Tyler Hockman named ad-hoc consultant for AAALAC

To advance research and medicine prior to the beginning of any clinical trials, Augusta University researchers use animal models to gain insight into how discoveries in the laboratory might become treatments to improve health and wellness.

As a proactive measure to ensure proper use of animal models, AU maintains accreditation with the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care. There are more than 1,100 companies, universities and other research institutions that have voluntarily earned AAALAC accreditation.

Tyler Hockman, DVM, assistant director of laboratory animal services at AU, was recently named an ad-hoc consultant for AAALAC He and other AAALAC council members will conduct on-site visits and make recommendations to ensure federal and American Veterinary Medical Association guidelines are followed.

“When visits are made, we will look at the level of training for the people who are doing the day-to-day animal husbandry,” said Hockman. “We also will verify that policies are in place that align with regulatory documentation.”

Hockman approached Doug Taylor, DVM, director of the Division of Lab Animal Services at AU, expressing interest in applying for the role.

“He’s very action-oriented and likes to get things done. In the three and a half years we’ve worked together, I think that is his strength,” said Taylor. “He works well with the investigators, he works well with the people in DLAS, so he’s a good, collegial spirit around here.”

In addition to his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine, Hockman recently passed his Diplomate of the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine board exam, which makes him a specialist in laboratory animal medicine.

Hockman’s new role will also give him a chance to see different perspectives that may lead to better practices at AU.

“It’s good to see how other institutions operate because seeing a different way of doing things may provide opportunities for improvement. So there really is a lot of worth to it,” said Hockman.