ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of the important considerations associated with the care and use of agricultural animals regarding their environment and housing and highlights the available resources to assist program managers, veterinarians, and research staff. Both the proper management of agricultural animals and related compliance with animal care obligations will necessitate special attention to the purpose and requirements of research using agricultural animals. With the current emphasis on transdisciplinary scientific endeavors, it is not unlikely that an institution may be simultaneously conducting biomedical and agricultural research and teaching courses using farm animals housed within a shared facility. As with all research endeavors using animals, there are essential investments in constructing and maintaining facilities and equipment, providing for qualified staff and their training, veterinary care for animals, and the day-to-day requirements for overseeing colonies, herds, and flocks of animals. Agricultural animals can be housed in a variety of management systems, from extensive to intensive.
