This memo has been developed by the veterinary staff to provide information on proper monitoring and care of research animals recovering from surgery.
Principal investigators are responsible for proper monitoring and care of their research subjects.
Monitoring involves timely, periodic examination of the animal to assess the animal's state of health and the maintenance of written records of the examination findings. Post-surgical complications may cause unnecessary discomfort and is an area of particular concern to the Committee. Consideration of possible complications before the procedure and regular monitoring of the patient after the procedure help to minimize unnecessary problems. Common post-op problems are discussed below. Familiarity with normal animal behavior and routine observation of the post-op patient is necessary to detect signs of pain.