Compassion Makes a Difference

AWI is pleased to announce publication of Compassion Makes a Difference, the third volume of discussions from the Laboratory Animal Refinement and Enrichment Forum (LAREF), edited by longtime AWI laboratory animal advisor, Viktor Reinhardt. The online forum facilitates the exchange of ideas and the sharing of personal knowledge and experience by animal care personnel who seek to improve the conditions under which animals in research are housed and handled.

Though officially retired, Viktor continues to co-moderate LAREF, the discussion group he established more than a decade ago. In compiling Compassion Makes a Difference, Viktor selected the most salient questions and responses posted by forum participants during 2010–2012. Separate sections of the book cover issues relevant to cats and dogs, pigs, sheep and goats, rodents, rabbits, primates, and (new with this volume) cold-blooded animals. The book includes a wealth of practical advice for animal care personnel, as well as touching personal anecdotes concerning the caregivers’ attempts to provide enrichment to the animals and shield them from needless stress and suffering.