Algonquin College upholds a strong commitment to the humane care and welfare of animals, adhering to the rigorous standards and principles set forth by the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC). This dedication is meticulously overseen by the Algonquin College Animal Care Committee, ensuring that all animal use in teaching, research, and other college-sanctioned activities meets the highest ethical benchmarks.
A cornerstone of Algonquin College’s animal care program is the mandatory protocol submission for any animal use. As dictated by college policy, every instance of animal utilization must be thoroughly described in a protocol form and submitted to the Animal Care Committee for comprehensive review and approval. This crucial step must be completed before any animal use commences, including acquisition, housing, bringing animals onto the college site, or utilizing them for any designated purpose. The Animal Care Committee has the authority to approve protocols for up to four years, with an annual renewal requirement to ensure ongoing compliance. After this four-year period, a complete resubmission of a new protocol application is necessary. It is important to note that the use of service animals on campus is governed by a separate policy, AC05 Use of Authorized Animals on Campus, and falls outside the direct purview of the Animal Care Committee.
High Standards in Animal Care and Certification
Algonquin College’s commitment to animal welfare extends beyond basic compliance, actively meeting and often surpassing all pertinent Canadian and provincial regulations and standards. This dedication is reflected in Algonquin College’s certifications and licenses:
- Certification by the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC): This prestigious certification signifies that Algonquin College’s animal care and use programs have undergone detailed scrutiny and meet the high standards established nationally.
- Licensing under the Ontario Animals for Research Act as a teaching facility: This provincial license further underscores Algonquin College’s legal and ethical adherence to animal welfare standards within Ontario’s regulatory framework.
These rigorous certification and licensing processes involve in-depth evaluations of animal care practices, ensuring alignment with both Canadian and Ontario’s highest benchmarks. Algonquin College actively integrates the internationally recognized principle of the Three Rs – Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement – into its animal use protocols. This principle, a fundamental aspect of the CCAC policy statement for senior administrators responsible for animal care programs, guides the college’s approach to minimizing animal use and maximizing ethical considerations.
Commitment to the Three Rs: Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement
Algonquin College is deeply committed to the Three Rs, a globally recognized ethical framework for animal research and teaching. This commitment is embedded within all animal care programs at the college:
- Replacement: Actively seeking and implementing methods that replace the use of animals with non-animal alternatives whenever scientifically and pedagogically possible. This includes utilizing simulations, computer models, and in vitro studies.
- Reduction: Employing strategies to minimize the number of animals used to the essential minimum required to achieve valid research or learning outcomes. This involves careful experimental design and statistical planning.
- Refinement: Continuously improving animal care and experimental procedures to minimize potential pain, distress, and discomfort for animals. This encompasses advancements in housing, handling, and pain management.
For any inquiries or concerns regarding Algonquin College’s animal care programs, please do not hesitate to contact the ACC Coordinator at [email protected].
