Is emergency veterinary care required to be available after work hours and on holidays?

Emergency veterinary care is essential to ensure the welfare of animals used in research, teaching, and testing. The requirement for emergency veterinary care to be available after work hours and on holidays is grounded in the ethical and regulatory commitment to minimizing pain and distress in animals. This is particularly important in IACUC (Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee) oversight, where investigators must be able to respond promptly to any health issues that may arise outside regular business hours.

The availability of emergency care ensures that any unforeseen incidents or complications can be addressed immediately, thereby reducing potential suffering. This aligns with the fundamental principles of humane care and treatment, which are mandated by regulations such as the Animal Welfare Act and the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. Institutions need to have contingency plans in place, including access to veterinary care at all times, to safeguard animal well-being.

Overall, having emergency veterinary care accessible at all times reflects a comprehensive approach to animal welfare that is crucial for compliance with ethical standards in research and education.