A while ago I asked the RESADM list for advice about IACUC's review of
activities involving amphibians, frogs and reptiles.   Every institution
across the country and across Minnesota seemed to handle amphibians, frogs
and reptiles differently.  Some interpreted the PHS Policy as not
applicable to animals used in teaching as opposed to research.  Some did
not believe animals on exhibit were covered.  I was totally confused.  So,
I just got off the phone with Axel V. Wolff, a veternarian working for the
Divsion of Assurances of the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare at PHS.
I thought some of you might be interested in a summary of his responses.

Are amphibians, frogs and reptiles covered?   Yes.  All vertebrates.

Are protocols required for the above species?  Yes.  The same as for
warm-blooded animals.

Do the regulations cover classroom and teaching activities?  Yes.
Teaching, testing and research.  Any activity involving animals housed on
campus.

Would protocols be required for classroom and teaching activities?  Yes.

Would the regulations cover an iguana simply put on exhibit?  Yes.

Would a protocol have to be on file for an iguana on exhibit?  Yes.

Would the IACUC be responsible for inspecting facilities housing
cold-blooded animals as well as warm-blooded animals?  Yes.

If any additional information is required, Dr. Wolff's phone number is
301-594-2061.

**************************************************************************

Nancy Kay Peterson
Director of Grants & Sponsored Projects
Somsen Hall Room 202-C
Winona State University
Winona, MN  55987

Phone:  507.457.5519
Fax:       507.457.2415
xxxxxx@winona.msus.edu
http://www.winona.msus.edu/grants/

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