Purpose

The Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals states that newly received animals should be given a period for physiological, psychological, and nutritional stabilization before their use. This allows animals to recover from shipping stress and permits them to adapt to their new surroundings. The length of time for stabilization will depend on the type and duration of animal transportation, the species involved, and the intended use of the animals. This policy will guide the amount of time an animal should be allowed to acclimate to the facility after their arrival from another institution.

Action

Non-Terminal Procedures

1. Rodent species should have a minimum acclimation period of 72 hours.

2. Non-rodent species should have a minimum acclimation period of 7 days.

3. Aquatic species should have a minimum acclimation period of 72 hours.

Terminal Procedures

1. For rodent species, an acclimation period of 48 hours is recommended, but is optional.

2. For non-rodent species, an acclimation period of 72 hours is recommended, but is optional.

3. For aquatic species, an acclimation period of 48 hours is recommended, but is opotional.

Terminal Training Procedures

No acclimation period is required for any species.

The PI should take into consideration the stress-induced variable in the research outcomes. For requirements for other unidentified  species, please contact the Center for Comparative Medicine Attending Veterinarian.

Effective Dates:      December 7, 2023 through December 31, 2026