Documenting Animal Numbers
The IACUC is required to identify the species and number of animals to be used on any protocol. Annually, the IACUC must submit a report to the USDA which contains an accounting of animal numbers.
The majority of animals used in research or teaching on campus are housed in University Laboratory Animal Resources (ULAR) and monitored by ULAR staff. In these instances, ULAR staff complete a daily census activity sheet accounting for animals by specific protocol number. The remaining types of protocols must have animal numbers accounted for by the principal investigator or designated staff.
Farm/Field Study
Any project that captures or observes animals in a farm or field type study must submit a listing of the number and type of animal captured or observed on a monthly basis. Submitting an e-mail to ULAR that outlines the species and number of animals is sufficient.
Breeding Study
When maintaining breeding colonies, investigators must answer the following questions:
- How many breeding pairs will be kept on a monthly basis?
- How many litters are expected from each breeding pair?
- How many progeny are expected from each litter?
For breeding colonies where only certain offspring are required for experimental use, investigators must answer the following questions:
- What is the expected number of offspring that will possess those qualities required for the experimental design and be used in the research?
- What is the final disposition of the unwanted progeny?
Any project that maintains a breeding colony must submit a progeny use form to ULAR on a monthly basis. It is suggested that this form be kept separately for each breeding pair. This form documents the size of each litter, the number of animals weaned and added to the breeding colony, the number of animals weaned and used in research, the number of animals used in research prior to weaning and the number of animals culled prior to weaning. For purposes of calculating per diem, any animal kept post-weaning age will be counted.
