Before You Submit

• Use the correct collection container for the requested test.
• Label all specimens clearly.
• Store specimens at the appropriate temperature.
• Include a completed submission form with every submission.
• Ensure all required information is completed (clinic, owner, animal ID, requested tests).

Blood Specimen — Whole Blood

Container
Lavender-top EDTA tube

Collection

• Perform venipuncture using standard clinical technique.
• Gently invert tube 10–15 times immediately after collection.

Recommended
Prepare two air-dried blood smears if the sample will not reach the laboratory the same day.

Label

• Animal ID
• Owner name
• Collection date

Storage

• Refrigerate EDTA blood
• Store smears at room temperature in a slide holder

Urine Specimen

Container: Sterile screw-cap container

Collection

• Use the clinic’s preferred urine collection technique.

Label

• Animal ID
• Owner name
• Collection date
• Method of collection

Storage

• Keep urine samples refrigerated until submission.

Fecal Specimen

Container

• SAF container or sterile screw-cap container.

Label

• Animal ID
• Owner name

Storage

• SAF samples: room temperature
• Unpreserved samples: refrigerated

Note
DNA (PCR or molecular) tests typically require unpreserved samples collected in a sterile screw-cap container.

 Always confirm specific sample requirements in the Test Directory prior to collection.

Microbiology Specimens

Collection Technique

• Collect specimens before administering antibiotics whenever possible.
• Use sterile equipment and aseptic technique.

Specimen Container

• Use the appropriate transport system for the specific specimen type.

Labelling
Label containers with:

• Animal ID
• Owner’s name
• Collection site or method

Storage

• Refrigerate specimens immediately after collection to prevent overgrowth.
• Do not refrigerate blood or fluid culture specimens — these should be submitted to the laboratory immediately.

Submission Form

Every specimen must be accompanied by a completed submission form.

Please ensure:

All required information is completed, including:

• Submitter (clinic) information
• Owner’s name
• Animal identification
• All requested tests or profiles are clearly selected.
• Relevant notes or clinical history are included when applicable.
• Portal submissions: Print the submission form generated by the portal and include it with the specimen.
• Paper submission forms: Ensure that all handwriting is clear and legible.
• Place the completed form inside the specimen bag with the sample.

Some tests performed by external reference laboratories may require additional forms.

Specimen Pick-Up

To arrange transport of specimens to the laboratory:

• Contact customer support to schedule a pick-up.
• Specify whether the request is routine or STAT.
• Place the specimen submission in the designated HealthGene lock box for collection.