Reporting Animal Concerns

UC Merced's Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) is responsible for reviewing, and, if appropriate, investigating concerns involving care and use of animals at the institution resulting from public complaints received and/or reports from laboratory/research personnel/employees. 9 CRF 2.31

Who May Report

Any person, including university employees, students, volunteers, or members of the general public may report concerns involving the care and use of animals at UC Merced. Such concerns may be reported anonymously.

When and What to Report

Based on federal requirements, the IACUC has identified several kinds of reportable incidents to guide individuals in making their decisions including, but not limited to:

• A condition that is or may be a threat to the health or safety of animals;
• Conduct of animal-related activities or protocol modifications without prior IACUC review and approval;
• Continuing activities past protocol expiration date;
• Conduct of activities by uncertified and/or unlisted personnel; and
• Continuing noncompliance

If you believe mistreatment or noncompliance has occurred, timely reporting is essential to protect the animals involved and to facilitate investigation of the allegations.

How to Report an Animal Welfare Concern

Written reports are encouraged to assure a clear understanding of the issues raised, but may be verbal. Reports should contain as much specific, factual information as possible to allow for a full investigation and proper assessment of the nature, extent, and urgency of the concern.

Information should include, but not limited to, the nature, date, time, and location of the occurrence; the person(s) against whom the allegation is being made; and any supporting documentation.

Whom to Contact

Allegations may be reported directly to the IACUC, attending veterinarian or Department of Animal Research Services office.

Whistleblower Policy

Concerns may also be reported through the UC Whistleblower page. This page has additional information, including the Whistleblower Policy and the Whistleblower Protection Policy, a hotline number, and FAQs.

UC Whistleblower Hotline: 800-403-4744