Because JAFSNHS publishes work that spans animal, agricultural, and human health, every submission involving animals or people must document ethical oversight.

Research involving animals

• Studies on live animals (including livestock and companion animals) must be approved by an institutional animal ethics committee (IAEC/IACUC) or equivalent; state the approval number in the Methods.
• Field studies on farms must confirm owner consent and describe measures taken to minimise animal distress.
• Reporting should follow the ARRIVE guidelines.

Research involving human participants

• Studies involving people, human samples, or identifiable data must have approval from a recognised ethics committee/IRB and must conform to the Declaration of Helsinki.
• Written informed consent is required from participants (or guardians). Case reports require consent for publication.
• Occupational health studies of farm workers must protect participant anonymity and employment status.

One Health and biosafety

Work with zoonotic pathogens must state the biosafety level of the facility used and comply with national biosafety regulations.