Core Course Training Modules

Part of the Institutional Animal User Training Program is the CCAC core course on laboratory animal science. The course is available as a series of on-line, web-based modules. To register for this MyLearningSpace course, contact the Animal Care Supervisor.

The course consists of 12 modules arranged into three groups:

Group A: Guidelines and Ethics
o Guidelines, Legislation and Regulations
o Ethics in Animal Experimentation
o The Three R's of Humane Animal Experimentation

Note: The three core topics covered in Group A are mandatory for all users.

Group B: Good Science and Animal Care
o Occupational Health and Safety
o Research Issues
o Basic Animal Care
o Environmental Enrichment
o Basic Diseases and the Animal Facility

Group C: Pain, Distress and Animal Welfare
o Pain, Distress and Endpoints
o Analgesia
o Anaesthesia
o Euthanasia of Experimental Animals

A multiple choice examination at the end of each module constitutes the formal grade for each portion of the course. A mark of 3 out of 5 is considered a passing grade.

Practical Skills Training

Practical skills courses in animal handling, anaesthesia, survival surgery and special techniques are available at certain times of the year. Notification of the dates and times of these courses will be sent to all researchers and instructors with active protocols. Principal Investigators are responsible for ensuring that all personnel associated with their animal use protocol attend the appropriate training courses.

Documenting Education and Training

It is the responsibility of the Institution to document that all personnel have been adequately trained in the required areas. Training received by each person involved with the care and use of animals in research, teaching and testing must appear on the relevant approved animal use protocol (AUP). The Animal Care Supervisor will maintain a database of attendance by all personnel at all training courses, and the completion of any on-line training modules.

Please direct any questions regarding the Education and Training Program, to the Animal Care Supervisor, Kelley Putzu, at ext. 3456 or kputzu@wlu.ca.