Laws, Regulations, Policies and Guidelines Governing the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals

Abstract

A mature and uniform interlinking legal system of regulation, policies and guidelines across countries is necessary for proper care and use of laboratory animals in experimentation. Initially, there was a vast disparity in animal welfare legislations and regulations across the globe. But now, most of the countries have incorporated the internationally accepted standards for animal care and welfare and are working towards accomplishing global harmonization. Many non-profit international organizations such as the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International (AAALAC International) perform a key role in establishing as well as promoting best standards for animal care throughout the world through voluntary assessment and accreditation programmes. This chapter highlights the important regulations, laws, policies and guidelines on care and use of experimental animals.