Abstract
The bond between animals and humans has existed for a long time. Humans are entrusted with the stewardship for animal care and well-being as a part of their use. Legislation has addressed humane care of animals in the United States since 1873. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is responsible for administering many of these laws, including the Animal Welfare Act. Recent amendments to the Animal Welfare Act require regulations to be established for the exercise of dogs and the psychological well-being of primates. It also requires the establishment of an Institutional Animal Committee, training for scientists, consideration of alternatives by the principal investigator, and the establishment of an information service at the National Agricultural Library.