Sometimes you need a small bit of information, and you are not sure who to ask. Here are some common questions we hear on a regular basis.
OAV Resources
FAQs
What is the Attending Veterinarian (AV)?
The AV is also a federally required position. The AWA defines the AV as “a person who has graduated from a veterinary school accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association's Council on Education, or has a certificate issued by the American Veterinary Medical Association's Education Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates, or has received equivalent formal education as determined by the Administrator; has received training and/or experience in the care and management of the species being attended; and who has direct or delegated authority for activities involving animals at a facility subject to the jurisdiction of the Secretary.”
The AV has institution wide authority to ensure the provision of adequate veterinary care and to oversee the adequacy of other aspects of animal care and use. The AV is a member of the IACUC.
What is the Institutional Official (IO)?
The IO is a federally required individual who has authority to allocate any resources needed to ensure the Program of Animal Care and Use is effective. At the University of Kentucky, the Vice President for Research serves as the IO.
What is the difference between the AV and the Division of Laboratory Animal Resources (DLAR) and the IACUC?
The AV ensures that animals receive adequate veterinary care and oversees the adequacy of other aspects of animal care and use.
DLAR is a service unit under the Office of the Vice President for Research. DLAR supports the biomedical research community at UK by providing the highest quality veterinary services and humane care and treatment to the animals under their care. DLAR serves as a resource for knowledge and technical expertise for researchers. DLAR has been continuously accredited by the Association for the Assessment and Accreditation for Laboratory Animal Care, International (AAALAC, International).
The IACUC is charged with oversight and routine evaluation of the Program of Animal Care and Use. This includes all the activities as listed above (see FAQ 2)
In summary, the Program of Animal Care and Use requires the collaborative effort of the IO, the AV, the IACUC, as well as that of DLAR to ensure it functions effectively and in compliance with the law and other regulations.
Accreditation and Assurances
PHS assurance number D16-00217 (A3336-01)
USDA number 61-R-0002
AAALAC, Intl. Unit # 13 DLAR, most recent accreditation date: November 18, 2024