Research your topic thoroughly. The IACUC expects you to demonstrate that you are not duplicating existing research, that your research question is valuable and that animals are the only way to answer your question. Clearly write these findings in the "Overview" section.
Obtain the required protocol form. Usually this is electronic and can be obtained by going to your department's website. Occasionally you will need to get the form from your department secretary.
Follow all of the instructions carefully. Fill out the form completely, and in the manner specified to gain permission to do animal research. Because an animal protocol form is a contract, you will be required to be very precise.
Request a specific number of animals. The IACUC will only approve an exact number. If you find you need more animals, you will be able to file an amended protocol at that time.
Include specific details about how the animals will be housed and treated. The IACUC is especially concerned that you are familiar with industry standards for care. If your research design prevents you from meeting industry standards, you need to justify your request. For example, you may need to use cages that are too small to study stress responses in overcrowded situations. They are also concerned that pain and suffering are minimized as much as possible.
Provide a detailed plan for keeping researchers safe while working with the animals. Include strategies to contain contagious diseases and/or restrain aggressive animals as appropriate.
Provide a summary chart describing how the animals will be used over the life of your research project. The chart should summarize everything that you expect to happen at each stage of your project. If you have more than one group of animals, provide charts for each.
Address what happens to the animals at the end of your project. Describe plans for euthanasia, if that is your plan. If research animals are to be returned to the research pool or donated to a zoo, include information about long-term effects of your research on them. For example, if your experiment caused blindness, zookeepers and future researchers need to know that.
Delete directions from your final report. The directions, including italicized instructions, are intended to help you create a complete document. Your report should read like an original proposal that is specific to your research, not a completed form.