Skip to main content

Take a good tissue sample with the Z Tags Tissue Sampler

Learn how to use the Z Tags Tissue Sampler Only (TSO) to take a good DNA sample from animals

Before you get started

  • Clean the animal's ears with >95% ethanol before taking a sample

  • Lay out everything you need on a clean surface

  • For BVD testing, send samples within 24-48 hours of collection

Taking the sample

💡 A good sample collection depends on how the cutter tip is handled, before and during collection. It must not be touched, pushed or rubbed with fingers. If it drops on the floor, throw it away and use a new cutter tip to ensure a clean sample.

Watch the video below to learn how to:

  • Handle the cutter tip correctly and when to discard the cutter tip

  • Load the Tissue Tagger

  • Take a good tissue sample

  • Pull the female adaptor off the container tag after collection

  • Store the sample before sending to the lab

Recap - must knows:

  1. Clean the animal's ear with >95% ethanol before you start. Do not use bleach.

  2. Load the TSO correctly and ensure you gently pinch the cutter tip during loading. If the cutter tip is compromised, throw it away and get a new cutter tip.

  3. Take a sample in the cartilage between the veins and arteries on the animal's ear. Do not take a sample on freshly tattooed spots.

  4. Pull the female adaptor off the container tag after collection.

  5. Clean samples and place in the box. Write the animal's VID number on the box.

  6. Store in the refrigerator or cool, dark, dry place before sending to the lab. Do not freeze.


​You may also be interested in:

Attachment icon
4396ZT14 Tissue tag Instructions A4 MAR26.pdf
Did this answer your question?