OVERVIEW

University Laboratory Animal Resources (ULAR) is a campus-wide organization that provides support for research and instructional programs. It is responsible for the care of a wide variety of animals - from fish to frogs and goats to guinea pigs.

Ethical and legal considerations dictate that all animals be cared for according to humane standards.

Animals kept at MSU must have been lawfully acquired. Their care must be in compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Training programs are designed to ensure that every person involved with the care of animals is aware of the established standards and regulations.

ULAR strongly supports the humane use of animals in research. We hope this information adds to your understanding of ULAR and the vital role animal research plays in the improvement of human and animal health and for diminishing the pain and suffering caused by disease.

The Role of University Laboratory Animal Resources

• Acquires laboratory animals and provides quarantine or special care
• Provides animal care 365 days a year
• Provides
  1. Training for investigators and staff in all aspects of animal care
  2. Consultation and diagnostic service relating to laboratory animal health or care
  3. Surgical facilities and assistance
  4. Arrangements for necropsy examinations
  5. Waste disposal
• Facilitates inspections by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), state and federal regulating agencies
• Maintains a resource library
• Sponsors seminars on animals in research
• Maintains a staff of technicians and veterinarians who work with research faculty and staff to ensure that animals are treated humanely and with respect
• Maintains a warehouse for laboratory animal feed

Importance of Animal Research

Virtually all medical knowledge and treatment - certainly, every medical breakthrough of the last century - has involved research with animals.

Scientific findings about the causes and prevention of heart disease and cancer, drugs to treat serious diseases, surgical procedures to repair or replace vital organs or to correct birth defects, diagnostic tools and tests to pinpoint disease in its early and most treatable stage have all been made possible through animal research.

Today research faces one of its most severe challenges. Not in the area of disease - but in the form of activism that could curtail or even prevent the use of animals in research.

Do your part by becoming aware of the genuine concern the scientific community has for the humane treatment of research animals. Realize the importance of animal research and be informed about animal research and its role in improving the health and welfare of both humans and animals.

Home