Which reporting line does OLAW recommend for an animal care and use program?

The Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW) recommends that the Attending Veterinarian reports to the Institutional Official. This reporting line is crucial to ensuring that the institution maintains compliance with federal regulations regarding animal welfare. The Institutional Official represents the institution’s commitment to the ethical treatment of animals and is responsible for the overall administration of the animal care and use program.

By having the Attending Veterinarian, who has direct responsibility for the health and welfare of the animals, report to the Institutional Official, it establishes a clear channel for communication regarding animal care issues, necessary resources, and compliance matters. This structure emphasizes the importance of veterinary oversight in institutional decision-making and reinforces the collaborative approach required for effective animal care and use programs. It ensures that the veterinarian's expertise can directly influence institutional policies and enhance the animal welfare mission.