Guideline principle in the use of Laboratory Animals

It is the primary duty of any investigator using an animal to show great care and kindness in handling the animal. In some country there are statutory provision for the use of animals for experimental purposes. This is aimed at minimising cruelty to an abuse of the animals. Which establishment draw up an animal house code of practice for handling of experimental animals. This code of practice is really include the following guidelines.

1. living conditions of the animal should be appreciate for their species and should contribute to their health and comfort

2. Investigator and other personnel should be duly trained in handling animals and conducting experiment on living animals.

3. Animals selected for procedure should be of appropriate species to obtain valid result.

4. Procedure involving animal should be designed and performed with the due consideration for their relevance to human and animal health and for a good purpose.

5. When using the animals discomfort distress or pain should be avoided or minimised.

6. Surgical or other procedure that may cause pain and distress should be performed with appropriate sedation and analgesia or anaesthesia.

7. animals that will suffer severe or chronic pain or distress which cannot be relieved should be painlessly kill at the end of or if necessary during procedure.

8. When exception to the above principle are required the decision should be taken by an appropriate authority never by the investigator himself or herself.