Husbandry Training of a Captive American Beaver (Castor canadensis) for Blood Collection Using Behavioral Restraint

Abstract

We conducted husbandry training of a captive male American beaver (Castor canadensis) and collected blood from its tail vein by behavioral restraint for the first time. We adapted counterconditioning and systematic desensitization for stimulation of the blood collection site, and blood collection was achieved during the 31st session. Incorporating husbandry training made it possible to collect blood without capturing or anesthetizing the animal, and the use of positive reinforcement was considered desirable from the perspective of animal welfare.