The Department of Comparative Medicine provides professional veterinary and technical support to investigators using animals in biomedical research at the University of South Alabama. This is an AAALAC International-accredited program that oversees institutional compliance with animal welfare policies and standards. The department provides consultation and collaboration with research personnel to assist in protocol and project planning, model development, and rodent breeding colony management. Supported within the department are high resolution, large and small animal ultrasound units, an aseptic surgery suite, a surgical skills laboratory, and a facility to evaluate the effects of hypoxia. A variety of diagnostic laboratory services are also available within the department. Additional information regarding any of these services may be obtained by calling 251-460-6239 or contacting the department at dcm@usouthal.edu. Information on the Institutional Animal Care and Use Program may be found at www.southalabama.edu/researchcompliance/animalcare.html