There may be instances where other personnel or or other vehicles may be used to transport rodents. This will apply to rodents only, as federal regulations govern the transportation of other species. State vehicles or rental vehicles are preferred over personal vehicles. These vehicles must be climate controlled and must have adequate ventilation in the secondary enclosure area. Unfortunately, there have been several instances of animals arriving at U.F. without prior notice or arrangement with Animal Care.
Animals arriving unexpectedly creates an emergency situation.
The animals have to be placed in quarantine while animal cages are prepared to properly house the animals. The administration offices must prepare cage cards for identification and ensure that the appropriate protocols and funding sources are identified. This emergency situation is disruptive to the normal operations and involves the time of several personnel. Animals will be quarantined for assessment of their health status. Unauthorized entry of animals jeopardizes the health of all animals in the facility and the research of other investigators.