R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24: RESEARCH FACILITIES AND SUPPLY FACILITIES"

R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24: RESEARCH FACILITIES AND SUPPLY FACILITIES, Animals for Research Act

Animals for Research Act

R.R.O. 1990, REGULATION 24

RESEARCH FACILITIES AND SUPPLY FACILITIES

Consolidation Period: From June 22, 2026 to the e-Laws currency date.

Last amendment: 193/26.

Legislative History: 179/92, 109/09, 193/26.

This is the English version of a bilingual regulation.

1. In this Regulation,

“anaesthetic” means a procedure that causes the loss of sensation of pain in the whole or any part of the body of an animal and “anaesthesia” and “anaesthetize” have corresponding meanings; (“anesthésique”, “anesthésie”, “anesthésier”)

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, section 1 of the Regulation is amended by adding the following definition: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 1 (1))

“CCAC Euthanasia Guidelines” means the document entitled “CCAC guidelines on: euthanasia of animals used in science”, prepared by the Canadian Council on Animal Care and published on its website, as that document exists from time to time; (“Lignes directrices du CCPA sur l’euthanasie”)

“communal” means containing more than one animal; (“commun”)

“environment” means the total of all the conditions and elements that make up the surroundings of an individual animal; (“environnement”)

“euthanasia” means the deliberate infliction of an intended death upon an animal other than death that arises directly as an immediate result of an experimental or testing procedure; (“euthanasie”)

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, the definition of “euthanasia” in section 1 of the Regulation is amended by striking out “means the deliberate infliction of an intended death upon an animal” and substituting “means to destroy an animal by the deliberate infliction of an intended death upon the animal”. (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 1 (2))

“game animal” means a game animal or fur-bearing animal as defined in the Game and Fish Act; (“gibier à poil”)

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, the definition of “game animal” in section 1 of the Regulation is revoked. (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 1 (3))

“intracardial” means delivered into the heart; (“intracardiaque”)

“intraperitoneal” means delivered into the abdominal cavity; (“intrapéritonéal”)

“intrathoracic” means delivered into the thoracic cavity; (“intrathoracique”)

“intravenous” means delivered into a vein; (“intraveineux”)

“livestock” means cattle, goats, horses, sheep or swine; (“bétail”)

“sanitize” means to clean for the purpose of controlling disease-producing organisms and “sanitized” has a corresponding meaning; (“désinfecter”, “désinfecté”)

“vermin” means an animal the presence of which may be harmful to the health, comfort or welfare of an animal in a research facility or supply facility. (“ravageurs”) R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 1.

(2) A reference in this Regulation to,

(a) a method set out in Table 1 to the CCAC Euthanasia Guidelines is a reference only to the particular method set out in the column entitled “Acceptable Methods” in that Table, and is not a reference to anything contained in the column entitled “Details and Cautions” or anything else set out in the CCAC Euthanasia Guidelines; or

(b) a method set out in Table 2 to the CCAC Euthanasia Guidelines is a reference only to the particular method set out in the column entitled “Methods” in that Table, and is not a reference to anything contained in the column entitled “Details and Cautions” or anything else set out in the CCAC Euthanasia Guidelines. O. Reg. 193/26, s. 1 (4).

2. Every research facility and supply facility shall,

(a) be located in a place free from conditions that might injuriously affect the sanitary operation of the research facility or supply facility; and

(b) be constructed in such manner that it is capable of being maintained in a sanitary condition. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 2.

3. Every part of a research facility or supply facility that is adjacent to any building that is part of a research facility or supply facility shall be maintained in a neat and orderly condition free of refuse, debris and vermin. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 3.

4. (1) This section applies to,

(a) every room that is used for the housing of animals in a research facility or supply facility or for surgical, experimental or testing procedures involving animals; and

(b) every room that is used for storing feed, bedding or waste or for the preparation of food in a research facility or supply facility. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 4 (1).

(2) Floors shall be,

(a) soundly constructed of hard, durable material;

(b) impervious to water;

(d) maintained in a good state of repair, free from cracks, holes and other damage. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 4 (2).

(3) Where there are floor drains,

(a) a floor drain and any trench installed in connection therewith that is used for waste disposal shall be flushed at such intervals as may be necessary to prevent any accumulation of waste that might impair the health or welfare of any animal in the room;

(b) the floor shall be so constructed and maintained that surface liquids thereon will drain into the drain; and

(c) the operator of a research facility or supply facility shall cause the drains to be examined as often as is necessary to ensure that they are functioning properly, have an adequate water seal and are not harbouring vermin. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 4 (3).

