The basic principles of humane animal care and use are similar among the different regulatory bodies, although the details may differ. These principles are listed below.
Investigators are ultimately responsible for compliance with all applicable regulations.
The committee must have diverse membership, including a scientist, a veterinarian and a member from outside the institution. Minimize pain and distress All procedures should be designed to minimize pain or distress to animals. Scientific justification must be provided for any procedures that may cause more than slight or momentary pain or distress. Reduction, Refinement, Replacement These three principles of the use of alternatives to live vertebrate animals should be considered when designing studies and teaching activities. Training All personnel using animals must be adequately trained to perform the procedures.