
Creates a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Sandra Willis is the Animal Practice and Compliance Officer at the University of Otago's Animal Welfare Office in Dunedin. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring animal welfare and adherence to approved Animal Use Protocols (AUPs) across university research facilities. She possesses the authority to intervene decisively in situations involving animal distress, including stopping procedures that cause unnecessary pain or distress, halting animal use deviating from protocols or resulting in unforeseen suffering, and humanely euthanasing animals when required to prevent further harm.
Sandra Willis also manages initial investigations of potential non-compliance events, prepares comprehensive reports, notifies the Animal Ethics Committee Chair regarding welfare impacts, and verifies the absence of ongoing risks to animal welfare or research integrity. Operating from the Eccles Building, she supports the broader Animal Welfare Office team, which includes veterinarians and the Animal Welfare Officer, in upholding ethical standards for animal-based research. Contact options include direct dial +64 3 556 6653 and emails apco@otago.ac.nz or sandra.willis@otago.ac.nz.