This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. The Psychological Well being (PWB) Program oversees the implementation of the Federally-required Environmental Enhancement (EE) Plan for nonhuman primates at the WaNPRC. The purpose of the EE Plan is to provide a psychologically enriching environment for laboratory primates to address their psychological needs while also meeting or exceeding regulatory requirements. The PWB Program uses a multi faceted approach to provide enrichment opportunities for nonhuman primates compatible with housing requirements and research objectives. PWB evaluates new enrichment options before widespread adoption. The diagnosis and treatment of behavioral problems of WaNPRC primates is in the domain of the Program. Behavioral assessments and interventions are conducted by PWB staff. Enrichment and behavioral issues relating to the physical health and medical conditions of the animals are reviewed by veterinary staff. Husbandry staff, under the supervision of the Colony Manager, implement certain aspects of EE Plan. To achieve the goal of maximizing the mental health of laboratory primates, PWB develops protocols and forms for monitoring and documenting enrichment, social compatibility, behavioral assessment and intervention strategies. Communication among PWB, husbandry, and veterinary staff is facilitated by meetings of the Environmental Enhancement Committee, which serves as a forum for ideas, implementation, and communication with respect to environmental enrichment and behavioral health issues of WaNPRC's laboratory primates. PWB also presents training seminars for WaNPRC personnel to provide extensive information regarding nonhuman primate behavior and the PWB Program. The WaNPRC 's Psychological Well-being Program incorporates knowledge gained from its research to modify animal management and environmental enhancement options, thereby improving nonhuman primate psychological well-being and overall health. In the past year, we have analyzed data to identify factors correlated with compatibility in grooming-contact social housing. Younger animals are more likely to be compatible than adults. Rhesus macaques are less likely to be compatible than pigtailed macaques, longtailed macaques, or baboons.
Showing the most recent 10 out of 320 publications
