TABLE I. Study Phases.
Phase | Abbreviation | Descriptions | Data collected |
---|---|---|---|
Baseline | BL | Individually housed animals before introduction | Behavioral data Telemetry data Fecal cortisol levels Physical examination Complete blood count (CBC) Chemistry panel (CP) |
Protected contact | PC | Pairs introduced but remain separated by a panel consisting of bars spaced 2cm apart to allow social contact between subjects without allowing them to enter the other's cage | Behavioral data Telemetry data |
Full contact | FC | Panel is pulled and animals are in full contact | Behavioral data Telemetry data |
Post-introduction | PI | Pair housing beginning a week after introduction | Behavioral data Telemetry data Fecal cortisol levels Physical examination Complete blood count (CBC) Chemistry panel (CP) |
Settled pairs | SP | Pair housing beginning at 20–39 weeks after initial introduction | Behavioral data Telemetry data Fecal cortisol levels Physical examination Complete blood count (CBC) Chemistry panel (CP) |