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Updated Frequently Asked Questions on Third-Party Facilities
The Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) has updated its CCAC frequently asked questions: Terms of reference for animal care committees (formerly named CCAC frequently asked questions: Animal ethics and care program components). Notably, the answer to question 3 has changed and two new questions (questions 8 & 9) have been added. The updates are intended to clarify certified institutions’ roles and responsibilities when they subcontract work to non-certified institutions, such as third-party facilities and vendors.
These changes emphasize that the CCAC expects animal care committees to oversee animal-based work regardless of where the work is undertaken. Animal care committee visits to vendors and third-party facilities should be conducted when feasible to verify animal care and welfare conditions, husbandry and housing conditions, and the availability of veterinary and competent animal care staff. As long as animals remain in use for an approved scientific activity, their ethical treatment falls under the purview of the animal care committee of the CCAC-certified institution conducting the work.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to . Thank you for your ongoing collaboration in ensuring high standards for the ethical care and use of animals at your institution.