Where can you buy laboratory rats? - briefly
Laboratory rodents are sold by accredited vendors such as Charles River, Jackson Laboratory, and university animal resource centers, all of which require proper permits and ethical approvals. Purchases must comply with institutional and governmental regulations.
Where can you buy laboratory rats? - in detail
Laboratory rats are available from specialized animal vendors that operate under federal and institutional regulations. The primary sources include:
- Certified commercial breeders accredited by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) or International Council for Laboratory Animal Science (ICLAS). These facilities maintain health‑monitoring programs, genetic strain documentation, and controlled environments.
- University‑affiliated animal facilities that sell surplus or surplus‑bred colonies to external researchers. Transactions require verification of Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) approval and adherence to the institution’s transfer policies.
- Government‑run breeding programs, such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) or the National Center for Research Resources (NCRR), which distribute standard strains to qualified investigators through established request procedures.
Before placing an order, confirm the following:
- Regulatory compliance: Verify that the purchasing institution holds a valid Animal Research License and that the vendor’s Certificate of Accreditation matches the required strain and health status.
- Strain specification: Identify the exact genetic line (e.g., Sprague‑Dawley, Wistar, Long‑Evans) and any phenotypic traits needed for the study. Vendors provide catalogues with detailed descriptions, including age, weight, and breeding history.
- Health status: Request a health report indicating pathogen‑free status. Common certifications include Specific Pathogen‑Free (SPF) or Germ‑Free designations.
- Shipping logistics: Arrange temperature‑controlled transport with a certified courier. Documentation must include a USDA Animal Import Permit when shipping across state lines or international borders.
- Cost structure: Prices vary by strain, age, and health status. Bulk orders often receive discounted rates; additional fees may apply for overnight shipping or special handling.
The procurement workflow typically follows these steps:
- Submit an IACUC protocol amendment authorizing the acquisition.
- Complete the vendor’s order form, providing institutional address, contact person, and required documentation.
- Receive a quotation, approve the budget, and issue a purchase order.
- Vendor prepares the animals, conducts a final health check, and ships them with accompanying certificates.
- Upon arrival, the receiving facility conducts a quarantine inspection and records the intake in the animal management system.
All transactions must be recorded in compliance with the Animal Welfare Act and the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. Failure to meet these requirements can result in regulatory penalties and loss of accreditation.