Figure 1: Pre- and post-application handling of the medicinal leech: (a) Leeches are delivered in a clean container provided by a certified hirudotherapy supplier; (b and c) Leeches are able to move quite quickly on flat surfaces - it is important not to drop or lose a leech when handling it; (d) Satiated leech is visibly distended and moves slower; (e) The leech is being placed into a 70% alcohol solution during the post-application disposal process