During IACUC inspections, are breeding operations of vendors supplying animals for the research program required to be inspected?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only if NIH-funded
• D. Only if outside campus

Answer: (A)

IACUC oversight covers the entire animal care and use program, including where the animals come from. The welfare and proper care of animals begins with their sources, so the breeding operations of vendors that supply animals to the research program are part of what the IACUC should review. The IACUC assesses procurement to ensure animals come from sources that meet applicable standards and that the institution has appropriate documentation and controls in place for those sources. This review is required regardless of whether the vendor is NIH-funded or located off campus, because the institution is still responsible for the welfare of animals used in its protocols and the integrity of the program from source to study.