(4) Walls shall be,

(a) soundly constructed of hard, durable material;

(b) impervious to water to a height adequate for sanitary maintenance;

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, clause 4 (4) (b) of the Regulation is amended by striking out “to a height adequate for sanitary maintenance” at the end. (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 2 (1))

(d) maintained in a good state of repair free from cracks, holes and other damage. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 4 (4).

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, section 4 of the Regulation is amended by adding the following subsection: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 2 (2))

(4.1) With respect to a research facility registered under the Act or a supply facility whose operator is licensed under the Act on the day section 2 (2) of Ontario Regulation 193/26 comes into force, subsection (4),

(a) as it reads immediately before that day, continues to apply with respect to a room within the research facility or supply facility until the day the room that contains the wall is renovated; and

(b) as it reads on that day, applies to the wall on and after the day the room is renovated. O. Reg. 193/26, s. 2 (2).

(5) Where there is a door,

(a) every frame or moulding around the door opening shall be so constructed and maintained that it has no space or spaces capable of harbouring vermin; and

(b) the door shall be maintained in a good state of repair free from cracks, holes and other damage. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 4 (5).

(6) Where it is not practicable to sanitize any equipment that is in the room unless it is removed from the room, the opening of at least one door in the room shall be of sufficient size to permit the removal of the equipment from the room. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 4 (6).

(7) Where there is a window,

(a) every frame or moulding around the window opening shall be so constructed and maintained that it has no space or spaces capable of harbouring vermin;

(b) means shall be provided to prevent the effects of direct sunlight through the window;

(d) the window shall be maintained in a good state of repair free from cracks, holes and other damage. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 4 (7).

(8) Roofs and ceilings shall be,

(a) soundly constructed; and

(b) maintained in a good state of repair free from cracks, holes and other damage. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 4 (8).

(9) Light fixtures shall be so constructed and maintained as to be readily sanitized. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 4 (9).

(10) Where any pipe, drain, conduit or other service facility is installed through any floor, wall or ceiling, the place where the pipe, drain, conduit or other service facility enters or leaves the room shall be so sealed as to prevent the entrance of vermin into the room. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 4 (10).

(11) Alleyways and service aisles between cages or pens shall be of sufficient width to permit the safe and efficient movement of persons and equipment and shall not be used for storage or accumulation of materials or equipment of any kind. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 4 (11).

(12) Every room in a research facility or supply facility shall be maintained in a clean condition. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 4 (12).

(13) The operator of every research facility or supply facility shall take all reasonable steps to prevent the spread of and to destroy vermin and invertebrates that may be harmful to the health, comfort or welfare of any animal in the research facility or supply facility except only that such steps need not be taken to the extent that the presence of such vermin or invertebrates forms a necessary element in any research. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 4 (13).

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, the Regulation is amended by adding the following section: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 3)

4.1 (1) Subject to subsection (2), areas where cages are washed and all other parts of the research facility or supply facility that are accessible to animals, including corridors and hallways that are used to move animals between rooms, shall be,

(a) soundly constructed;

(b) impervious to water;

(d) maintained in a good state of repair free from cracks, holes and other damage. O. Reg. 193/26, s. 3.

(2) With respect to a research facility registered under the Act or a supply facility whose operator is licensed under the Act on the day section 3 of Ontario Regulation 193/26 comes into force, subsection (1) does not apply to an area referred to in subsection (1) within the research facility or supply facility until the day the area is renovated. O. Reg. 193/26, s. 3.

5. (1) Every room that is used for the housing of animals within a research facility or supply facility shall be equipped with a lighting system that is so designated, constructed and maintained that,

(a) it distributes light as evenly and with as little glare as possible; and

(b) it provides adequate light for the proper observation of every animal in the room. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 5 (1).

(2) In every twenty-four-hour period, every lighting system referred to in subsection (1) shall be so operated as to produce,

(a) in the case of diurnal animals, a minimum of eight continuous hours of light; and

(b) in the case of nocturnal animals, a maximum of sixteen continuous hours of light,

for the animals that are housed in the room except only that the system need not be so operated to the extent that the number of hours of light or the absence or reduction thereof forms a necessary element in any research. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 5 (2).

6. Every room that is used for the housing of animals within a research facility or supply facility shall at all times be ventilated by means of an air ventilation system that distributes either fresh air or recirculated air uniformly in the room without drafts so as to provide enough fresh air or recirculated air in the room for the health, welfare and comfort of the animals therein except only that the room need not be so ventilated to the extent that ventilation or the lack of ventilation forms a necessary element in any research. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 6.

