STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES for QUARANTINE OF HAMSTERS, GUINEA PIGS, CHINCHILLAS

COMPARATIVE MEDICINE LABORATORY ANIMAL FACILITIES

  1. Purpose:
    This procedure outlines the quarantine needs of hamsters, guinea pigs and chinchillas housed in the CM-LAF.
  2. Scope:
    This procedure applies to all CM-LAF and investigator personnel working with hamsters, guinea pigs and chinchillas.
  3. Procedure:
    1. Hamsters, guinea pigs, and chinchillas are procured from approved, licensed dealers.
    2. All newly-arrived animals are examined upon arrival. Minor, non-infectious problems are treated.
    3. Sick animals will be rejected. Animals found to be suffering will be evaluated by the veterinarian, and will be treated immediately or euthanatized.
    4. All animals are observed daily, and any abnormalities observed are evaluated. Any animal which has symptoms of infectious disease will be euthanatized and replaced by the vendor.
    5. All animals are quarantined for seven (7) days for a chronic study with a minimum of 3 days for an acute study. Any animal showing any symptom of disease within the quarantine period is euthanatized.
    6. If any animal in a group of newly-arrived animals shows symptoms of disease during the quarantine period, the entire group may be quarantined for an additional period of time, at the discretion of the veterinarian.
    7. Euthanasia is performed with an overdose of anesthetic (sodium pentobarbital) or CO2.
    8. All procedures must be documented.
    9. Acquisition of animals from non-approved sources or other institutions must be authorized by the Chief of Veterinary Services prior to the ordering of the animals.
      1. Unexpected arrival of animals from non-approved vendors or other sources may result in special quarantine, isolation, or euthanasia.
      2. Any costs associated with this must be paid by the Investigator.