General instructions

All samples have to be packed properly (3 layers of packaging) during transport (see packing instruction and transport instruction). Identify all samples and fill out and enclose our submission form to the shipment (packaging material and labels can be purchased at GD Animal Health). In case of shipments from non-EU countries, please contact us for additional information because of longer transport-time due to customs clearance.

Blood or serum samples

We prefer to receive blood samples, which we will centrifuge in our laboratory, or serum samples in deep-well blocks. Eppendorf tubes are less convenient to handle in our laboratory.

Blood samples clinical-chemical parameters or biomarkers

If samples cannot reach us within a day, the serum or plasma must be separated from the blood cells and pipetted into separate tubes or blocks. For some parameters sending in frozen samples is the best option. Do not store samples at room temperature (except for the first half hour to an hour for serum samples, which must solidify at room temperature).

• Contact our support team for the type of blood collection tube needed for the requested analysis;
• Fill the tubes for ¾ with blood;
• Gently invert the tubes 5 times immediately after filling;
• In case of serum tubes, keep tubes at room temperature for an hour to allow samples to clot;
• Contact our support team (email) for information on storage and transport conditions of the samples.

Serum

• Centrifuge the blood samples at 2500 G for 10 minutes.
• Serum samples can be stored at 2–8 degrees Celsius for one week. The serum or plasma must be separated from the blood cells and pipetted into separate tubes or blocks.
• Storage for longer periods can be done at a temperature of -20 degrees Celsius. The serum or plasma must be separated from the blood cells and pipetted into separate tubes or blocks.
• Transport of serum samples: advisable to send it by cooled transport (4 degrees Celsius) or with dry ice.

Water

• For bacteriology testing
  • The sample has to be delivered within 24 hours after sampling.
  • Use sterile water pots.
  • Take samples from both the start and the end of the watering system.
  • Add information about where the sample was taken and describe the kind of problems.
  • Submit the sample by cooled transport (4 degrees Celsius).

• For chemical testing
  • Use sterile water pots.
  • Take samples from both the start and the end of the watering system.
  • It is advisable to submit the sample by cooled transport (4 degrees Celsius).