7. In any room that is used for the housing of animals within a research facility or supply facility the temperature within the room shall be maintained,

(a) at a level that is as constant as may be practicable; and

(b) at a level that is suitable for the health, welfare and comfort of every animal that is housed in the room,

except only to the extent that the temperature forms a necessary element in any research. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 7.

8. The air in every room within a building that is part of a research facility or supply facility and that is used for the housing of animals shall be maintained at a relative humidity that is suitable for the health, comfort and welfare of any animal in the room except only to the extent that relative humidity forms a necessary element in any research. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 8.

9. (1) Where the research facility or supply facility receives animals that have been shipped or transported to the research facility or supply facility,

(a) the area in which the animals are placed at the time they are received shall be maintained in a sanitary condition;

(b) except in the case of germ-free or gnotobiotic animals, the animals shall be removed without undue delay from any shipping containers in which they have been shipped or transported;

(c) the animals shall be examined for disease by a person competent for the purpose as soon after receipt as may be practicable; and

(d) the operator shall take or cause to be taken all reasonable steps necessary to prevent the escape of the animals. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 9 (1).

(2) Where the operator of a research facility or supply facility rejects animals that have been shipped or transported to the research facility or supply facility, the operator shall take, or cause to be taken all steps reasonably necessary to provide for the health, welfare and comfort of the animals until the animals are transported from the premises of the research facility or supply facility or are destroyed. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 9 (2).

10. (1) The operator of every research facility and every supply facility shall ensure that there is, in the research facility or supply facility, an adequate number of persons competent in the care of animals to properly care for every animal in the research facility or supply facility. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 10 (1).

(2) Where the operator of a research facility or supply facility has been notified that animals are being shipped or transported to the research facility or supply facility, the operator shall cause a person to be present at the place where the animals are expected to arrive at such time as is reasonable to anticipate the arrival of the animals. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 10 (2).

11. Only persons competent to handle the species or type of animal being handled shall handle animals in a research facility or supply facility. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 11.

12. (1) Every dog or cat in a research facility shall be identified by tattoo, neckband, individual tag, physical mark or a tag or marking on the cage in which the animal is kept. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 12 (1).

(2) The operator of every research facility shall maintain within the research facility a record of every dog and cat in the research facility and shall preserve the record within the research facility for at least two years from the date that the dog or cat was last in the research facility and the record shall include,

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, subsection 12 (2) of the Regulation is amended by striking out the portion before clause (a) and substituting the following: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 4 (1))

(2) The operator of every research facility shall maintain within the research facility a record of every dog and cat in the research facility and shall preserve the record within the research facility for at least three years from the earlier of the date that the dog or cat was last in the research facility and the date the dog or cat died, and the record shall include,

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, subsection 12 (2) of the Regulation is amended by adding the following clause: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 4 (2))

(0.a) details about the housing and care of the dog or cat;

(a) the sex of the dog or cat;

(b) the estimated age and weight of the dog or cat;

(d) the breed or type of the dog or cat;

(e) the name of the person from whom the dog or cat was purchased or otherwise acquired and the date thereof where the dog or cat was not born in the research facility;

(f) any invoice, bill of sale or like record of the purchase of the dog or cat; and

(g) the allocation of the dog or cat. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 12 (2).

(3) The operator of every research facility shall maintain within the research facility a record of all animals in the research facility other than dogs or cats and shall preserve the record within the research facility for at least one year from the date that the animals entered the research facility and the record shall include,

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, subsection 12 (3) of the Regulation is amended by striking out the portion before clause (a) and substituting the following: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 4 (3))

(3) The operator of every research facility shall maintain within the research facility a record of every animal in the research facility other than a dog or cat and shall preserve the record within the research facility for at least three years from the earlier of the date that the animal was last in the research facility and the date the animal died, and the record shall include,

(a) the date of arrival of the animals;

(b) the name of the person from whom the animals are purchased or otherwise acquired; and

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, subsection 12 (3) of the Regulation is amended by striking out “and” at the end of clause (b) and by adding the following clause: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 4 (4))

(b.1) details about the housing and care of the animals; and

(4) Every licensed operator of a supply facility shall maintain within the supply facility for a period of one year from the date of purchase or sale a record of all animals purchased or sold by the licensed operator and the record shall include,

(a) the date of such purchase or sale; and

(b) the name of the person from whom or to whom the animals were purchased or sold, as the case may be. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 12 (4).

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, section 12 of the Regulation is amended by adding the following subsection: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 4 (5))

(4.1) Every licensed operator of a supply facility shall maintain within the supply facility a record of every animal or group of animals that is euthanized by the licensed operator for a period of one year from the date the animal or group of animals is euthanized and the record shall include the date the animal or group of animals was euthanized and the method of euthanasia used. O. Reg. 193/26, s. 4 (5).

