We understand that animal health and welfare is a concern to you and is vital to your research. A thorough evaluation of your animal colonies provides the information you need to ensure that your colonies’ health meets facility and research standards. We have a range of Health Monitoring (HM) Protocols for rodent and rabbit species.
Services included as part of our HM Protocols are as follows:
- Necropsy and sample collection
- Serology to detect antibodies to important opportunistic pathogens
- Microbiology for culturing and identification of microorganisms
- Infectious disease PCR testing to detect important opportunistic pathogens
- Histopathology for processing and interpretation of tissues
Our HM Laboratory is staffed with AALAS-certified technologists and overseen by ACVP board-certified veterinary pathologists. In addition to routine health surveillance, we provide prompt and thorough diagnostic necropsy evaluation of sick animals to assist in the detection of unexpected disease in laboratory animals. Our veterinary staff will review the history and devise an assessment plan that may include any or all of our testing services performed in accordance with customer specifications.
Charles River is a firm advocate of animal health and safety. In adherence to our strict animal welfare policy, we request that all live animal submissions are scheduled in advance with Technical Services (1.800.338.9680 or comments@crl.com). Advance scheduling will ensure that your animals arrive safely and are processed in a timely fashion.
We provide IATA-compliant shipping materials (Gnoto-safe™ live-animal shippers, shipping labels, etc.) free of charge to all Charles River customers. To request materials and schedule your animal submission, simply contact Technical Services. If you would like consultation for your health surveillance program or a cost estimate, please complete our confidential on-line Diagnostic Services Quote Form or contact Technical Services.