Advancing Research with Excellence in Animal Care
The Animal Resources Center (ARC) is dedicated to supporting the university community and private sector through high-quality animal care and research services.
Our accredited, highly regulated facility and expert personnel ensure the ethical, responsible, and humane use of laboratory animals in education and biomedical research.
Who We Are
As part of the Unit of Comparative Medicine at the Medical Sciences Campus (UPR), ARC oversees the care, housing, and welfare of laboratory animals.
We are committed to maintaining the highest standards in animal welfare, while enabling cutting-edge scientific research.
Regulatory Oversight
ARC operates under strict supervision by leading regulatory and accrediting organizations, ensuring full compliance with national and international standards.
We are overseen by:
- United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW)
- Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)
- AAALAC International
- ARC is the only multi-species facility in Puerto Rico authorized to conduct strictly regulated biomedical research.
Our Services
We provide comprehensive support through a modern vivarium and a team of highly trained professionals, ensuring ethical and compliant research practices.
Animal Care & Veterinary Services
- Daily husbandry and veterinary care
- Health monitoring and surveillance programs
- Specialized services tailored to research needs
Training & Education
- Training for students, researchers, and staff
- Proper handling, care, and use of laboratory animals
- Programs developed in coordination with IACUC
Research Support
- Assistance with animal procurement
- Guidance on species and strain selection
- Support in developing research protocols
Institutional Consulting
- Advice on facility design and operations
- Guidance on compliance and administration
- Support for institutions working with laboratory animals
Our Commitment
At ARC, we are committed to:
- Ethical and humane animal care
- Regulatory compliance and excellence
- Supporting innovative research
- Providing expert guidance to the scientific community