12.1 The records that an operator of a registered research facility is required to retain under subsection 17 (3.2) of the Act must be kept at the research facility for at least three years after,

(a) if the research project is carried out, the date the research project ends; or

(b) if a decision was made not to proceed with the research project, the date the decision was made. O. Reg. 193/26, s. 5.

13. Every cage, tank or pen used in a research facility or supply facility for the housing of animals shall be so constructed and maintained that,

(a) except in the case of fish and snakes, every animal in the cage, tank or pen may comfortably,

(i) extend its legs to their full extent,

(ii) stand,

(iii) sit, and

(iv) lie down, and in the case of animals other than livestock, turn around and lie down in a fully extended position;

(b) in the case of fish and snakes, every animal in the cage, tank or pen shall have adequate room for its health, welfare and comfort;

(d) every animal therein may be readily observed unless the natural habits of the animal otherwise require;

(e) any animal therein cannot readily escape therefrom;

(f) it minimizes as nearly as practicable the transfer of pathogenic agents; and

(g) it may be readily sanitized. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 13.

14. Where a group of animals in a research facility or supply facility are housed in a communal cage, tank, pen or enclosed compound, no individual animal shall be placed in the cage, tank, pen or enclosed compound with the group of animals where the placing of the individual animal would result in harm to any of the animals and, where the behavior of animals in any cage, tank, pen or enclosed compound is such that harm is likely to result, any animal or animals whose removal will prevent the harm from occuring shall forthwith be removed. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 14.

15. Pregnant mammals in a research facility or supply facility shall, prior to parturition, be,

(a) so handled as to prevent injury to the animal; and

(b) maintained in a cage or pen that is,

(i) suitably designed for the safe delivery of the young,

(ii) equipped with a floor that is so constructed and maintained that it has a surface that will not cause any injury to the animals therein,

(iii) equipped with a parturition environment of a type suitable for the animal, and

(iv) provided with heat, light and ventilation adequate for the health, comfort and safety of the animal and its young. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 15.

16. (1) This section applies to all tanks, pens, stalls, cages or enclosed compounds in every research facility or supply facility used for the housing of animals therein, other than a tank, cage, pen or enclosed compound that is so constructed and maintained as to stimulate, as closely as practicable, the natural environment of the animal or animals therein. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 16 (1).

(2) Litter or bedding material in every cage, pen, stall or enclosed compound shall be changed as often as is necessary to keep it dry, clean and free of noxious fumes. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 16 (2).

(3) Tanks, pens, stalls, cages, enclosed compounds and collecting pans for the collection of excreta and waste shall be cleaned and any excreta or waste therein removed as often as is necessary for the health and comfort of every animal therein. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 16 (3).

(4) Every animal that is housed in a cage or pen shall be removed from its cage or pen and changed to a freshly sanitized cage or pen as often as is necessary for its health and comfort. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 16 (4).

(5) No animal shall be placed in a cage or pen that is vacant and of which it has not been the last occupant unless the cage or pen and equipment used in connection therewith have first been sanitized. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 16 (5).

(6) Where a cage is cleaned or sanitized, the cage tack or portion thereof used in connection with the cage shall be cleaned or sanitized at the same time. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 16 (6).

(7) Every animal shall be protected against liquid spray while a cage, pen or enclosed compound is being cleaned. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 16 (7).

(8) Every device used to supply drinking water to an animal shall be maintained in a sanitary condition and shall be so constructed and maintained as to ensure,

(a) that the animal is receiving water; and

(b) that the device is functioning properly. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 16 (8).

(9) Every container for food or water shall be maintained in a sanitary condition. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 16 (9).

17. (1) Every animal in a research facility or supply facility shall be supplied with food of a type and in amounts nutritionally adequate for the species and that is palatable and free from contamination. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 17 (1).

(2) Subsection (1) does not apply to an animal that is in a research facility and being used for research in which the diet of the animal forms an essential element of the research but only to the extent that is necessitated by the research. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 17 (2).

(3) Water and food, other than fresh vegetable matter, for a mammal or bird in a research facility or supply facility shall be provided in containers or devices that may be readily sanitized and that do not interfere with the activities referred to in clause 13 (a), and food shall not be placed directly on the floor of the cage, pen or enclosed compound in which the animal is located. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 17 (3).

(4) Subsection (3) does not apply in the case of,

(a) young animals;

(b) germ-free or gnotobiotic animals;

(d) animals housed in a cage where the animals are destroyed not later than ten days after being placed in the cage;

(e) non-human primates; and

(f) mink and ferrets where the food is placed on the top of the cage or pen. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 17 (4).

