• Slowy@lemmy.world
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    2 days ago

    For mice it’s tunnel handling, where you just let them walk into a tube and pick that up. You do need to scruff them to hold them for actual procedures and to examine their teeth and stuff, but it’s really stressful for them to be snatched out of their home by the tail.

    For rats it’s just picking them up with your hand over their back and under the armpits and then support the bum with your other hand like you would a kitten or any other small domestic critter. Rats are generally more calm and don’t mind being picked up, mice don’t love it and will jump or run away or bite.

    • bryndos@fedia.io
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      1 day ago

      I think that really depends on the individual, some rats are skittish and don’t like being handled at all. The best way to handle them is to leave them alone.

      Humans should test their shit on themselves or on some other human that they can explain the risks to and agree compensation.

      • piccolo@sh.itjust.works
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        1 day ago

        Humans should test their shit on themselves or on some other human that they can explain the risks to and agree compensation

        And medical research would grind to a halt. As unfortunate of relying on these creatures is, their fast growth, short lived, and rapid reproduction cycle makes them perfect for all kinds of research.