Breeding, keeping and transportation of laboratory animals
7. Animals are settled in at their destination
The rules for the animals when they arrive at their destination vary depending on species, origin and hygiene standard. Each animal is examined to assess its health status. In certain cases– depending on species, hygiene status, health status and company requirements – animals may have to be quarantined; otherwise they are taken straight to the housing facility. If there are any anomalies or concerns, the animals are examined for infectious pathogens. All animals have a mandatory one-week acclimatisation period.
Legal framework
- Laws such as the overarching EU Directive 2010/63 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes sets minimum standards for the whole of the EU and EEA. Individual countries have used this Directive as the basis for their own national legislation, which may include further-reaching requirements than the Directive.
- In Switzerland, the Animal Welfare Act and the Animal Welfare Ordinance provide the legal basis for research involving animals. Swiss legislation is among the strictest in the world and promotes ethically responsible research.
- The Animal Welfare Ordinance also governs the transport of laboratory animals. In addition, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) issues annually updated regulations for animal transport. These include clear specifications on how individual species have to be prepared for carriage (carrier size, etc.).