(5) Every animal in a research facility or supply facility shall be supplied with adequate amounts of potable water. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 17 (5).

(6) Subsection (5) does not apply to an animal that is in a research facility and is being used for research in which the water intake of the animal forms an essential element of the research but only to the extent that is necessitated by the research. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 17 (6).

(7) Where an animal in a cage or pen is fed with perishable food, the remnants of the food shall be removed from the cage or pen every day. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 17 (7).

(8) Culled vegetable matter or cuttings from institutional kitchens, stores, restaurants and other like sources shall not be supplied to animals in a research facility or supply facility. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 17 (8).

(9) Subsections (3) and (7) do not apply to animals that are housed in an environment that is intended to simulate, as closely as possible, the natural environment of the animals. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 17 (9).

18. (1) In every research facility or supply facility, waste materials and excreta shall be collected and disposed of in a sanitary manner. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 18 (1).

(2) In any research facility or supply facility the carcass of an animal shall be,

(a) forthwith removed from its cage, tank, pen or enclosed compound; and

(b) forthwith, except for the whole or a part of a carcass that is retained in a sanitary manner for research other than a post mortem examination,

(i) disposed of,

(ii) taken to a post mortem room for post mortem examination and, after the post mortem examination, forthwith disposed of, or

(iii) placed in a waterproof container and then kept refrigerated or frozen until it can be taken to a post mortem room for post mortem examination and, after the post mortem examination, forthwith disposed of. O. Reg. 109/09, s. 1.

(3) Subject to subsection (5), a carcass that is to be disposed of under subsection (2) shall be disposed of by,

(a) burying it with a covering of at least two feet of earth;

(b) incineration;

(c) in compliance with subsection (4), delivering it to a disposal facility or approved waste disposal site as defined in Ontario Regulation 105/09 (Disposal of Deadstock) made under the Food Safety and Quality Act, 2001; or

(d) placing it in a disposal pit of a type and constructed in a manner approved by the Director as providing equivalent protection to the public as a method mentioned in clause (b) or (c). O. Reg. 109/09, s. 1.

(4) Where a carcass is to be delivered to a disposal facility or an approved waste disposal site under clause (3) (c), the operator of the research facility or supply facility may use the services of a collector licensed under Ontario Regulation 105/09 (Disposal of Deadstock) made under the Food Safety and Quality Act, 2001 or the operator’s own vehicle, trailer or transport container, so long as this vehicle, trailer or transport container meets the requirements specified in section 23 Ontario Regulation 106/09 (Disposal of Dead Farm Animals) made under the Nutrient Management Act, 2002 for a vehicle, trailer or transport container that can be used to transport dead farm animals. O. Reg. 109/09, s. 1.

(5) If the research facility or supply facility is located on a farm operation as defined in Ontario Regulation 106/09 (Disposal of Dead Farm Animals) made under the Nutrient Management Act, 2002, the carcass shall be disposed of as if it were a dead farm animal under that Regulation. O. Reg. 109/09, s. 1.

19. (1) In any research facility or supply facility the operator thereof shall take or cause to be taken all steps practicable to treat and prevent the spread of any disease found in any animal and to prevent distress to any animal except only that such steps need not be taken to the extent that they form a necessary element in research. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 19 (1).

(2) The operator of every research facility or supply facility shall provide an inspector with such garments as the operator deems necessary to protect the health of animals in the research facility or supply facility. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 19 (2).

20. (1) All water provided in any tank, cage or pen for the use of Amphibia in a research facility or supply facility shall be kept free of contamination that is likely to cause harm to the Amphibia. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 20 (1).

(2) Every tank, cage or pen used for housing Amphibia in a research facility or supply facility shall be so constructed and maintained as to provide a suitable resting area readily accessible at all times to any Amphibia in the tank, cage or pen. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 20 (2).

(3) Live insects provided as food for any Amphibia in a research facility or supply facility shall be so handled as to prevent their escape. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 20 (3).

21. (1) Every cat received at a research facility, before being used in connection with any research, other than research carried out within ten days of the arrival of the cat and that will result in the death of the cat within that time, shall be,

(a) immunized against, or treated for, disease in such manner as is appropriate to maintain the health and comfort of the cat unless the cat is to be used for research in which the use of a cat that has not been so immunized or treated is a necessary element; and

(b) housed for a sufficient length of time to accustom it to the normal environment provided for cats in the research facility. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 21 (1).

(2) Every cat housed in a research facility or supply facility shall be supplied with litter material for the collection of excreta and waste. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 21 (2).

