The status and value of replications in animal behavior science
Replications are widely considered an essential tool to evaluate scientific claims. However, many fields have recently reported that replication rates are low and – when they are conducted – many findings do not successfully replicate. These circumstances have led to widespread debates about the value of replications for research quality, credibility of research findings, and […]
Fluctuating asymmetry as an animal welfare indicator — A review of methodology and validity
It has been suggested that fluctuating asymmetry (FA) reflects an animal’s ability to cope with the sum of challenges during its growing period and, thus, is a potential welfare indicator. In this review we investigate the evidence of associations between FA and other welfare indicators measured at the level of the individual and of effects […]
Donkeys in development: welfare assessments and knowledge mobilisation
Donkeys provide important means of agricultural power, transport, and income generation for people in the developing world. Yet donkeys work in harsh environments and challenging socio-economic contexts whereby their health and well-being is often compromised. This article provides development researchers and practitioners with a donkey welfare assessment protocol merging natural and social science and emphasising […]
Effects of different blood collection methods on indicators of welfare in mice
Blood collection is a common experimental, procedure for which there are many different methods, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Researchers should use methods that minimize pain, suffering, distress and lasting harm to animals while meeting study requirements. The authors evaluated stress, activity and tissue damage in BALB/c01aHsd mice after collecting blood using one […]