Federal policies and guidelines require humane treatment of laboratory animals. Which statement best reflects this requirement?

• A. Humane treatment is optional.
• B. Humane treatment is not required.
• C. All laboratory animals must be treated humanely under federal policies.
• D. There are no federal policies governing humane treatment.

Answer: (C)

Federal policies require humane treatment of laboratory animals, and this applies to all animals used in research. The statement that all laboratory animals must be treated humanely under federal policies captures the universal obligation institutions have, especially those receiving federal funds or conducting federally reviewed work, to provide humane care, minimize pain and distress, and maintain proper housing and veterinary care. Oversight, such as IACUC review, ensures that procedures use anesthesia or analgesia when needed and that humane endpoints are in place to prevent unnecessary suffering. Statements suggesting that humane treatment is optional, not required, or that there are no federal policies contradict the established laws and guidelines (like the Animal Welfare Act and related policies) that set and enforce these standards.