Rodents from non-commercial sources pose the highest single risk of introducing infectious agents into The Division of Laboratory Animal Resources (DLAR) animal colonies. These rodents, therefore, are subjected to quarantine and intensive monitoring prior to release into established colonies. Non-commercial sources are defined as institutions that do not have closed colonies with intensive health monitoring programs. These include academic and other research institutions, small commercial breeding companies and certain colonies maintained by approved vendors (e.g. contract breeding).

Investigators requesting rodents from such sources for rederivations should allow 3-4 weeks for transaction.

Shipping Instructions

In order to obtain rodents from non-commercial sources, a “Web Animal Order” must be submitted. This is the same method used when ordering animals from a recognized vendor. Under the Vendor field select Outside Institution. Under the Ordering Comments field, include the following: the name of the exporting PI, the institution’s animal facility’s contact name, phone number, fax number and email address. Also include on the Ordering Comments section if rodents will be used for purposes other than for rederivation while in the Berg quarantine room. That request along with the health report need to be approved by the DLAR vet or staff. In addition, investigators must request that the donating institution provide recent health information on the colony of origin including: 1) A description of the rodent health monitoring program of the supplying institution; and 2) A copy of the past year's health report(s) for the colony from which the rodents are to be imported. The following test should be covered in all health reports received: SEND, PVM, MHV, TMEV, REO, MPUL, MPV, EDIM, LCMV, MAV, ECTRO, K, POLY, MTLV and MCMV. As well as bacteriology, parasitology, pathology and helicobacter reports. This health information can be faxed to DLAR at 212-263-8235. Animals should not be shipped until DLAR makes the final arrangements with the supplying institution to order and receive the rodents. Shipping must be door-to-door. DLAR does not have the capability of retrieving animals from the airport.

Procurement of rodents from international sources may require involvement of a fee-for-service import broker to expedite clearing through customs, to coordinate the necessary USDA paperwork, and deliver the mice to the facility. Costs for these services are fully recovered. Additional requirements must be met when importing animals harboring agricultural animal pathogens or biological agents (>BSL 2) from other countries. Specifically, an import permit must be submitted to and be approved by the USDA or the CDC. This process may take 4 to 6 weeks. Please contact a DLAR veterinarian for additional information.

Questions regarding procurement of rodents may be directed to Veterinary Technician Supervisor, 212-263-2883 or williv01@med.nyu.edu.

Version 2-2004