Research Enterprise Newsletter - July 2008: Animal Care & Use News
AAALAC and USDA Conduct Vanderbilt Animal Program Inspections
Within one week in June, Vanderbilt University's Institutional Animal Care & Use Program received positive feedback from both the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC) and the USDA, following recent site inspections.
AAALAC is a private, nonprofit organization that promotes the humane treatment of animals in science through voluntary accreditation and assessment programs.
In March, AAALAC awarded Vanderbilt with continued full accreditation, noting the university's "positive spirit of collegiality and partnership among all program participants."
The AAALAC site visit, which takes place every three years, includes a thorough inspection of animal research facilities, staff and supporting documentation. By participating in these voluntary inspections, Vanderbilt demonstrates its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of animal care while pursuing groundbreaking medical research.
Several suggestions for improvement were made by AAALAC. Progress is expected between now and the next site visit, scheduled for early 2011. Look for communication on these issues in upcoming newsletters and Animal Care and Use Program Informational Meetings.
In June, the USDA conducted an on-site inspection, noting a significant improvement in the overall Institutional Animal Care & Use program, especially well-maintained and operated animal housing facilities. The inspector acknowledged that the processes of protocol review and post-approval monitoring are moving the program in the right direction.
The USDA, through its Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), provides leadership for determining standards of humane care and treatment of animals. APHIS implements those standards and achieves compliance through inspection, education, and cooperative efforts.
