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NIH funds are allowed to pay for certain post-research efforts related to adoption of animals deemed suitable for adoption (see this FAQ and NIH Guide Notice). Adoption is defined as the legal transfer of ownership and responsibility of a suitable animal for non-research use following the completion of an NIH-conducted or supported animal activity at a recipient institution to an individual who can provide appropriate and humane living conditions for the adopted animal. Allowable costs for adoption may
NIH developed a webinar to help and encourage research facilities create adoption programs. Viewers can learn about:
- Establishing adoption, rehoming, retirement, and release programs depending on the animal species
- Developing institutional policies and criteria for suitable animals
- Logistical considerations
- Potential issues to overcome depending on state and local requirements
Research institutions have the flexibility to determine if they can create an adoption/rehoming/retirement program that meets the needs of the animals in their care. Successful post-research adoption/rehoming/retirement programs:
- Determine if rehoming is safe and medically appropriate, considering any effects on the animals and their well-being, human safety, and potential environmental impacts
- Address unique challenges, such as if extensive conditioning and socialization are needed, to successfully integrate into a home setting which may include other animals and/or children.
- Meet pertinent federal, state, and local laws and regulations for the transfer of animal ownership
- Coordinate with local animal shelters when appropriate
NIH funds are allowed to pay for certain post-research efforts related to adoption/rehoming/retirement of animals deemed suitable for adoption/rehoming/retirement (see this FAQ and NIH Guide Notice). Allowable costs may include:
- Charges incurred to prepare for the transfer of the animal upon completion of the research (but do not extend beyond the transfer to support the care and upkeep of the animals)
- Developing health certificates, transfer of ownership agreements, and other pertinent legal documents that identifies the terms and conditions of the transfer, health of the animal at the time of the transfer and relinquishes the institution of responsibility for the animal once the transfer has occurred.
- Diagnostic testing, appropriate vaccinations, and surgical sterilization that may be performed prior to the transfer as deemed necessary by the Attending Veterinarian
Note
NIH assumes no legal responsibility for any adoption program implemented at the NIH-supported recipient institution, or any matters arising from or related to the adoption of research animals.
These programs require time, monetary resources, staffing, and expertise. Careful consideration must be given to individual circumstances. Adoption/ programs should be initiated only when they contribute to the safety and well-being of the animals and the individual(s) receiving the animal. When it is a safe, feasible, and appropriate option, adoption is a rewarding process for both researchers and animals.
These programs require time, monetary resources, staffing, and expertise. Careful consideration must be given to individual circumstances. Adoption/rehoming/retirement programs should be initiated only when they contribute to the safety and well-being of the animals and the individual(s) receiving the animal. When it is a safe, feasible, and appropriate option, adoption/rehoming/retirement is a rewarding process for both researchers and animals. This NIH Record article also includes information about NIH’s post-research animal adoption/rehoming/retirement program.