(3) Every communal cage and pen used for the housing of cats in a research facility or supply facility shall be equipped with resting perches so constructed and maintained as to provide clean, dry and safe surfaces of sufficient size to permit the cats to lie down in comfort and the resting perches shall not all be at the same height. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 21 (3).

22. (1) Every dog received at a research facility, before being used in connection with any research, other than research carried out within ten days of the arrival of the dog and that will result in the death of the dog within that time, shall be,

(a) immunized against, or treated for, disease in such manner as is appropriate to maintain the health and comfort of the dog unless the dog is to be used for research in which the use of a dog that has not been so immunized or treated is a necessary element; and

(b) housed for a sufficient length of time to accustom it to the normal environment provided for dogs in the research facility. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 22 (1).

(2) Where a dog has been housed for twenty-one days in a cage that is not at least twice the height of the dog measured to the point of the withers and the dog has not had reasonable daily access to an exercise area outside of the cage, the dog shall be housed in a cage or pen that is at least twice the height of the dog measured to the point of the withers. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 22 (2).

(3) Every pen used for the housing of dogs in any research facility or supply facility shall be so constructed and maintained as to provide a clean, dry and safe surface adequate to permit the dogs to lie down in comfort at all times. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 22 (3).

23. (1) Every door in a room in a research facility or supply facility that is used for housing non-human primates shall be equipped with a device adequate to prevent the escape of any such primate from the room. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 23 (1).

(2) Every non-human primate shall, forthwith upon arrival at a research facility and at such further intervals as may be appropriate, having regard to all of the circumstances, be tested for tuberculosis in a manner adequate to disclose the presence of tuberculosis in the primate. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 23 (2).

(3) Every non-human primate found to have tuberculosis by a test under subsection (2) shall be isolated from other non-human primates that have not been found to have tuberculosis or shall be humanely destroyed except only that such steps need not be taken to the extent that the spread of tuberculosis forms a necessary element in research. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 23 (3).

(4) No person who is known to have active tuberculosis shall be employed in the care of non-human primates. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 23 (4).

(5) Every non-human primate received at a research facility, before being used in connection with any research, other than research carried out within ten days of the arrival of the non-human primate and that will result in the death of the non-human primate within that time, shall be individually housed for a sufficient length of time to accustom it to the normal environment provided for non-human primates in the research facility. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 23 (5).

(6) No person shall house a non-human primate in a restraint chair but a restraint chair may be used to the extent necessitated by the nature of an experiment. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 23 (6).

(7) Where non-human primates are housed in a communal cage or pen, not more than twenty-five non-human primates shall be housed in the cage or pen. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 23 (7).

24. (1) Live animals or insects provided as food for any reptiles in a research facility or supply facility shall be so handled as to prevent their escape. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 24 (1).

(2) Every cage in which snakes are housed in a research facility or supply facility shall contain a quantity of suitable materials sufficient to permit snakes to shed their skins in a normal manner. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 24 (2).

(3) Where venomous reptiles are housed in a research facility or supply facility,

(a) every door in any room used for housing such reptiles shall be equipped with an effective locking device; and

(b) every door referred to in clause (a) shall be kept securely closed when there is no person in the room. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 24 (3).

25. (1) In any research facility or supply facility an animal may be housed outdoors subject to the following conditions:

1. The animal shall not be removed from indoor housing and placed in outdoor housing or removed from outdoor housing and placed in indoor housing where to do so would result in a change in environment likely to cause harm or discomfort to the animal.

2. The animal shall be provided with adequate potable water.

3. The surface on which the outdoor housing is established shall be so maintained as to rapidly drain all excess surface water that is not required by the species of animal so housed.

4. The cage, pen, compound or field in which the animal is kept shall be so fenced as to,

(a) protect the animal from predators; and

(b) prevent the animal from escaping.

5. The cage, pen or compound used for outdoor housing of the animal shall be kept in a clean condition free from any materials or equipment likely to cause harm to the animal.

6. The cage, pen, compound or field in which the animal is kept shall have therein shelter,

(a) readily accessible to the animal;

(b) large enough to comfortably accommodate all of the animals in the cage, pen, compound or field;

(d) that is dry and well drained.

7. The animal shall be provided with sufficient clean bedding material to maintain its health, welfare and comfort. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 25 (1).

(2) In any research facility, where an animal that is not a domesticated animal is used in a research project, the animal may be housed outdoors, provided that the conditions under which it is housed simulate the natural environment of the animal in all material respects. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 25 (2).

26. (1) Where surgical procedures are performed on an animal with the intention that the animal recover from anaesthesia, the procedures shall be carried out in accordance with established veterinary practice in a surgery area that is maintained in a sanitary condition and designated for the purpose. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 26 (1).

