Institutions should use the recommendations in the Guide as what?

The recommendations in the Guide serve as a foundation for developing a program because they provide a comprehensive framework for the care and use of laboratory animals. They encompass best practices, ethical considerations, and regulatory requirements to ensure the humane treatment of animals used in research and teaching. By utilizing the Guide as a foundational resource, institutions can create policies and procedures that align with both ethical standards and legal obligations. This foundational approach helps institutions build robust animal care and use programs that promote compliance with the Animal Welfare Act and the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, ultimately enhancing the welfare of the animals and the integrity of scientific research.