Transporting nonhuman primates between facilities is a complex, tightly regulated process that prioritizes animal welfare, safety, and legal compliance at every step. Each shipment involves extensive coordination among veterinarians, animal care teams, and logistics specialists, following detailed standard operating procedures that govern everything from health screening to the chopping of fruits and vegetables packed for the journey.
Despite taking every possible precaution, a complex operation like animal transport carries inherent risks. We were deeply saddened by the tragic incident involving animals originating from the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center (TNBRC),when a transport vehicle operated by an independent transport company overturned in Mississippi.. We also acknowledge that local authorities faced an extraordinarily difficult situation and acted as they believed necessary to protect public safety. Still, the outcome represents a heartbreaking loss of animal life and the scientific advances the animals supported. It reminds all of us who work in animal research of the emotional weight of our responsibilities.
We recognize the compassion, professionalism, and grief of our colleagues who experienced this loss, and we share their sorrow. To our Tulane colleages: We know that this tragic loss of life may be a burden you carry for some time, and we honor your ongoing commitment to the animals in your care now.