​NIH Internal Transfers

1. Co​mplete a Technical Service Request (TSR). Please include recent Health Surveillance Information as well as a recent Health Letter from the Originating Facility Veterinarian. Any other IC required forms may be attached to the TSR.
2. The TSR may also be used to request originating facility staff to prepare mice for the transfer. You will need to provide shipping containers and contact the originating facility for details.​
3. The receiving facility veterinarian will determine whether mice from the originating facility:
   • Will not be permitted to enter the receiving facility to protect the integrity of the research colony
   • ​Will need to be tested and/or isolated before entering the receiving facility
   • Will be allowed directly into the receiving facility
4. ​​​​Receiving Facility Managers will determine whether space is available for the transfer.
5. Once approval is obtained from receiving facility veterinarians and managers, shipment coordinators will assist with transfer details.​​
   

Imports to NIH​

Importing Rodents and Rodent Products to NIH

To import rodents from approved sources, orders are placed by the IC through Animal Procurement.

To import rodents from non-approved sources, an Online Rodent Import Application (ORIA) will be required. The DVR Rodent Import Officer (RIO) provides oversight for the introduction of rodents and rodent products from non-approved sources into NIH animal facilities based on the supportive evidence for absence of specific pathogenic agents.

When required, the RIO approves the designated quarantine location and release criteria for animals being introduced into NIH animal facilities. The RIO coordinates the use of the DVR Rodent Quarantine Facility or approves an alternate quarantine site.

The RIO also approves the introduction of rodent products for in vitro studies.

For additional information, please refer to this flow chart  and the NIH Policy ​Manual 3043-1.

To complete a permit for rodent imports, submit the ORIA.

Importing Non-Rodent Animals to NIH

DVR manages the quarantine services for newly purchased dogs, cats, non-human primates and livestock prior to entry onto the NIH animal colonies. 

Exports from NIH

1. Contact the originating facility veterinarian so that the colony health reports can be sent to the receiving facility veterinarian for authorization of the export.
2. Contact your IC shipment coordinator to arrange for transport once the export has been approved by the receiving facility.
3. For rodents, clearly label cages to be exported.  Just before the export, the originating facility veterinarian will need to assess the health of the mice to ensure fitness for travel.  Provide the veterinarian with an NIH Animal Health and Shipping Certificate.
4. A Technical Services Request (TSR) must be used to request originating facility staff to prepare animals for travel.  You will need to provide shipping containers, and contact the originating facility for details.
5. Some exports, particularly those to foreign countries, may require USDA forms and special requirements. Contact your IC shipping coordinator for details.