An inspection conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture July 17 revealed further breaches of the Animal Welfare Act by the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
According to the report, the USDA found several offenses, including expired medications and cockroach-infested primate holding rooms.
An administrative law judge will determine if the non-compliant items disclosed in the USDA report are violations of federal regulations after a formal investigation.
The recent inspection was a follow-up of the USDA's December investigation, which charged the university with 20 violations, such as inadequate post-operative care of dogs and unsanitary facilities.
According to USDA spokesperson Dave Sacks, the USDA conducts inspections approximately once per year and as necessary. The frequency of inspections depends on the compliance history of the facility.
Rick Bogle, co-director of Madison's Alliance for Animals, which monitors the university's animal research ethics, said that in the context of the university's extensive history of violations, the recent offenses show its struggle to police its research.
Nonetheless, UW veterinary pathologist and advocate for animal research Richard Dubielzig said he ""has little experience with violations and is proud to say animals are used thoughtfully and responsibly at the university.""
The passing of Dane County Resolution 35, which the County's Executive and Health and Human Needs committees are currently considering, would create a citizens advisory panel for the study of primate experimentation within the county. If the panel were to be successful, Bogle suggested forming a second panel to examine the entire UW-Madison animal program.
Meanwhile, in June, the USDA affirmed a commitment to stronger enforcement of the Animal Welfare Act. Sacks said enforcement measures consist of fines, license suspensions and license revocations.
In order to hold facilities accountable, enforcement actions are shared in monthly press releases and inspection reports are available online for public access.
""The USDA is concerned about the non-compliant items that our inspectors have cited at the university because ensuring the welfare of the animals that we regulate is our primary mission,"" Sacks said. ""We will continue to monitor the facility so it comes into full compliance with all federal regulations. I can't speculate as to any enforcement actions, but please be assured that we will enforce the Animal Welfare act to its fullest extent.""
