Animal Resources Branch (ARB)

The Animal Resources Branch (ARB) provides consultation on appropriate use of, care for, and protection of research animals and serves the animal research interests of the CDC community. The branch provides appropriate housing, husbandry and psychological enrichment for all research animals, as well as veterinary services, including clinical and surgical support for laboratory animals.

ARB personnel collaborate regularly with CDC Principal Investigators on research projects that require the use of laboratory animals and conduct applied research to improve the care and use of animals in research activities. The branch has developed and adheres to standard operating procedures for animal care and use in accordance with policies established by the Association for the Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care, International (AAALAC), the Animal Welfare Act and Regulations, The Guide for the Care & Use of Laboratory Animals, the CDC Institutional Animal Care & Use Committee (IACUC), and the CDC Animal Care and Use Program Office (ACUPO) to ensure that laboratory animal research procedures are carried out in the most humane manner.

Animal Resources Branch Activities

• Provide consultation and laboratory animal technology training to investigators
• Provide appropriate housing, husbandry and psychological enrichment for all research animals under guidelines of AAALAC and IACUC
• Provide veterinary services, including clinical and surgical support for laboratory animals
• Provide veterinary and logistical support for investigators in the field or remote locations