Emotional challenges in our work with laboratory animals: tools that support caring for others and yourself

ABSTRACT

Inevitably, most of us who work with laboratory animals will sometimes form bonds with the animals we are caring for. These relationships will positively enhance the care and wellbeing of the animals' but they also pose important emotional challenges, as was clearly exposed with some contingency managements associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important that the industry acknowledge the existence of these bonds and provide institutional support mechanisms to help Animal Technologists to deal with the emotional challenges of their profession. Current COVID-19 associated working logistics pose further challenges such as delegation of responsibilities, separation of working teams and contingency management of stock to name but a few, along with the individual health and social, economic and personal relationship challenges. This article provides some tools and ideas to support a more open, communicative and emotionally-supportive working environment. The importance of 'self-care' is also discussed. There is a growing commitment to nurture a Culture of Care, and supporting our colleagues by raising awareness of our emotional challenges may support this.Copyright © 2021 Institute of Animal Technology. All rights reserved.