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How to Ear-Tag Mice

Scientific research provides society with some of its greatest discoveries; it also presents it with some of its greatest ethical dilemmas. Using animals for scientific research requires respect not only for the research but for the animals themselves. Certain animals, such as mice, have a physiology that provides vital scientific data in fields from psychology to pharmaceutical research. In order to identify multiple mice used as test subjects, researchers often use ear tags. These tags help identify the mice used, and should cause them a minimum of stress if attached properly.

Things You'll Need

Small-animal ear tag
Rubbing alcohol
Ear-tag applicator
Mouse

Instructions

- 1
  Wash the small-animal ear tag you're going to use with rubbing alcohol. Let it dry.
- 2
  Insert the tag into the jaws of an ear-tag applicator so the "hole" side of the tag rests over the "indentation" side of the applicator.
- 3
  Grip a mouse by the skin at the back of its neck (or "scruff"). Hold the scruff firmly but gently to keep the mouse still and get clear access to its ears.
- 4
  Position the applicator, with the tag in its jaws, over the desired tagging location on the animal's ear. The tag should be placed as far from the edge of the ear as possible, beyond a ring of cartilage.
- 5
  Squeeze the applicator handle quickly and firmly to pierce the animal's ear, installing the tag.
- 6
  Remove the applicator and check the tag to ensure the point has pierced the ear and entered through the hole side of the tag, making a proper seal.

Animals & Science