MAINTENANCE OF TEST ANIMALS Practical Objectives Calculating changes in mouse body weight (mus musculus) in the adaptation period for 5 (five)day. Basic theory For good scientific research where animals are used as objects or models of study, the work procedures are evaluated by the Animal Use Ethics Committee. Therefore, the use of animals in educational laboratory activities (practicum) needs to be in harmony with the procedures and meet the ethical criteria for the use of experimental animals.Test animals used in research must still have their known rights protectedasAnimal Welfareas stated infive of freedomswhich consists of 5 freedoms, namely: 1. Freedom from hunger and thirst Free from hunger and thirst, this means that animals must be given food appropriate to the type of animal in proportional quantities, hygienic and accompanied by sufficient nutritional content. 2.Freedom from thermal and physical discomfort Animals are free from overheating and physical discomfort by providing a place to live that suits the animal's behavior. 3.Freedom from injury, disease and pain Animals must be free from wounds, disease and pain by carrying out care, measures to prevent disease, diagnosis of disease and appropriate treatment for pets. 4.Freedom to express most normal patterns of behavior Animals must be free to express normal and natural behavior by providing cages that are suitable in size and shape, including providing friends (animals of the same sex) or even partners for social interaction or mating. 5.Freedom from fear and distress. Freeing animals from fear and suffering is done by ensuring that the conditions and treatment received by pets are free from anything that causes fear and stress, such as conflicts with other species and interference from predators.Basically, the management of experimental animals focuses on: a. Building condition Sometimes in research test animals are placed in cages. However, you need to remember that the condition and size of the cage really determines the condition of the experimental animals, because the shape, size and materials used are elements in the physical environment for the experimental animals. The cage must be designed in such a way that the animal can live in peace, not too humid, can provide good air circulation, suitable temperature, ventilation complete with insect proof screen (mosquito net). b. Sanitation The cages used to place test animals have a good sanitation system, good drainage system, and are well maintained, for example with disinfectant (lysol 3-5%). Apart from that, it is necessary to wear a lab coat (Protective clothing) or other protective equipment such as masks and so on. c. Availability of food Availability of food for experimental animals that is nutritious and in sufficient quantities. The storage must be good, protected from a damp environment, and kept free from insects or other borers, because the presence of this can be an indication of damage to the animal food. d. Water needs The water needs can be obtained by animals easily and smoothly and try not to have too high a mineral content and that it is clean and does not wet the animal's cage. e. Air circulation With a good ventilation system, so that air circulation can be regulated, it is even better if an exhaust fan is installed so that air circulation is controlled. f. Lighting Lighting is very necessary, especially in regulating the reproductive process of animals. It is necessary to pay attention to the light and dark cycles because in some animals the estrus cycle (reproductive cycle) is very dependent on light and if there is no light it will cause the reproductive process to be hampered. g. Humidity and room temperature Room temperature and humidity are important components of the environment of all animals because they directly affect the animal's ability to regulate its internal heat. heat loss in animals can cause the animal to faint, not by sweating. The humidity and room temperature recommended for each experimental animal is different, for example mice at a temperature of 300C, and rabbits at 250- 280C. h. Security The purpose of this security is to prevent infection from occurring, whether from animals or humans. So as a precautionary measure, no one is permitted to touch or remove animals from cages (especially if the animals are germ free or what is calledGerm Free Animals) without any need. i. Training/courses for personnel In the experimental animal care program, sufficient trained and experienced personnel are required, because knowledge relating to experimental animals can involve many aspects of science, so it is very necessary to have courses for both administrative and technical personnel.