Abstract
Veterinary students often learn to perform basic procedures onlive animals obtained from laboratories or shelters. In the eraof modern technologies, there is a constant endeavour for liveanimals to be replaced by alternative, artificial models. Practicingon different anatomical models contributes to better quality ofstudents’ future approach to animals in practice. For purposes ofthis study, many experiments with various materials were madeuntil solution to cheaper, but efficient method of alternativelearning, was found. We created the artificial rabbit ear with thepurposes of practicing and mastering vasopuncturing techniquefrom both marginal ear vein and central ear artery. Made out ofsilicone materials, it gives elasticity and softness closest to theear auricle, and blood vessels are replaced by inner tubes filledwith artificial color. The model represents anatomically correctfeatures of European brown hare’s ear (Lepus europaeus) withdual purpose, since the accent is put on correct and, of course,humane learning.
Highlights
Humane innovations in veterinary education gained big importance in the past decade
In the era of modern technologies, there is a constant endeavour for live animals to be replaced by alternative, artificial models
We came up with the idea to make an artificial ear for practicing blood collecting technique, known as vasopuncture in order to avoid physical and psychological trauma in laboratory rabbits
Summary
Humane innovations in veterinary education gained big importance in the past decade. Many studies on this subject have showed that tests and experiments on animals for educational purposes were inhumane and unnecessary considering so many alternatives available. Nowadays trends are to create artificial models for learning purposes made up of available materials, such as clay, wax, polymer, plaster, etc. Those available in the market are usually costly, lowdurable or once damaged, cannot be repaired. This study was focused on making silicone models that are of low cost, durable, and most importantly, functional
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