Perceived animal welfare and quality debriefing practices are linked to laboratory animal professionals' job fulfillment and burnout.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To examine the occupational experiences and well-being of laboratory animal professionals, with particular focus on the impact of perceived animal welfare, euthanasia experiences, and other factors on job fulfillment, burnout, and life satisfaction. METHODS: An online survey was distributed to members of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science from February to April 2025. The survey assessed demographics, work characteristics, euthanasia experiences, mental health impacts, organizational support, perceptions of existing regulations, perceived animal welfare, and potential adoption policies. Multiple regression analyses evaluated predictors of workplace well-being measures. RESULTS: Of 339 respondents, participants were predominantly White female (76%) veterinarians (38%), with a mean age of 42 years and > 11 years of experience (56%). Most participants (77%) reported envisioning long-term careers in laboratory animal research. Euthanasia conducted at least monthly was common (46%), and 57% reported negative mental health impacts from euthanasia participation. Although 69% felt well trained technically for euthanasia, only 23% felt emotionally prepared. Thirty-two percent experienced burnout, while 41% reported professional fulfillment. Perceived animal welfare and satisfaction with debriefing significantly predicted higher job fulfillment and lower burnout. Satisfaction with debriefing also predicted greater life satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that well-conducted debriefings following critical incidents and high animal welfare standards may improve job fulfillment and reduce burnout among laboratory animal professionals. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Given the emotional demands of laboratory animal work and high rates of euthanasia participation, implementing quality debriefing processes and ensuring animal welfare could significantly improve professional well-being.