Experimental Methodology

Guinea pigs are docile and easily handled animals. They frequently squeal when being handled and occasionally struggle and bite. Blood is required for many research projects involving guinea pigs, such as the production of polyclonal antibodies and the collection of complement for in vitro assays. It is also necessary to collect blood and submit it for testing for suspected viral diseases in guinea pig colonies or when animals are housed for prolonged periods of time. The method chosen will depend upon the volume needed, need for lack of contamination, and period of time for which urine needs to be collected. A method has also been developed for the collection of small samples of milk from multiple biopsies of the mammary glands of guinea pigs during pregnancy and lactation. The guinea pig should be firmly restrained, tranquilized, sedated, or anesthetized before administration to reduce pain and distress and facilitate proper administration.