Importing/Exporting Rodents

The DLAR routinely assists investigators in the importation and/or exportation of animals from other institutions (i.e. non-vendor sources). It is important for the investigator to plan ahead since there are numerous steps that have to be completed by both the sending and receiving institutions. There are charges associated with these requests, an estimate of the costs can be obtained from the Import/Export Coordinator, Sandra Scherrer.

All inquiries, questions or consultations should be directed to:

dlar_import-export@stonybrook.edu; Rachel.Brownlee@stonybrook.edu; Sandra.Scherrer@stonybrook.edu

Importation of Rodents

  1. The investigator must submit an “IMPORT Request Form” within Topaz > Animal Orders.
  2. With the information provided, the DLAR’s Import/Export Coordinator will contact the sending institution to request health information. All health information must be pre-reviewed by the veterinarian. 
  3. Quarantine space will be located and reserved for housing the incoming animals.
  4. The Import/Export Coordinator will contact the sending institution and arrange ground and/or air transportation. The investigator will be contacted regarding the anticipated day of arrival.

Quarantine Procedures for Rodents

  1. Healthy rodents approved for shipping will be received and housed in the clean quarantine area. 
  2. All rodents must remain in quarantine until import testing comes back negative (one to two weeks after arrival). 
  3. Investigators are discouraged from working with or breeding their animals while in quarantine, however, this may be possible with permission from a DLAR Veterinarian.

Exportation of Rodents

  1. The investigator must submit an “EXPORT” Request Form within Topaz > Animal Orders.
  2. With the information provided, the DLAR’s Import/Export Coordinator will contact the receiving institution to submit health information. 
  3. If the receiving institution requests additional tests, DLAR will work with the investigator to schedule, collect, and send samples for diagnostic testing. 
  4. After the receiving institution approves shipment, the Import/Export Coordinator will arrange ground and/or air transportation. The investigator will be contacted regarding the anticipated day of shipment.
  5. On the day of shipment, the Import/Export Coordinator will properly box all animals and oversee carrier pick-up. 

Special Restrictions

Please be aware that there may be airline travel restrictions due to extreme weather. The airlines will not accept animals for travel if the ambient temperatures at the shipping and receiving airports are outside their guidelines (usually <32°F or >80°F.) These restrictions may delay receipt of animals.