citation_inspection: 20801

*Guinea pigs used under protocol 15 -01 are euthanized using a Ketamine/Xylazine injectable drug combination and is stated to be administered at three times the standard anesthetic dose. According to AVMA 2013 euthanasia guidelines the use of a dissociative anesthetic in combination with an alpha 2 adrenergic agonist should be administered at five times the anesthetic dose standard when used in laboratory animals for euthanasia. *During discussion with personnel responsible for the above described euthanasia procedure the criteria used to confirm death in the guinea pigs after euthanasia and prior to body disposal could not be provided to this inspector. The individual was asked twice how confirmation of death was determined and no answer was given. AVMA guidelines and industry standard for humane euthanasia mandate that death must always be confirmed using established criteria. Guidance to principal investigators and personnel involved in the care and use of animals regarding euthanasia must be provided to establish the provision for adequate veterinary care required to be maintained by research facilities. The combination of inadequate euthanasia dosages and lack of confirmation of death prior to body disposal can have painful and distressful consequences for the animals involved. The facility should review euthanasia training, methods and techniques to ensure humane handling of animals and adequate veterinary care regarding euthanasia that at least parallels accepted veterinary standards. Correct by: June 30, 2016