Questioning the necessity of food– and fluid regimes: Reply to Prescott and colleagues’ response

In this reply, I contest the reply of the NC3R's Working Group to my critique of their report on refinement in behavioural neuroscience research involving food or fluid control. I argue that much of their hesitation to my suggested techniques is unfounded. I question the default use of deprivation regimes, suggest alternatives and insist that proper trainer skill (seemingly an overlooked variable) is pivotal in successfully accomplishing the desired performance goals.

► Cross-discipline fertilization may improve animals’ welfare. ► Dietary control may be redundant – alternatives suggested. ► Trainer skill pivotal in behavioural neuroscience.