The AWA Regulations require that the attending veterinarian must:

The requirement for the attending veterinarian to have the authority to ensure adequate veterinary care is rooted in the need to safeguard the health and well-being of animals involved in research. This provision under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) emphasizes that the attending veterinarian plays a crucial role in overseeing the clinical care of animals and ensuring that they receive appropriate veterinary services.

This responsibility includes being present to address and manage any health issues, providing medical assistance, and advising on the care protocols utilized for animals in research settings. By having the authority to ensure adequate veterinary care, the attending veterinarian helps to uphold the standards of humane treatment outlined in the AWA and promotes the ethical conduct of research involving animals.

Other roles or responsibilities mentioned in the choices, such as approving animal use protocols, investigating public concerns, or appointing members to the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), are not specifically required by the AWA for the attending veterinarian. These functions typically involve other stakeholders within the institution and the IACUC, which has its own distinct responsibilities delineated by the regulations. Thus, the emphasis on veterinary care is central to the veterinarian's role and is critical to maintaining the standards expected under the AWA.