R416--Veterinarian Services for Research Pre-solicitation Notice with Intent to Sole Source

The Department of Veterans Affairs intends to negotiate a sole source contract for a five-year contract to obtain specialized veterinary research services for VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System (VAPHS) animal research program. The services required include providing veterinary care of animals housed for research at VAPHS, directing the operation of the animal research facility, attending veterinarian designation, and provision of support for VAPHS researchers and staff. The contractor will be responsible for ensuring high quality and compliance with current animal welfare regulations and policies. Some key responsibilities include: • Providing veterinary care of animals housed for research at VAPHS • Directing the operation of the animal research facility • Attending Veterinarian designation and assumption of related regulatory responsibilities • Regular and documented on-site visitation of the animal facility • Provision of support for VAPHS researchers and staff in specialized techniques and experimental design • Establishment, implementation, and/or regular review of a quality control program for rodent colonies • Responsibility for directing and/or delegating authority and responsibility for activities involving animals at VAPHS