In the United States Animal Welfare Act, §2132 Definitions, (g), “The term ‘animal’ means any live or dead dog, ….as the Secretary may determine is being used, or is intended for use, for research, testing, experimentation, or exhibition purposes, or as a pet; …” (emphasis added). Thus, one could make a good case that Great Eastern University’s IACUC approval is needed for the specified activities. IACUC approval would also be justified given the stated facts that the students and faculty advisor are associated with the university and, most importantly, that the activities involving the dogs are occurring on university property, which at least implies university approval of the content of the activities.

All of these facts aside, what would be the harm of asking for IACUC approval? As described, the CAFE club’s activities are unlikely to be controversial, nor would there seem to be any significant animal welfare issues since all of the dogs are owned by the participants; thus, a well-written protocol should have little problem being approved.

Finally, although the risk may be slim, there is always the possibility that one of the participants could be injured by an animal bite or physical trauma from mishandling of the dogs. IACUC approval of a well-written protocol that includes adequate preventive procedures and “Hold harmless” agreements to be provided by participants could possibly mitigate the university’s liability in such an event.