AAALAC stands for which organization name?

• A. American Association for Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care
• B. American Association for Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Committees
• C. American Association for Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Certification
• D. American Association for Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Caregivers

Answer: (A)

AAALAC is an international nonprofit organization that evaluates and accredits laboratory animal care and use programs around the world. Its full name is Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International. The word Assessment signals that they examine how effectively a program operates and meets standards, while Accreditation means formal recognition that the program conforms to those standards. The International part reflects its global reach. AAALAC accreditation demonstrates a facility’s commitment to high standards of animal welfare and humane care, typically aligning with established guidelines like the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals and related best practices. Evaluations involve thorough reviews of veterinary care, housing and husbandry, training, and how animal use is approved and carried out, focusing on the entire program rather than just individual components. The official name differs from the options given, which do not capture the full, exact title of the organization.