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Shipping Policy

Shipping Policy

The shipping company (courier) is selected by the receiving institution.  Upon transfer from the RRRC, animals become the responsibility of the shipper and any issues that arise during the shipping process are between the receiving institution and their chosen courier.  Should shipping delays occur, it is the responsibility of the receiving institution to work with the courier to ensure successful shipment.  The RRRC cannot be held responsible for loss of animals or health problems that occur once custody of the animals is assumed by the shipper.

If delays occur in shipping, the RRRC can work with the client and shipper to assist in determining an optimal solution.  This may include, but is not limited to, having the shipper identify a local source to maintain animals in a temperature controlled environment, checking animal health and supplementing food and water.  In cases where extended delay is inevitable, euthanasia may be required.  In these situations, the RRRC will determine accessibility of replacement animals, but additional costs to the client (or shipper) will be incurred.  Return of animals to the RRRC is not a viable option.

List of Courier Services

05.21.2026

Weather and Shipping

The welfare of the animals is of utmost importance and as we head into the summer months, inclement weather and excessive heat will delay/prevent shipments of live animals.  Be aware that hot temperatures between June and mid-September may negatively impact the ability of couriers to safely ship animals so please plan your live animal orders accordingly.

05.21.2026

Provide Your Input on NIH's Proposed Strategic Plan by May 26, 2026.

The NIH is currently seeking input for its next strategic plan, and a major focus of this framework involves the future of animal research. Because these high-level policies directly impact the future of the RRRC and your work, it’s crucial that the scientific community participates. The NIH has provided a short feedback form that only takes a few minutes to complete. Please consider submitting your input. URL: https://grants.nih.gov/news-events/nih-extramural-nexus-news/2026/03/nih-seeks-input-on-framework-for-next-nih-wide-strategic-plan   Comments must be submitted electronically through the submission website. Responses must be received on May 26, 2026, by 11:59:59 p.m. (ET). 

07.30.2025

Animal Models and New Approach Methodologies (NAMs)

NAMs are lab (e.g., organoids and iPSCs) or computer-based methods intended to expand our tools for modeling human biology and disease. While this field is rapidly evolving, the need for animal models remains, especially for situations where a complex biological system is necessary. In addition, animal models serve as vital in vivo controls for the validation and verification of emerging NAMs.