Report of a panel discussion on how to run an effective Animal Care and Use Committee

There was a consensus between the Panel and the participants in the audience as follows: All animal use should be reviewed by an Animal Care Committee. The policies and procedures of that Committee must, in the letter and in the spirit of federal guidelines, be developed by each institution, or group of institutions, mindful of its own operational practices and should apply to all research using animals, irrespective of the source of funds. The ACC will be accountable to the public at large for the conduct of animal research. To obtain the support of the community, the ACC must have the active support of the institution, both administratively and financially, and its own academic community who must be involved in ACC activities and, where possible, in the development of its policies and procedures. Education is essential. The Committee must understand its obligations and duties especially as they relate to confidentiality and internal freedom of discussion (this applies particularly to lay members). The faculty, staff, and students must understand the protective role of the Committee for both the community and animal subjects. The institutional community must be prepared to accept the responsibilities of animal use and so accept the need for education and updating in appropriate techniques and experimental design. Individual institutions and organizations, such as the Scientists Center for Animal Welfare, can and will provide information and guidance to those seeking assistance.