Submit a Sample

Submitting a sample is the first step in the diagnostic testing process. All TVMDL labs offer easy, convenient methods of submission. This section aims to assist clients walk through the various submission methods to ensure samples are submitted properly.

Your guide through the testing process

Quality test results are the cumulation of many critical steps. TVMDL has compiled resources to support clients during each of these steps to ensure samples are collected properly and arrive at the lab safely.

New to TVMDL? Complete a New Client Form.

All new clients must complete a New Client Form prior to receiving results.

woman with blonde hair and glasses assisting young man with brown hair and glasses complete paperwork

Sample Exclusions and Disclaimers

Excluded Species

Due to the potential health risk to TVMDL personnel, the Agency does not provide testing on any specimen derived from primate species, including lemurs. The only exception to this policy is that testing of formalin-fixed tissue may be performed.

Sample Returns

All samples and accompanying documentation submitted to TVMDL for testing become the property of the agency and may be tested as part of state/federal surveillance programs, utilized for research and educational purposes, and/or development of new assays. TVMDL is unable to return samples to the client unless prior arrangements are made and approved by the agency Director or designee.

Accession Fee

An accession fee is applied to each accession/case, not each specimen. An accession is defined as samples from the same animal/herd/flock, originating from a single animal owner, submitted for the same condition, collected at the same time. This allows clients to receive bulk testing of same species (from the same owner) under one accession. Poultry submissions requesting multiple tests (e.g. AI, Mg/Ms, culture, ect.) for a single flock are counted as one accession. 

Client Rights and Responsibilities

We understand that the need for diagnostic services may be stressful: losing an animal, seeking help for sick animals, testing required for movement and business, and various other scenarios can be trying. TVMDL staff work to provide diagnostic services with courtesy, compassion, and respect. We ask that you treat our team with the same courtesy, compassion, and respect so that we can accurately and properly provide the testing you need. Visit the Clients Rights and Responsibilities page to learn more.

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