"Certificate" - what is it, definition of the term
An official document issued by a recognized authority that attests the holder’s fulfillment of defined requirements, validates specific qualifications, or confirms the authenticity of a particular item or process; it serves as a formal proof of status, achievement, or compliance and is typically accompanied by signatures, seals, or other security features to ensure its credibility.
Detailed information
An official document that verifies a specific condition or qualification for rodents serves as proof of compliance with regulatory, health, or breeding standards. In scientific facilities, the document confirms that rats or mice meet defined health criteria, possess appropriate genetic background, and adhere to ethical guidelines for use in research.
The primary categories of such documentation include:
- Health attestation: confirms absence of pathogens, outlines quarantine status, and details recent veterinary examinations.
- Genetic validation: records strain identity, lineage, and any genetic modifications.
- Regulatory compliance: certifies adherence to national or international guidelines for animal welfare, transport, and experimental use.
- Export/import clearance: authorizes cross‑border movement, specifying quarantine measures and permissible destinations.
Issuing authorities typically comprise accredited veterinary laboratories, governmental animal health agencies, and institutional animal care committees. Each document specifies the date of issuance, validity period, and conditions for renewal. Failure to present the appropriate credential can result in denial of entry to facilities, suspension of research projects, or legal penalties.
For laboratories handling multiple rodent colonies, maintaining a centralized database of all documents ensures traceability. The database should capture:
- Document type and reference number.
- Issuing body and contact details.
- Effective dates and renewal schedule.
- Associated animal batch identifiers.
Regular audits verify that all records remain current, thereby safeguarding animal welfare, data integrity, and regulatory compliance.