A remote-controlled device for long-term blood collection from freely moving, socially housed animals

A remote-controlled device was developed for injection of fluids and collec tion of blood samples from freely moving, socially housed animals via an in dwelling catheter. Samples are collected at times chosen by the investigato r, and the animal is not aware that sampling is occurring. This technique a llows measurement of plasma catecholamines and other substances that fluctu ate rapidly, are affected by psychosocial stimuli, and are altered by captu re and other stressful activities that often accompany sample collection. R apid retrieval of samples is facilitated by remote-controlled injection of an anesthetic. The device has been used to collect blood from dominant and subordinate male baboons before and during events such as chases and presen tation of food treats. Heart rate and blood pressure were measured via radi o telemetry, and behavior was recorded on videotapes. This technique allowe d construction of multifaceted physiological profiles of social roles and b ehaviors.