(2) Every surgery area referred to in subsection (1) shall be equipped with all equipment necessary to provide for the health and welfare of the animal during surgery. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 26 (2).

27. (1) Every research facility in which an animal is subjected to surgical procedures performed with the intention that the animal survive shall have a post-operative recovery area equipped with,

(a) cages or pens appropriate for the animal, so constructed and maintained as to provide appropriate temperature control, cleanliness, ease of observation, ready access to the animal for emergency and supportive therapy purposes and so constructed and maintained that the animal is not likely to injure itself; and

(b) sufficient materials and equipment to provide for treatment of an animal during the post-operative period. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 27 (1).

(2) During the post-operative recovery period, the person who was responsible for the procedure shall provide or cause to be provided appropriate post-operative care in accordance with established veterinary practices. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 27 (2).

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, section 27 of the Regulation is amended by adding the following subsection: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 6 (1))

(2.1) Every registered research facility in connection with which an animal is subjected to surgical procedures performed with the intention that the animal will survive shall ensure its protocol for how animals will be used in research describes the removal of non-ambulatory animals from the post-operative recovery area. O. Reg. 193/26, s. 6 (1).

(3) No animal shall be removed from the post-operative recovery area until it has recovered from anaesthesia. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 27 (3).

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, subsection 27 (3) of the Regulation is revoked and the following substituted: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 6 (2))

(3) No animal shall be removed from the post-operative recovery area in a research facility until it is ambulatory or may be removed in accordance with the protocol referred to in subsection (2.1). O. Reg. 193/26, s. 6 (2).

28. (1) Where euthanasia is carried out with respect to any animal in a research facility or supply facility, it shall be carried out,

(a) by a person or persons properly trained in the euthanasia procedure to be used;

(b) in such manner that the death of the animal occurs without unnecessary pain, delay or discomfort; and

(c) in a manner that does not endanger or disturb other animals in the research facility or supply facility. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 28 (1).

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, subsection 28 (1) of the Regulation is amended by striking out “and” at the end of clause (b) and by adding the following clauses: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 7 (1))

(d) in a manner that results in rapid loss of consciousness, followed by or accompanied by cessation of respiratory and cardiac function and an ultimate loss of brain function; and

(e) using a method of euthanasia that is appropriate for the species, age and health status of the animal.

(2) No person shall use an euthanasia procedure with respect to any animal in a research facility or supply facility unless it is a procedure that is permitted under section 29, 30, 31 or 32. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 28 (2).

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, subsection 28 (2) of the Regulation is revoked and the following substituted: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 7 (2))

(2) After euthanasia is carried out, the operator of the research facility shall ensure the death of the animal has been verified before the disposal of the remains of the animal. O. Reg. 193/26, s. 7 (2).

(3) No person shall use a euthanasia method with respect to any animal in a research facility or supply facility unless it is a method that is permitted under sections 29 to 32. O. Reg. 193/26, s. 7 (2).

29. (1) This section applies to euthanasia of coldblooded animals other than by the use of chemicals. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 29 (1).

(2) The following euthanasia procedures are permitted:

1. In the case of Amphibia and reptiles, the insertion of a sharp instrument between the skull and atlas and into the cranial cavity.

2. In the case of fish, the striking of a strong blow to the head behind the eyes.

3. In the case of all cold-blooded animals, decapitation.

4. In the case of all cold-blooded animals, cervical dislocation. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 29 (2).

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, section 29 of the Regulation is revoked and the following substituted: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 8)

29. (1) Subject to subsection (3), euthanasia may be carried out with respect to an animal in a research facility using an acceptable method set out in Table 1 (Summary Chart of Acceptable Methods of Euthanasia for Experimental Animals) to the CCAC Euthanasia Guidelines that is applicable to the animal’s classification and common name as set out in that Table. O. Reg. 193/26, s. 8.

(2) Subject to subsection (3), euthanasia may be carried out with respect to an animal in a research facility using a conditionally acceptable method set out in Table 2 (Conditionally acceptable methods) to the CCAC Euthanasia Guidelines that is applicable to the animal’s species as set out in that Table, if all of the following circumstances exist:

1. It is not reasonable or feasible to use a method set out in Table 1 (Summary Chart of Acceptable Methods of Euthanasia for Experimental Animals) to the CCAC Euthanasia Guidelines due to the nature of the research being conducted or to emergency circumstances that arise during the course of the research, and such justification is set out in the research facility’s protocol for how animals will be used in research.

2. Specific rules for the use of the method are clearly set out in the research facility’s protocol for how animals will be used in research.

3. The personnel administering the method are appropriately trained in the particular method of euthanasia. O. Reg. 193/26, s. 8.

