What are the definitions and classification for animal pain or distress ?
Potential Pain/Distress: Procedures are classified according to the level of potential pain or distress that the animal may experience. If more than slight or momentary pain and distress could be caused by the procedure, then relief must be provided (pain class B). If relief cannot be provided (pain class C), there must be scientific justification for withholding of relief, the justification must be included in the animal use protocol, and must be approved by the IACUC. Additional information can be found in USDA Animal Care Resource Guide, Policy #11, Painful Procedures.
