Frequently Asked Questions
Why don't you offer corncob bedding as an option?
As a company dedicated to advancing biomedical research, we believe that offering products that align with the highest scientific standards is essential. We are committed to providing bedding that prioritizes the health and welfare of research animals while ensuring reliable, reproducible research outcomes.
While corncob bedding has traditionally been used in the industry, we can no longer in good faith offer it, especially in critical biomedical research settings. Recent studies have shown that corncob bedding can negatively affect rodent health and behavior, which in turn can skew research results. Some of the key findings include:
UNMC Bedding as a Variable Affecting Fasting Blood Glucose..
How can I purchase Shepherd products?
We’ve partnered with a trusted network of distributors who are experts in our products and can provide personalized service. By working with these local distributors, we ensure that:
- Local Support: You get local support for product inquiries, installations, and service, all from people in your area.
- Faster Delivery & Availability: Distributors typically have faster access to inventory and can offer quicker shipping or even in-person pickups.
We’re here to help! If you’d like to find a distributor near you, simply reach out to us, and we’ll connect you with a trusted partner in your area.
How can I get my PIs and others on board with making the switch to ALPHA-dri®?
We understand that switching to a new bedding type can be a significant challenge, especially in large animal research facilities where consistency in research data is critical. It’s not uncommon for researchers to be hesitant about changing bedding, primarily due to concerns about potential disruptions to ongoing studies and the perceived risk of impacting data outcomes.
However, what many may not realize is that traditional bedding materials like corncob, wood chips and recycled paper can be highly variable in their composition and impact, leading to inconsistencies in research results. This variability can affect everything from animal health to study reproducibility, which is why making the switch to a more reliable bedding solution is crucial for the integrity of scientific research.
To help facilitate this transition, we offer “Lunch and Learn” sessions where we’ll come directly to your facility, provide lunch, and educate your team about the different bedding options available. During these sessions, we cover:
- The science behind various bedding types and their impact on animal welfare and research outcomes.
- The benefits of transitioning to a more consistent, scientifically validated bedding solution.
- Real-world examples and case studies of other research facilities that have successfully made the switch.
Our goal is to provide a supportive and informative environment where your researchers can feel confident in making the switch. We also encourage you to reach out to other large research institutions that have already made the transition. These facilities can offer valuable insights and guidance on how to smoothly integrate new bedding solutions without disrupting ongoing research.
If you’d like to schedule a Lunch and Learn session or learn more about how we can help your facility transition, please feel free to contact us through our website. We’re here to provide the resources and support you need to make an informed, science-backed decision for your research.