Animal welfare

APHA specialises in research to assess the physiological indices of stress and reproduction by non-invasive means in many different species. Apart from the obvious negative welfare effects of blood sampling, the technique can also trigger other adverse physiological effects such as an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which can be fatal.

As a result APHA has developed a range of non-invasive techniques to measure stress hormones (cortisol and corticosterone) and reproductive indicators (such as progesterone) in faeces and saliva. Using these substrates means disturbance to the animals is minimised, and avoids the need for expensive training in regulating procedures.

Our Service

Non-invasive measurement of physiology

We are constantly developing new assays and have the capability and expertise to respond to requests for assays suitable for novel species.

Flexible services tailored to your needs

Our services can be tailored to meet individual clients’ requirements – ranging from basic analytical services to a comprehensive package. We can provide:

  • Hormone measurement from faeces and/or saliva
  • Advice and assistance with sampling methods and techniques
  • Data interpretation and report production

Expertise

Our specialists in stress and reproductive hormone analysis conduct research for and advise various policy divisions of Defra. We also provide services to private clients such as Flamingo Land, the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust and a number of universities.

Latest News

Keep up to date with the latest news and information from APHA Scientific

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Visit APHA Scientific at AAVLD – Booth 305

We’re exhibiting at the AAVLD/USAHA Annual Meeting and ready to connect—stop by Booth 305 to say hello!

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APHA Scientific at WVPAC 2025

Our team had a fantastic time at WVPAC 2025, connecting with poultry health professionals from around the world and sharing insights across the industry.

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Discover More About APHA Scientific’s Work Behind the Scenes

Explore how our teams contribute to animal and public health through research, diagnostics, and innovation in our latest blog post.

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Welcome to Our New APHA Scientific Website

We’re excited to share our new and improved APHA Scientific website. This project reflects our commitment to providing a more modern, accessible, and user-friendly platform to our global commercial customer base.

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APHA Scientific at WAVLD 2025: Advancing Veterinary Diagnostics Together

We were pleased to attend the World Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (WAVLD) 2025 conference in Calgary, Canada, as a Silver Sponsor.

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APHA Scientific – Launch of PT-LIMS: Our New Laboratory Information Management System

We’re excited to announce the launch of PT-LIMS, our improved Proficiency Testing Laboratory Information Management System, now live for all registered customers.

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New price Lists Available for 2025–2026 Proficiency Testing Schemes & Biological Reagents

We’re pleased to announce the release of our updated price lists for the 2025–2026 contract year.

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VETQAS Terms and Conditions (T&Cs)

We want to let you know that our VETQAS T&Cs have recently been updated to reflect changes in business practices and legal requirements.

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