Washington Update
FASEB Supports Adoption and Rehoming of Research Animals
By: Galen CobbThursday, March 27, 2025
FASEB has issued a statement in support of the adoption and rehoming of research animals upon completion of research studies. In alignment with its commitment to animal welfare, FASEB encourages institutions to develop tailored policies that address their specific needs, under the guidance of their Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) members and the attending veterinarian.
FASEB recognizes that not all animals involved in research are suitable for adoption. To ensure safety and animal welfare throughout the adoption and retirement process, FASEB provides several recommendations for best practices for institutions to follow.
- Compliance with Legal Requirements: Institutions must adhere to all local, state, and federal laws and regulations governing the transfer of animal ownership.
- Approval from Veterinarians: Adoption and retirement placements must receive approval from the institution’s attending veterinarian or designee prior to adoption or rehoming.
- Thorough Assessments: Attending veterinarians should assess the animal’s health, temperament, ability for travel, and overall suitability for adoption to ensure a successful transition.
- Prevention of Risk: Adoption and rehoming should be restricted to animals that pose no threat to their new environment, particularly in preventing the spread of transgenes or pathogens.
- Vetting Potential Adopters: A comprehensive background check process should be conducted for all potential adopters to confirm that they can provide a safe and caring environment.
- Sanctuary Licensure: Institutions must verify that any sanctuaries receiving animals are properly licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and up-to-date with the appropriate certifications.