(3) Subsections (1) and (2) do not apply with respect to the following animals:

1. Animals referred to by the common name “fish” in Table 1 mentioned in subsection (1) or as the species “fish” in Table 2 mentioned in subsection (2).

2. Animals referred to by the common name “wildlife”, “free-ranging mammals” or “free-ranging birds” in Table 1 mentioned in subsection (1). O. Reg. 193/26, s. 8.

30. (1) This section applies to euthanasia of coldblooded animals by the use of chemicals. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 30 (1).

(2) The following euthanasia procedures are permitted:

1. In the case of all Amphibia or reptiles,

(a) injection of barbiturates;

(b) injection of procaine hydrochloride;

(d) the administration of chloroform by inhalation;

(e) the administration of ether by inhalation; and

(f) injection of chlorobutanol saturated solution.

2. In the case of fish,

(a) the suspension in water of tricaine methanesulfonate;

(b) the suspension in water of 2-methylquinoline; and

3. In the case of Amphibia, the suspension in water of tricaine methanesulfonate. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 30 (2).

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, section 30 of the Regulation is revoked and the following substituted: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 8)

30. (1) Subject to subsection (2), euthanasia may be carried out with respect to an animal in a supply facility using,

(a) an acceptable method set out in Table 1 (Summary Chart of Acceptable Methods of Euthanasia for Experimental Animals) to the CCAC Euthanasia Guidelines that is applicable to the animal’s classification and common name as set out in that Table; or

(b) a conditionally acceptable method set out in Table 2 (Conditionally acceptable methods) to the CCAC Euthanasia Guidelines that is applicable to the animal’s species as set out in that Table. O. Reg. 193/26, s. 8.

(2) Subsection (1) does not apply with respect to the following animals:

1. Animals referred to by the common name “fish” in Table 1 mentioned in subsection (1).

2. Animals referred to by the common name “wildlife”, “free-ranging mammals” or “free-ranging birds” in Table 1 mentioned in subsection (1). O. Reg. 193/26, s. 8.

31. (1) This section applies to euthanasia of warm-blooded animals other than by use of chemicals. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 31 (1).

(2) The following euthanasia procedures are permitted:

1. In the case of all mammals, exsanguination, but only where the animal is completely anaesthetized prior to and during the procedure.

2. In the case of birds and rodents, cervical dislocation.

3. In the case of livestock and dogs, electrocution but only where the electrocution equipment is approved by the Director.

4. In the case of rodents, decapitation, but only with equipment that is approved by the Director. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 31 (2).

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, section 31 of the Regulation is revoked and the following substituted: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 8)

31. The following euthanasia methods are permitted in a research facility or supply facility with respect to an animal referred to by the common name “fish” in Table 1 (Summary Chart of Acceptable Methods of Euthanasia for Experimental Animals) to the CCAC Euthanasia Guidelines:

1. The administration of anaesthesia to the point of loss of equilibrium, followed by a physical or chemical method to cause brain death.

2. If the method described in paragraph 1 is not feasible, the physical destruction of brain tissue by pithing or crushing the brain. O. Reg. 193/26, s. 8.

32. (1) This section applies to euthanasia of warm-blooded animals by the use of chemicals. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 32 (1).

(2) The following euthanasia procedures are permitted:

1. Administration of barbiturates intravenously, intracardially, intrathoracically or intraperitoneally.

2. Administration of tribromoethanol rectally or orally other than in the case of dogs.

3. Slow intravenous administration of Hoechst Pharmaceutical product T-61.

4. Administration of chloral hydrate intraperitoneally, intravenously or orally.

5. Administration of ether by inhalation.

6. Administration of carbon dioxide by inhalation.

7. Administration of chloroform by inhalation. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 24, s. 32 (2).

Note: On January 1, 2027, the day section 7 of Schedule 1 to the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, 2026 comes into force, section 32 of the Regulation is revoked and the following substituted: (See: O. Reg. 193/26, s. 8)

32. The following rules apply in regards to the carrying out of euthanasia in a research facility with respect to an animal referred to by the common name “wildlife”, “free-ranging mammals” or “free-ranging birds” in Table 1 (Summary Chart of Acceptable Methods of Euthanasia for Experimental Animals) to the CCAC Euthanasia Guidelines:

1. The method of euthanasia chosen should minimize pain and discomfort and not prolong death unnecessarily.

2. The method of euthanasia chosen should be suited to the objectives of the research.

3. The operator of the facility shall consider,

i. techniques that least interfere with necropsy procedures or analysis, and

ii. techniques for similar animals that are listed in the CCAC Euthanasia Guidelines. O. Reg. 193/26, s. 8.