Federal Regulations, Policies, and Guidelines
Congress established this Act to ensure that all animals (excluding mice, rats,
and birds) are provided humane care and treatment.
The Guide is used "to assist institutions in caring for and using animals in ways
judged to be scientifically, technically, and humanely appropriate. It also serves
to assist investigators in fulfilling their obligation to plan and conduct animal
experiments in accord with the highest scientific, humane, and ethical principles."
Expanding on the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, this publication
provides current best practices for animal care and use and discusses how applicable
regulations and guidelines can be applied to neuroscience and behavioral research.
It encourages the use of professional judgment and careful interpretation of regulations
and guidelines to develop performance standards that ensure animal well-being and
high-quality research.
This policy is intended to ensure that PHS grantees and contractors care for and
use animals humanely.
These principles were developed specifically for U.S. Government agencies to follow
when conducting testing, research, or training procedures involving vertebrate animals.
This document provides guidance on euthanasia methods and agents to ensure that
animals are relieved from unnecessary pain and suffering.
This is a resource guide that provides additional clarification on the intent of
the Animal Welfare Act.
Additional Reference Resources