The SPCAL on-line Theoretical Course on Laboratory Animal Science, is a package composed of 19 classes, covering all topics recommended by FELASA for Category B, prepared by competent professionals in the respective areas. As expected for this category, the estimated time to study the classes provided in this course is over 20 hours.

SPCAL is currently reviewing the course to suit the functions defined by Directive 2010/63 / EU (more information here).

Target audience

This course is particularly relevant for all people working or planning to work with laboratory animals, as it conveys the basic principles of education in Laboratory Animal Science. Because the contents and duration are those recommended by FELASA for Category B, this course is an added value for all those requiring an official license from the Direcção Geral de Alimentação e Veterinária (DGAV) to work with laboratory animals.

Evaluation method

The exam is the only event where applicants need to be physically present. The exam is a written, multiple choice quiz and approval in more than 60% of the questions is mandatory to pass. In case of failure, a second chance is permitted without additional costs. Exams will be scheduled on several dates and locations, according to convenience of both SPCAL and applicants. Applicants may choose the most suitable date and location from those set forth by SPCAL and disclosed at the website (click here for dates). For groups of 20 students or more, SPCAL may schedule a dedicated exam on a date and location at best convenience. In any case, the exam should be completed in no more than 6 months counting from the date of application.

SPCAL is currently testing an on-line examining platform for use by students that do not live in Portugal.

Lessons

• Ethics and the 3Rs
• Euthanasia of laboratory animals: rodents and lagomorphs
• Experimental design and scientific integrity
• Portuguese and european legislation for the protection of animals used for experimental and other scientific purposes
• Zebrafish (danio rerio) - Methods for husbandry and maintenance of Teleost fishes
• Methods of handling, restraint and identification of laboratory rodents
• Standardisation and genetic manipulation of laboratory animals
• Health and Safety
• Microbiological standardisation
• Pre and post surgical care and basic principles of surgery
• Behaviour and Environment
• Rodent and lagomorph accomodation and housing
• Administration of Substances and Collection of Samples
• Animal transport
• Feeding and Nutrition of Rodents and Lagomorphs
• Anatomy and physiology of teleosts
• Anatomy and physiology of rodents and lagomorphs
• Anaesthesia and analgesia in laboratory rodents and lagomorphs
• Animal welfare and signs of disturbance
• Fish Psychological Stress and Welfare