SHREVEPORT, La. — LSU Health Shreveport has received continued full accreditation from AAALAC International, extending its uninterrupted accreditation to 41 years for its animal care and use program in biomedical research.
The institution has maintained accreditation from the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International since 1985. The voluntary designation recognizes research institutions for responsible animal care and use beyond minimum legal requirements.
Following its latest review, AAALAC International’s Council on Accreditation commended LSU Health Shreveport and its staff for maintaining “an excellent program of animal care and use.” The council renewed the institution’s full accreditation with no additional recommendations for improvement, according to LSU Health Shreveport.
“AAALAC accreditation signifies to the public that an institution’s animal care and use program meets the highest standards possible,” said Hugh Price, executive director of animal resources and attending veterinarian at LSU Health Shreveport.
“It demonstrates that animals receive the highest level of handling, husbandry and compassionate care, and that research involving animal models undergoes rigorous review by research professionals, veterinary staff and members of the community.”
The accreditation process includes an extensive internal evaluation of policies, animal housing and management, veterinary care and facilities. Independent evaluators then conduct an on-site assessment, with findings reviewed by AAALAC’s Council on Accreditation.
Accredited institutions undergo re-evaluation every three years to maintain their status.
Price said the institution’s continued participation reflects its commitment to accountability, research quality and animal welfare.
“LSU Health Shreveport has voluntarily sought this accreditation to assure the public that we maintain the highest standards of care and research activity at our institution,” Price said. “More than 40 years of continued Full Accreditation demonstrates the commitment of our faculty, staff and institutional leadership to maintaining those standards now and in the future.”