E100: Policy Concerning Use of Animals

Policy

Approved by Faculty Senate, May 8, 1990; Ratified by Regents, September 11, 1990.

The University of New Mexico (UNM) has long recognized both a scientific and an ethical responsibility for the humane care and use of all animals utilized in our educational and research activities. It is also recognized that all UNM personnel who care for or use animals in educational or research activities must assume responsibility for the animal's general welfare. Obviously, investigators involved in open field research, such as ecology or animal behavior, do not control the animal environment and cannot be held responsible for animal welfare. The intent of these educational and/or research activities is to provide experience and data that will advance knowledge of immediate or potential benefit to humans and animals. UNM faculty, students, and administration shall continue to develop and use scientifically valid adjunct or alternative methods which can refine, reduce, and/or replace the use of animals. Some situations exist which still require the use of animals. Therefore, UNM supports the continued and judicious use of animals in our educational and research programs.

The UNM Animals Care and Use Programs will provide optimal care to all animals and will conform to all federal, state, and local laws. The Programs will comply with the provisions of the Animal Welfare Act of 1966 "Public Law 89-544" and all subsequent amendments; The Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals "Health Research Extension Act of 1985, Public Law 99-158;" and the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals "HHS Publication Number 'NIH' 85-23." All educational and/or research projects involving animals will be reviewed and approved by UNM's respective Animal Care and Use Committees. Students who think they have been unfairly treated by the decisions of any professor or department regarding decisions concerning animal use shall have the right of appeal according to the due process procedures appropriate to the college in which the action was taken.