Which document outlines policies regarding the care and use of laboratory animals?

The Animal Welfare Act is the key legislative framework in the United States that establishes the minimum standards for the care and use of laboratory animals in research. Enacted in 1966 and regularly updated, this law aims to ensure humane treatment of animals in various settings, including research, testing, and education.

The Act applies to a wide range of animals and necessitates that institutions handling these animals adhere to prescribed ethical and care standards. It covers critical areas such as the conditions of housing, veterinary care, and certain procedural requirements when using animals in research.

While there are other documents like PHS Policy and the PHS Animal Care Manual that also address animal care, the comprehensive nature of the Animal Welfare Act as a federal law positions it as the primary document that outlines overarching policies regarding the care and use of laboratory animals. The Lab Animal Guidelines typically refer to specific guidelines developed by professional organizations, which may provide additional context or more stringent standards, but they do not supersede the Animal Welfare Act itself in terms of legal authority.