This includes traditional laboratory animals, farm animals, wildlife, and aquatic animals. The full range of programmatic criteria outlined in Sections I-III of the Guide are entirely applicable to farm animals. However, the Guide does not contain detailed information on housing standards and facilities for housing farm animals. These standards are those promulgated by state agricultural extension services and the land-grant universities. Commercial agricultural housing methods can be duplicated in accredited facilities, if a specific scientific protocol requires such duplication.
Veterinary care is an essential part of an animal care program.
Veterinary care is the responsibility of a veterinarian who is certified or has training or experience in laboratory animal science and medicine. An occupational health and safety program must be provided by institutions and extended to all personnel who work in laboratory animal facilities and who have substantial animal contact. The basic elements of a program include a physical examination and a medical and work history prior to work assignment. Periodic physical examinations are advisable for individuals in select job categories. The program must include immunization of animal care personnel against tetanus.