Sampling and Dispatch of Specimens

DNA testing is an integral component of breeding and animal registration programs. Collecting high-quality samples is the most important step in the DNA testing process. Insufficient or poor quality samples delay turnaround times, and increase costs associated with resampling, re-submission and retesting. Given proper storage conditions, DNA is a robust and stable molecule that can be stored for several years. By following the guidelines written below you can help ensure a successful DNA test result the first time.

Please find the Sampling Requirements here

Please find the Animal Specimen Shipment options here

  • Confirm the type of sample required for the DNA test(s) you want to request.
  • Confirm the amount/volume of sample required for the DNA test(s) you want to request.
  • Confirm the best storage- and shipment method for the sample type you are collecting.
  • Request the relevant forms to accompany the samples to be submitted.
  • Data entry errors in the field

           – Samples are mislabeled or numbers are transposed

✔Verify that the animal ID is clearly labelled on each sample and that the

      information on the samples correspond to the information on the request form.

  • Biological contamination

           – Cross contamination between animals or samples

           – Foreign material, e.g. faecal matter, dirt, microbial growth (leads to DNA degradation and/or PCR inhibition)

✔Hands should be cleaned between animals along with any sampling tools (e.g. pliers, needles, syringes, etc.) used

✔ Remove any foreign material before sampling (e.g. faecal matter in tail hair)

  • Chemical contamination

           – Dye/Pigment from animal tattoos

           – Dipping agents

           – Cleaning agents

✔ Avoid sampling an animal from a tattooed area

✔ Properly clean the area to be sampled beforehand

  • Incorrect storage/shipping conditions

The most common reasons for DNA degradation are exposure to moisture (e.g. incorrect storage container), heat and sunlight (e.g. leaving samples in a vehicle in the sun), and physical cleavage through freeze-thaw cycles (improper frozen storage).

✔ Always confirm the best storage- and shipment method for the sample type you are collecting.

Insufficient sample volume

Always confirm the amount/volume of sample required for the DNA test(s) you want to request