TRAINING TO RELIABLY OBTAIN BLOOD AND URINE SAMPLES FROM A DIABETIC CHIMPANZEE (PAN-TROGLODYTES)

Positive reinforcement training techniques were used to gain the coope ration of a socially housed, 3-year-old, insulin-dependent diabetic ch impanzee (Pan troglodytes) in obtaining blood and urine samples for mo nitoring of glucose levels. A urine collection device, adaptable to ma ny types of caging, allowed collection of urine from the diabetic subj ect as well as other trained, socially housed animals in their home ca ges. Four years after initial training, the diabetic subject continued to urinate into the container any time of the day or night, usually w ithin 2 min of presentation of the cue, without removal from the home cage or separation from her companions. Blood samples were readily obt ained from the subject by heel puncture or venipuncture. (C) 1996 Wile y-Liss, Inc.