How to submit a sample

Submission best practices

Veterinarian submissions preferred

While we will accept submissions from animal owners, it is strongly recommended that for maximum value, all submissions to the laboratory be made through and with the assistance of a practicing veterinarian. A veterinary practitioner can evaluate animal health problems, determine suitable laboratory submissions, interpret laboratory results, and recommend and implement necessary treatment. Results of laboratory work will be returned to the submitter or veterinary practitioner unless otherwise requested.

Assigning a case coordinator

Laboratory cases that require special consideration by our professional staff will be assigned a case coordinator, typically a veterinary microbiologist or pathologist at our laboratory.

Large submissions

When testing large numbers of animals, please contact the laboratory in advance so media and staff can be available to ensure a timely turnaround of your test requests.

Include a history

When submitting a sample, clinical history must be included on the submission form. This information is crucial when evaluating the significance of test results and determining a diagnosis. In general, more information is better than less information. The more complete the historical and clinical information, previous diagnostic results, and questions to be resolved on the submission form, the easier it is for the laboratory to choose the most effective and efficient course of evaluation for your specimens.