Guidance for the Movement of Animals Outside the Housing Facility

Species Specific Examples of Enclosures

Rodents: Microisolator cage with lid secured in place, within an opaque container (e.g. a Rubbermaid® tub, zippered pillowcase, reusable grocery bag or other bag that closes/ties shut) or completely covered with a drape/cover. A disposal gown is not an appropriate option and must not be used. Note: A container or cover is not needed when moving non-hazardous rodents in a filter top cage (i.e. microisolator) through secure research spaces closed to the public.
Small animals (e.g. rabbits, dog, cats, and birds) in a covered (e.g., drape/cover) transport carrier/kennel
Agriculture animals (e.g. sheep, swine, chicken) in trailers or covered transport carts.
Wild animals (e.g. river otters, reptiles, raccoons, opossums) and non-human primates in a covered carrier/kennels/cage. Both animal and personnel safety, due to endemic zoonotic agents (e.g. Rabies, Herpes B) must be carefully considered when transporting such species.
Aquatic species (e.g. fish) - Tanks, buckets, or plastic bags may be used in conjunction with secondary containment (i.e. insulated/Styrofoam boxes or ice chest/cooler) to minimize water spills/loss and temperature fluctuations. Temperature regulation and oxygenation of water need to be considered.

Use of Non-Ohio State Vehicle

Use of a vehicle/trailer not owned by the university or Ohio State vehicle not dedicated to animal movement. Provide the following information in the protocol or amendment.

Protocol Activities

Provide a justification for using a vehicle not specifically designated for animal transport (such as a personal or Ohio State-owned vehicle) and confirm that the IACUC policy Movement of Animals Outside the Animal Housing Location will be followed. This statement assures the committee that the research team is familiar with the policy and will adhere to it, ensuring its use is justified.

For imaging use the designated box within that activity.
For transport related to other activities, (i.e. behavior testing, survival surgery, etc.) create an activity called “Other – transportation” and provide details in the narrative text box.

Animal Use Location

This alerts IACUC staff to arrange for the vehicle and research staff to be available for inspection.

for building select “other”
for Room select “personal vehicle”

Typical Vehicle Inspection Questions

What type of primary and secondary enclosures are used to transport animals?
Where do you place the animals, cages, carrier, etc.?
What is the duration of time an individual animal may be outside of an approved housing area?
How are areas in the vehicle that contact the animal or enclosure cleaned / sanitized following transportation?
- Consider placement of all-weather cargo mats or tarps under transport carriers.
What happens if there is a spill, the cage is knocked over or the animal urinates?
Does anyone else drive this vehicle? Are they aware of and/or protected from allergen exposure?