Comment in 2022

World-changing events took place between the 2019 and 2022 FELASA congresses. The challenges imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of animal research, and were an unavoidable issue discussed at FELASA2022. However, it was the future of laboratory animal science, medicine, and education that took central stage ─ a future that will rely on improved ‘Communication’ between all stakeholders.

Transporting lab rodents is increasingly complex, owing to a variety of global trends and current constraints. Best practices and innovative approaches can help to ensure lab animals reach their destination safely and in a timely way. This Comment reviews those challenges and best practices through the lab animal transportation experiences of Taconic Biosciences, a global provider of rodent models.

Teamwork and organizational culture have been increasingly recognized as essential components to improving healthcare. Given the stakeholders and complexity of work necessary to execute high-quality animal research, creating a strong, high-performing team of clinicians, scientists and veterinarians would improve productivity. Positive collaborative cultures can advance animal and human welfare, enhance research quality and provide mutual learning for all team members.