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ARPO Policy - Authority of the Attending Veterinarian (AV)
About This Policy
- Effective date:
- 07/28/2024
- Last updated:
- 07/2024
- Policy Contact:
Animal Research Protections Office (ARPO)
(317) 278-1826
ARPO@iu.edu
1.0 - Scope
This policy pertains to the authority of the Attending Veterinarian as delegated by the Institutional Official (IO).
The Attending Veterinarian and any person(s) acting as designee(s) under the authority and/or direction of the Attending Veterinarian related to animal subject involved in research under the Indiana University Animal Care and Use Program which includes animals owned by IU as well as research animals on IU premises.
2.0 - Policy Statement
The Attending Veterinarian (AV) is fully authorized to provide medical care and/or euthanasia to research animals. The Attending Veterinarian is not required to obtain approval from the Principal Investigator or other parties prior to providing treatment or euthanasia to research animals. The AV and other IU facility veterinarians have unrestricted access to all areas where animals are used or housed, including any satellite facilities.
The AV may intercede at any time an animal activity in their judgement jeopardizes animal welfare or compliance with federal laws and regulations or university policy. If the health and welfare of animals are an immediate concern, the IACUC Chair and/or Attending Veterinarian have the authority to immediately halt research activities if the health and welfare of the animals are a concern. If occurs, the IACUC Chair and AV will promptly work together to notify the PI of the halt in research activities. An investigation into the non-compliance and animal welfare will occur as per IACUC policy/SOPs.
Back to top3.0 - Procedures
- When possible, the Attending Veterinarian (and/or authorized designee) will solicit the input of the Principal Investigator or responsible research staff member(s) prior to implementing treatment or euthanasia of a research animal.
- If the responsible research staff member and the Attending Veterinarian (or designee) are not in concurrence regarding the need for animal treatment or euthanasia, the Attending Veterinarian (or designee) is authorized to implement action based on her/his medical judgment and the AV will make the final decision.
- In extreme and rare circumstances, it may be necessary for the Attending Veterinarian (or designee) to implement animal treatment or euthanasia prior to contacting the responsible research staff member. The Attending Veterinarian will promptly notify the PI of animal treatment or euthanasia.
5.0 - History
This policy was revised to reflect that this Policy applies to all animal research at Indiana University - Indianapolis, and Indiana University - Bloomington campuses.
Back to top6.0 - Related Information
- 9 CFR Ch 1 (Animal Welfare Regulations) Subpart C sections 2.31(d) and 2.33(a)
- PHS Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals
- Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, 8th edition
- American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine position statement on Adequate Veterinary Care
7.0 - Glossary
AV: Attending Veterinarian - The AV is a veterinarian who has received training or experience in the laboratory animal science and medicine or is otherwise qualified in the care of the species being used, and who has direct or delegated authority for activities involving animals.
IACUC: Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee - The IACUC oversees the specific use of animals by formally reviewing animal use protocols and granting approval prior to commencing work.
PI: Principal Investigator - The PI is the sole individual responsible for all aspects of a research protocol. This includes ensuring adherence to all regulations, policies, and training on behalf of all protocol associates/lab personnel.
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