Animal Care
All animals utilized by Western Michigan University researchers and instructors will receive proper care and humane treatment by conducting activities in accordance with all federal, local and WMU policies, regulations and standardized practices. This is accomplished by use of approved protocols, comprehensive oversight and training. Mistreatment of any animal under WMU's care will not be tolerated.
Committee oversight: Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee—IACUC—interprets and applies federal regulations, state law and sponsor requirements for the protection of the welfare of animals in research conducted under the aegis of WMU.
WMU Policies
Animal Use in Research, Teaching and Testing Policy
WMU Procedures
First time inquiries: request access to the Animal Care Sharepoint site to view procedures.
Returning visitors direct entry to the Animal Care Sharepoint.
Training requirements
All WMU personnel (faculty, staff and students) who use animals in their research or teaching are required to complete the IACUC training program. Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative offers this course. Researchers must also complete any specific courses relevant to their research prior to the start of the project.
Application forms
- Application for IACUC Continuing Review
- Application for IACUC Initial Review
- IACUC Add Investigator
- Supplement A—Hazardous Materials
- Supplement B—Survival Surgery
- Supplement C—Pain and Distress
IACUC Meetings
IACUC meetings are held monthly if submissions are received.
The deadline to deliver animal care protocol is the fourth Wednesday of each month by 5 p.m. Email one electronic copy to research-compliance@wmich.edu and deliver one signed original to IACUC, 251 W Walwood, MS 5456.
An inspection of the animal facility is conducted semi-annually, following an IACUC meeting. Dates will be determined.
Regulation links
- NIH Health Research Extension Act of 1985, “Animals in Research”
- NIH Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals
- USDA Animal Care Policy
- USDA Animal Welfare Act—2019
Additional resources
Submit a Concern
Use the WMU Reporting Hotline to submit concerns. Select “Make a Report” at the top of the page.
Contacts
Julia Mays
(269) 387-8293
Director of Research Compliance
Research Facility Manager
(269) 387-5954