Code of Practice for the Housing and Care of Animals Bred, Supplied or Used for Scientific Purposes

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/388535/CoPanimalsWeb.pdf

Code of Practice for the Housing and Care of Animals Bred, Supplied or Used for Scientific Purposes is a guidance document which sets out the standards of care, housing and husbandry of 14 common species of research animals required under the UK Animal (Scientific Procedures) Act, 1986.

The code is in 3 sections: minimum standards applicable until 31/12/2016; those applicable from 01/01/2017; non-mandatory advice over a broader range of topics. It also includes guidance on the staffing, care and practices within laboratory animal facilities

This publication was produced by the UK Government Animals in Scientific Research Unit (ASRU). Copyright is retained by the UK Government with use licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated.

This resources is suitable for use as a reference document by individuals involved in the breeding or care of laboratory animals or those involved in the design, construction or functioning of animal facilities. It could also be used in student education.

Undergraduate and Taught Masters Research Animal Sciences curricula

This resource could be used in the delivery of the following Learning Outcome:

• The care and husbandry of research animals

This resource details the care and husbandry requirements of common species of research animals, and the requirements pertaining to all species.

It is suggested that educators select a particular species and then invite students to design both an enclosure and husbandry regime for that species. A discussion can then be held between student suggestions and the good practice/legal requirements outlined in this resource. This activity can be enhanced with the use of videos and photographs of species/enclosures available at Understanding Animal Research