Publisher’s Note

The Fourth R

There is a high importance placed in laboratory animal science on equitable care of humans and animals. This brings us together: our shared investment in our animals and each other. The 3Rs are crucial in ensuring equitable and responsible interactions with animals. There has been discussion on adding another R. Possibilities offered are responsibility, rehoming, rehabilitation, and others. All these options are essential; however, I'd like to provide my idea of what the fourth R can be, and it is near to my heart. The fourth R, to me, is respect. Let's break down what I mean.

The “r” in respect stands for responsibility. One of the first things young students learn in their first science classes is that they must be responsible in the laboratory. This carries the hard work you all do now in exercising care for the animals in research labs.

The “e” in respect stands for expertise. You are the subject matter experts in laboratory animal science, and it is evident! You make the right calls and are confident in your choices. Your expertise allows you to lead your teams in the right direction and ensure that the job is done well.

The “s” in respect stands for safety. Safety is always a top priority the moment you step into the lab and is especially important when interacting with the animals. We want to keep the animals safe to reduce stress, but humans must remain safe to stay healthy and happy in our professions.

The “p” in respect stands for patience. Research with animals that cannot communicate in the same ways humans do requires a lot of patience. It takes time to implement best practices and improve your technique. It also requires patience with yourself as you continue learning and growing.

The second “e” in respect stands for enrichment. It is crucial to keep in mind that the goal of our work is to enrich the lives of millions of people every day. Stay motivated by reminding yourself of the end goal, which is the betterment of our lives.

The “c” in respect stands for caring. Caring is a fundamental part of doing this job; you care about the animals, yourself, and many others. This compassion allows you to be the very best at your job.

The final letter, “t”, in respect stands for team. Every individual who embodies the characteristics above contributes to the team's greatness, and teamwork allows us to continue succeeding.

Respect covers many areas in laboratory animal research. It's important to respect the animals, the research process, and each other. For your hard work, I respect each and every one of you. Thank you.

Ann Turner

Publisher Executive Director American Association for Laboratory Animal Science

Staff

Publisher Ann Turner Associate Publisher Chris Lyons Managing Editor John Farrar Associate Editor Morgan McCloud Ad Sales John Farrar Design/Production Zara Garza

Editorial Advisory Board

Leslie Birke Louisiana State Univ Andrew Burich Benaroya Research Institute Bob Dauchy Tulane Univ School of Medicine David DeOrnellis Champions Oncology Penny Devlin Pennsylvania State Univ College of Med Sonia Doss Duke Univ Medical Center Kelly Ethun Emory University Glenn Jackson Cornell University Richard Marble NAMSA Elizabeth Nunamaker Charles River Laboratories Sara Oglesby AbbVie Inc. Jane Olin Edwards Lifesciences Karuna Patil Seattle Children's Research Institute Amy Pierce Tulane Univ School of Medicine Stacy Pritt UT Southwestern Medical Center Robin Tucker Georgetown Univ

Mission Statement

Laboratory Animal Science Professional (LAS Pro) is the official magazine for American Association for Laboratory Animal Science members. LAS Pro provides a wide range of useful resources and knowledge to the association’s 14,000 laboratory animal science professionals who are involved in advancing responsible laboratory animal care and use to benefit people and animals. All signed articles, including, committee reports, news, and commentary, reflect the individual views of the authors and are not official views of AALAS. Authorization to photocopy portions for personal or internal use is granted by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science. Photocopying for purposes of resale or outside distribution is prohibited unless written approval is obtained from the AALAS Director of Communications.

Copyright 2022 by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science. Laboratory Animal Science Professional (USPS 010-730) is published bimonthly by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science, 9190 Crestwyn Hills Drive, Memphis, TN 38125. Periodicals Postage paid at Memphis, TN 38101 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to AALAS, 9190 Crestwyn Hills Drive, Memphis, TN 38125-8538.

American Association for Laboratory Animal Science

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