The importance of a positive relationship between trainer and sheep for implementing an individual training protocol

Abstract

As a gregarious species, sheep find it very difficult to be isolated from their congeners and may express signs of distress in the presence of humans, two phenomena that need to be taken into account in experimental protocols. As part of a research project to study brain function using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), we developed a training protocol with a group of sheep with the aim of acquiring images without anesthesia or physical restraint. To achieve this, it was necessary to work with the animals on a regular basis and to establish a positive relationship with them. Gradually, the animals became attracted to the trainers, leading to a relationship of confidence that enabled them to successfully complete each of the training stages required for fMRI acquisition without anesthesia. With training completed, each animal took part in the acquisition sessions voluntarily in cooperation with the trainers and without restraint. This achievement allows us to study brain function in unanesthetized sheep in a reliable, ethical and refined way, and to reply to the expectations of the 3Rs. More generally, we believe it is essential to attest to the importance of a positive relationship in our experimental context. We encourage the scientific community to build positive relationships with experimental animals, when the context permits.