Schedule 1 stunning followed by decapitation
- Technique
- Summary
- Schedule 1 stunning techniques in other animals
- All blood sampling techniques in the mouse
Please read the general principles of blood sampling page before attempting any blood sampling procedure.
Technique
The primary reason for carrying out this technique is to obtain a large volume of blood that has not been affected by anaesthetic drugs or carbon dioxide. A large volume of blood can be collected from the trunk if necessary.
Suitable for all strains, this technique should only be used in rare circumstances and where there is exceptional scientific justification. Concussion of the brain is achieved by striking the cranium. The mouse must be determined as dead before decapitation (see Section 1(4) of the amended ASPA).
Concussion of the brain is a Schedule 1 method of euthanasia and should only be carried out by people competent in this method for the species and size of the animal. Training for stunning and decapitation should be undertaken on dead animals.
Summary
Number of samples | One |
Sample volume | Up to 1 ml |
Equipment | Suitable sharp instrument to decapitate, (e.g., guillotine or sharp scissors). |
Staff resource | One person is required to take the blood sample. |
Other | A high level of expertise is required for this technique. |