching.

    • During demonstrations, balance between showing the animal and ensuring safety for both the audience and the animal.

Discussion on Public Touching of Animals

  • Designated animals that the public cannot touch:

    • Tiger salamander

    • Desert hairy scorpion

    • Madagascar hissing cockroaches

  • Emphasizing proper hygiene:

    • Public encouraged to use hand sanitizer before and after interacting with animals that can be handled.

Advanced Animal Care

  • Key points for animal well-being during presentations:

    • If an animal requires moisture, a caretaker should have a spray bottle to provide necessary hydration during shows.

    • Ensure animals are not on display in excess of necessary time; offer breaks as needed.

Ethical Responsibilities as Educators

  • Responsibility to ensure animals are treated humanely and cannot escape during public shows.

  • Leaders should be involved in the supervision and guidance of student volunteers for animal handling to minimize stress and ensure safety.

Packing Protocols for Animals

  • When preparing animals for transport, follow specific procedures:

    • Use gloves when required for certain species, like the tiger salamander.

    • Use secure containers for transporting animals and ensure all items used for transport are accounted for.

Organizational and Communication Procedures

  • Importance of knowing animal origins and packaging systems:

    • Understanding from which laboratory each animal comes is crucial to ensure proper animal relocation and care post-show.

  • Designate areas for packing and unpacking of animals at the end of educational engagements.

Conclusion

  • Reinforcement of key policies and practices in animal education, emphasizing the importance of organization, safety, and public interaction in a lab setting.

  • Encouragement to practice and prepare for animal presentations to provide an educational and engaging experience for the public.

Additional Notes

  • Ongoing support for students is essential:

    • If students feel unsure about handling or presenting animals, they should seek assistance from experienced leaders.

  • Students are encouraged to bring snacks and water for their comfort during long educational events.