Intro to Rat Dissections

The Science of Anatomy

Anatomy (from the Greek word

anatome,dissection), is a
branch of natural science
dealing with the structural
organization of living things.
For centuries anatomical
knowledge consisted largely of
observations of dissected
plants and animals.
Anatomy is almost inseparable
from physiology, which is
sometimes called functional
anatomy.
As one of the basic life sciences,
anatomy is closely related to
medicine and to other branches
of biology.

Dissection Safety
Avoid contact, such as to the eyes, mouth, or other
sensitive areas, with any chemicals used to preserve
the specimen. Also thoroughly rinse off the
specimen off the chemicals before beginning
dissection.
2. Always wear safety goggles and a lab apron while in
the dissection lab.
3. If the chemicals do come in contact with your eyes,
know where the nearest eye-wash station is.
1.

4. Firmly secure specimen to your dissecting

pan. DO NOT dissect specimen while

holding it.
5. Handle the scalpel with extreme care and
always cut away from others and yourself.
6. Properly dispose of the dissected
specimen and organs as directed by your
teacher or leader in the dissection.

7. Students should not be permitted to take

any animal parts out of the room, joke or

horse around, or eat and drink in the
dissection room.
8. Clean your dissection area and tools
thoroughly and return the tools to their
correct storage places.

Always Remember to
WASH YOUR HANDS
AFTER DISSECTION!!!!

Animal Safety/Ethics
Please remember these were once living creatures

and should be treated with respect.

We dissect animals as an educational experience to
learn more about the mammalian body.
Be advised that if you are caught mistreating your
specimen, you will receive a zero for the
investigation.
Mistreatment includes but is not limited to cutting
off fingers or toes, stabbing body parts, slicing and
dicing body parts.

Rat Dissection