Supply of dogs and cats for use in research
Under the Animal Research Act 1985, special conditions relate to the supply of dogs and cats for use in research. (See Schedule 1 Part 3 and 4 of the Animal Research Regulation 2005). These conditions apply unless the dogs and cats fit into one of the categories of exemption from the supply provisions as listed in Schedule 3 of the Regulation.
These special conditions include:
- If dogs and cats are to be used in research, they may only be obtained from a licensed animal supplier.
- Dogs and cats may not be supplied by an impounding authority (eg a council pound) to a licensed animal supplier for use in research.
- Dogs and cats may not be supplied to a licensed animal supplier unless they are accompanied by a declaration by the owner (or agent of the owner) that approval is given for their use in animal research. (See Form N (21 kb, PDF) Licensed Animal Supplier Record for Dogs and Cats)
- Unowned (stray) dogs and cats cannot be supplied to a licensed animal supplier for use in research.
- Dogs and cats may not be supplied for research until they have been held for at least 5 working days by the animal supplier.
- Within 3 days of arrival at the animal supply unit, dogs and cats must receive a comprehensive clinical examination by a veterinary surgeon and must be given any treatment considered necessary by the veterinary surgeon.
- Records relating to the care and supply or release of dogs and cats must be kept. (See Form N (21 kb, PDF) Licensed Animal Supplier Record for Dogs and Cats)
Under the Companion Animals Act 1998, there is an exemption from the requirement to register and microchip dogs and cats that are in the custody of:
- Accredited animal research establishments.
- Holders of Animal Research Authorities.
- Holders of animal supplier’s licences.
(See Clause 17 of the Companion Animals Regulation, 1999)
The exemption may be lost in some circumstances, such as if a dog has been declared dangerous.
Copies of the Animal Research Act 1985, the Animal Research Regulation 2005, the Companion Animals Act 1998 and the Companion Animals Regulation 1999 may be found on the website of the Parliamentary Counsel's Office at: