Abstract

Refinements in routine procedures can significantly enhance husbandry practices, benefiting both animal care staff and the animals themselves. In many facilities housing laboratory rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), interactions with humans are minimal, often leading to stress and the display of avoidance behaviors such as resistance to handling, spontaneous urination, thumping, boxing, specific vocalizations, scratching, and biting. Encouraging voluntary participation helps mitigate stress, improve animal welfare, and enhances research quality. At Fundación Ciencia & Vida, we manage Chile's last colony of New Zealand White laboratory rabbits. Their routine care is entrusted to a team of 4 veterinary technicians dedicated to ensuring their well-being and promptly identifying any health concerns. This presentation also aims to highlight the technicians' commitment, recognize their essential role in high-quality animal care, and emphasize the importance of their training in handling and welfare practices.