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
Store the sample before sending to the lab
Recap - must knows:
Clean the animal's ear with >95% ethanol before you start. Do not use bleach.
Load the TST 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.
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.
Clean samples and sample box and store in the refrigerator or cool, dark, dry place before sending to the lab. Do not freeze.
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