Reference Resources

Updated January 2026

AAALAC relies on what it refers to as the “Three Primary Standards” that are used by the Council on Accreditation to evaluate animal care and use programs. Supplementing these primary standards, and applicable Legislation/Regulations, are AAALAC “Position Statements,” “Guidance Statements” and “Reference Resources” (listed below). Council has also developed a list of answers to “Frequently Asked Questions” to further clarify AAALAC’s expectations.

(Click here for a full Overview of Accreditation Standards.)

Reference Resources

Since 1975, AAALAC International has referred to specialty publications for supplemental information about procedures or techniques related to the care and use of laboratory animals. These specialty publications are designated as Reference Resources. References included on this list have been formally reviewed and adopted by AAALAC International's Council on Accreditation as guidance for accredited units as well as the AAALAC International representatives during the site visit. Additionally, these references may be utilized during Council deliberations when discussing issues identified during site visits.

Resources are categorized into:

• Reference Resources: references that can be utilized during the evaluation of issues that may result in findings during the accreditation assessment.
• Items of Interest: references serve as items of interest or guidance that illustrate good practices.

When applicable, clarifying notes are appended to the Reference Resource to provide additional information on any exclusions or clarification in the reference.

(Click here to view a print-friendly version of AAALAC's Reference Resources.)