Validation study of social housing of canines in toxicology studies.

Optimal housing conditions for canines have evolved in light of changing research findings and animal welfare initiatives. Social housing of canines in toxicology studies was not considered standard housing in our facility. When the decision was made to explore social housing for toxicology studies in our facility, we noted a lack of published information. This study was performed to develop and validate social housing as an option for canines in toxicology studies. The potential impact to data gathered through toxicology studies in which the canines are socially housed is discussed.