Sample Submission Protocol: Cheek Swab
*** You must provide your own swabs. See the Swabs section for more information. ***
*** Cheek Swabs are not included in the purchase price. ***
Preparation – Prior to Collection
- Please note: Cheek swabs should NOT be submitted from un-weaned puppies
- The dog to be sampled should not eat for at least one hour prior to having the sample collected.
- This is to reduce the chance of food particle contamination.
- Just prior to sampling, check the dog’s mouth to see that no food or other material is obviously present.
- If there is, clean/rinse the dog’s mouth to remove it.
- Wash your hands before swabbing each dog.
- Prepare a clean surface on which to place the opened swab package while you are swabbing the dog.
- Label a clean letter-sized envelope with the dog’s call name and the owner’s last name to contain the swabs.
Collection Instructions
- Use 2 swabs per dog. See the Swabs section for information on purchasing swabs.
- Hold the swab by the handle end. Do not touch the collection tip of the swab.
- While holding the handle end of the swab, insert the tip along the inside of the cheek. Rotate the collection tip along the inside of the cheek for 10 seconds. Push the outside of the dog’s cheek while rotating the swab and firmly press the swab between the gum and cheek to enhance cell collection.
- Wave the swab while it air dries for 10-15 seconds. DO NOT blow on the swab.
- Insert the swab into the envelope and repeat with the additional swab.
- If the swabs came in a plastic tube, do not place the swabs in the tube – place them directly into the paper envelope.
- Seal the swabs in the labeled envelope and place it within a larger mailing envelope.
Forms
Fees & Payment
- All fees are listed on the corresponding test website and payment at the time of submission is required.
- If you are requesting multiple tests to be run on the same dog, select the discounted “Combo Test” option.
- Submit payment by visiting https://purdue.vet/addl-touchnet, and print a copy of the receipt.
- Samples must be shipped with a copy of your receipt.
Shipping
A major concern in using cheek swabs is the possibility of microbial growth on the swab after the sample has been collected. This is particularly a problem during hot and humid times of the year. To reduce the chance for contamination, do not store the swabs (used or unused) in sealed plastic bags. Do not freeze them or store them in the refrigerator where condensation can more easily occur. Be prepared to ship the cheek swab samples as soon as possible after they are collected.
- Ship to arrive within 2-7 days of collection (US Postal Service, UPS, FedEx; For Canada, Purolator is recommended).
- Samples do not need to be sent overnight.
- Write "Exempt Animal Specimen" on the outside of the shipping container.
- For shipments originating outside the US, include the USDA Importation Documents available on our website and at this link: https://purdue.vet/addl-usdaimport
*Required for shipments originating outside of the US
- By following the instructions, you will have placed each set of the air-dried swabs in labeled, clean paper envelopes. Place these labeled envelopes, submission forms, and payment receipt into a sturdy mailing envelope or box.
- Send package with samples and ALL FORMS (in a separate leakproof plastic bag) to:
ADDL – Canine Genetic Tests
406 S. University Street
West Lafayette, IN 47907
USA
Swabs
You may purchase appropriate cheek swabs (also called Sterile Applicators) at certain pharmacies, especially specialty pharmacies and medical supply stores that carry home health care products. Sterile swabs are a must, and non-sterile swabs (Q-tip) should NOT be used. You may also order them online from a variety of vendors such as:
- Amazon
- CVS
- EZswabs
- Walmart
Questions
Contact the diagnostic lab by email at addl@purdue.edu.
