IACUC Guideline:

Toe Clipping

Toe-clipping (removal of the first bone of certain toes, corresponding to a predetermined numbering code), as a method of identification of small rodents, should be used only when no other individual identification method is feasible and should be performed only on altricial neonates.” The evaluation and approval criteria are set forth in the U.S. Government Principles for the Utilization and Care of Vertebrate Animals Used in Testing, Research and Training, and the Guide.

Toe clipping can be considered under the following conditions:

• This method should only be used when no other less invasive method is available. All available alternative methods of identification must first be considered.
• A written explanation of why it is necessary is required, including a discussion of why alternate methods are unsatisfactory. This will be considered and must be approved by the IACUC.
• It should only be performed when mice are between 5-10 days of age and the minimum number of toes is to be clipped. A local anesthetic (e.g. lidocaine, bupivacaine, local anesthetic spray) needs to be applied on the site of amputation.
• Sharp, sterile iris scissors or a scalpel blade must be used and the foot should be cleaned with a dilute provodone iodine solution (e.g. Betadine).
• The Attending Veterinarian should review the technique/procedure.
  

The section on Identification and Records (Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Guide) NRC 1996) indicates the following means of animal identification: “...room, rack, pen, stall, and cage cards with written or bar-coded information; collars, bands, plates, and tabs; colored stains; ear notches and tags; tattoos; subcutaneous transponders; and freeze brands.

Accepted by the IACUC: 10-3-06