Refinement techniques represent a key focus of AWI, as there is much that can be done immediately to improve the welfare of animals in research. AWI offers a plethora of complimentary materials on refinement options to those who work with animals in research, and hosts an online Laboratory Animal Refinement and Enrichment Forum (LAREF) to promote discussion and sharing of information on refinement techniques and practical experiences among laboratory personnel. AWI also provides grants to support research into the development of further refinement techniques or implement refinement practices, and curates a database of scientific literature related to improving the welfare of animals in research.
Published Articles on Refinement
| Pigs Love Scratching But Are Hard on Scratchers: A LAREF Discussion | AWI Quarterly, fall 2021 |
| Rats May Relish More Refined Tickling Techniques | AWI Quarterly, fall 2021 |
| Rodent Training Video Available Online | AWI Quarterly, fall 2021 |
| Handling and Training of Mice and Rats Results in Calmer Animals During Experimental Procedures | AWI Quarterly, summer 2020 |
| Enrichment Strategies for Rabbits in Research | AWI Quarterly, spring 2020 |
| Human “Body-on-a-Chip” Could Replace Traditional Animal Testing | AWI Quarterly, spring 2020 |
| Technician Spotlight: Jessica Brekke’s “Rat Hammock” Design | AWI Quarterly, winter 2019 |
| Human Beliefs and Refinements for Animal Welfare: A Case Study on Rat Tickling in the Laboratory | AWI Quarterly, fall 2019 |
| New Computer Algorithm Could Replace Animal Tests—and Be Better at It | AWI Quarterly, fall 2018 |