Mouse DNA Tail Clip Policy

When tail clipping at any age, isoflurane or methoxyflurane anesthesia is strongly recommended.

In mice less than 4 weeks of age, up to 1 cm of tail can be taken without anesthesia. Only sharp surgical scissors should be used. Scissors should be alcohol wiped, or preferably, wiped and sterilized in a glass bead sterilizer before each animal is clipped.

If a mouse is older than 4 weeks of age, if more than 1 cm is needed or is any animal is reclipped, it must be anesthetized. Hemostasis is required for any mouse that loses more than 5 drops of blood. Direct pressure, cautery, or use of a hemostatic powder are all acceptable methods.

Protocol following these guidelines should include this page as part of the protocol submission.

Deviations or procedures not covered in these guidelines must be addressed and justified in the protocols.