2.1.0 STATEMENT

Euthanasia is the primary means for the disposition of animals at the end of a study; however, in some special cases animals may be put up for adoption. To determine if adoption is applicable to a protocol, refer to the guidelines and the description of animals to be considered for adoption in section 2.3.0. of this Policy.

2.2.0 RESTRICTIONS

The IACUC in consultation with the University veterinarian(s) reserves the right to make the final decision if adoption is applicable. Each request will be handled on a case by case basis. Cases which cannot be resolved and decided by the IACUC will be deferred to the Designated Institutional Official.

2.3.0 GUIDELINES

• Non-restricted Species. Those species that do not have regulations place upon them which would restrict adoption. For example, the Center of Disease Control regulations on primates restricts their disposition as stated, "Imported non-human primates and their offspring may be imported and sold, resold, or otherwise distributed only for bona fide scientific, educational, or exhibition purposes.

• No hazardous agents have been used in the species. Under Section X of the IACUC protocol form, none of the following has been used in the species: radioisotopes, biological hazards/pathogens, hazardous chemicals or drugs, recombinant DNA or other agents which would render the animals unsuitable for adoption.

• No invasive procedures have been used on the species. Under Section VII of the IACUC protocol form, the animal has not undergone survival surgery as part of the experimental protocol.

• Only physically normal animals will be considered for adoption. Those animals that have been examined by a veterinarian and found free of any obvious physical abnormalities or obvious infectious disease that might affect its well-being or the well-being of other animals.

• Only socially adjusted animals will be considered for adoption. Animals will be screened by the Laboratory Animal Service (LAS) staff and the adopting agency such as the Hawaiian Humane Society (HHS) to determine their suitability for adoption. Examples of criteria for determining social adjustment will include animal’s temperament and ease of handling.

2.4.0 LOGISTICS

• The HHS is the primary vehicle to adopt out suitable animals for LAS.

• If the HHS does not serve as the vehicle to adopt out animals, the IACUC and University veterinarian(s) will consult with the Designated Institutional Official to determine by what means animals can be released for adoption. In these situations, the adopting person(s) are required to agree to sign a waiver to release the University from any veterinary and legal responsibilities.