Sheep have a similar physiology to humans, can get many of the same diseases, have a short gestation period, and their young are born at a similar weight to human babies. These characteristics are valuable in research studies related to respiratory diseases and fetal development. Sheep have contributed to many medical…
Visit Species PageChinchillas share anatomical and physiological similarities of the inner and middle ears of humans which make the chinchilla an ideal animal model for understanding and treating auditory issues.
Visit Species PageThese rabbits are involved in research aimed at preventing fluid build-up in the chest, which happens in humans and animals battling certain forms of cancer. These rabbits do not have cancer; but fluid build-up can be simulated in the animals, so that treatment strategies can be developed. Just like humans,…
View and ShareRabbits are social animals and live well in groups, especially if they are raised together as youngsters. The facility that houses these rabbits receives animals that were raised in pairs, so they are already socialized upon arrival. Even though these rabbits are provided with several bowls of food, they seem…
View and ShareThese rabbits enjoy human interaction. When technicians come into the room, the rabbits move to the front of the pen to receive nose scratches and treats like yogurt balls and dried persimmons. The technicians also enjoy watching these rabbits demonstrate behaviors found in the wild, such as foraging, hopping around,…
View and ShareThese rabbits are housed in social groups (four members per run). Research facilities strive to house animals in areas which allow them to express their normal behaviors. In this case, these rabbits can jump, stand on their back feet, play with toys and interact socially. The run where they live…
View and ShareJills – female ferrets – are incredibly friendly and social and often sleep cuddled together. Research ferrets are housed so that they can exhibit their natural behaviors, keeping them happy and healthy. Jills with litters spend most of their time in the nests nursing and cuddling with kits. Jills will…
View and ShareFerrets are important models for peptic ulcer disease, carotenoid metabolism, cystic fibrosis, and drug emesis screening due to some anatomical and physiological similarities with humans. They have also contributed to cardiovascular research, neural development and visual system studies, skeletal research, pediatric endotracheal intubation training, and the investigation of some types…
Visit Species PageCats contribute to research in neuroscience, ophthalmology, retrovirus research, inherited diseases, and immunodeficiency diseases. Cats are a valuable model for the study of Alzheimer’s disease because they uniquely replicate various integral parts of the pathology of the disease, in a way that’s similar to humans. Advances in veterinary as well…
Visit Species PageThese are common marmosets in the lobby of the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center. Dried fruit, grapes, peanuts and other "pocket treats" are provided by their caretakers. This helps provide enrichment and also facilitates the ability to do health checks and other routine care procedures.
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