VDI Collection Instructions

VDI Lab is committed to providing the highest quality testing standards and services. The quality of any laboratory test result is dependent on many variables, the first of which begins with you. Your care, skill and knowledge are essential in the delivery of high quality results. The specimen must be properly collected, processed, packaged and transported to the lab in a manner that ensures the integrity of the specimen. After all of these activities take place, a quality analysis can be performed. Please be sure to closely follow the collection and handling instructions. Should you have any questions or need assistance, please contact VDI Client Services at (805) 577-6742.

The instructions below are intended for use with the VDI Prepaid Test Kits. Do not collect samples and send samples to the lab without approved kits or supplies from VDI. Contact VDI with any questions regarding sample collection.

Select A Sample Type

SERUM

Serum Collection Instructions for Veterinary Staff can be found inside your kit. Please be sure to take those with you to your veterinarian visit.

Packaging and Shipping Instructions

  1. Collect Blood Sample – Veterinary Visit Required
    • Bring test kit and provide collection instructions found inside to the veterinary staff for sample processing. Review important notes section below
  2. Complete Forms
    • Ensure all forms and supplemental forms are completed to avoid delays in reporting
  3. Package and Ship
    • Once sample is collected and forms are completed, pack inside the shipping mailer and apply the mailing label (if not already attached). Retain the tracking information for your records. Mail the package

Important Notes

  • A blood draw from a licensed veterinary clinic is required to obtain serum. Do NOT send whole blood.
  • We require 1-1.5mL of serum to complete testing panels.
  • Blood should be collected from the patient (use SST or RTT), spun down and separated into serum within 2 hours of the blood draw.
  • We recommend that the pet is fasted for 8 hours for any panels including B12.
  • If your test kit is for Frozen Sample Submission, remove ice packs from and place in freezer right away. Ice packs are required to be frozen solid prior to shipping sample.
  • If your test kit contains a foil package, DO NOT OPEN, this and all components should stay inside the test kit until the veterinary staff is ready to process the sample.

FAQS:

Serum is a component of blood. To obtain serum, blood is drawn from the patient in an appropriate tube. The blood is allowed to clot, to removing clotting factors, and then centrifuged at high speeds to separate the red blood cells from the serum. The resulting serum is what is tested.

It depends on the panel needing testing, and the patient, but generally the goal is 2x the serum needs. So, if the panel requires 1mL of serum, then 2mL of blood should be collected.

Yes, please contact VDI to obtain a new copy of collection instructions for the veterinary staff.

FUR

See below for general submission instructions. For printable instructions with images please click HERE

General Collection Instructions:

  1. Collect Fur Sample
    • Follow instructions below to collect fur sample appropriate for your pet’s coat length. Review Tips & Notes section prior to starting collection
  2. Complete Forms
    • Ensure all forms and supplemental forms are completed to avoid delays in reporting
    • Additionally, write the pet name on the envelope containing the fur sample
  3. Package and Ship
    • Once sample is collected and forms are completed, pack inside the return envelope and apply the mailing label. Retain the tracking information for your records. Mail the envelope

Tips & Notes

  • Fur should NOT be cleaned before collection of the sample to avoid artificial results
  • 200mg of fur is required. This is approximately 1 Tablespoon (Tbsp) of fur.
  • Better to err on the side of too much versus too little fur to ensure enough for testing
  • Fur closest to skin is the most current sample. Aim to collect the first 1.5-2 inches (40-50mm) of fur closest to the skin
  • Avoid cutting, scraping, or damaging the skin when collecting the fur sample
  • DO NOT use brushed out fur. Only use freshly cut fur
  • DO NOT pluck the fur. We do not need the hair follicle, only submit shaved or cut fur

Medium & Long Coat Animals:

  1. Identify area for sampling – Ventral neck if preferred location. If this is a retest, collect from same location as first test.
  2. Remove far end of fur coat
    • Trim fur back until only 1.5 to 2 inches (40-50mm) remain
    • Discard trimmed fur
  3. Collect fur sample
    • Trim remaining fur close to the skin. Avoid damaging the skin when taking the sample
    • Obtain 200mg of fur (approx. 1 Tbsp)
    • Place trimmed fur into clean paper or plastic baggie and seal shut

Short Coat Animals:

  1. Identify area for sampling – Ventral neck if preferred location. If this is a retest, collect from same location as first test.
  2. Collect fur sample
    • Trim fur close to the skin. Avoid damaging the skin when taking the sample
    • Obtain 200mg of fur (approx. 1 Tbsp)
    • Place trimmed fur into clean paper or plastic baggie and seal shut

FAQS:

No, we do not need the hair follicle. Please send only cut or shaved fur.

Yes, clippers or a shaver may be used for animals with very short hair.

No, this panel requires fur/hair.

URINE

See below for general submission instructions. For printable instructions with images please click HERE

General Collection Instructions:

  1. Complete Forms
    • Ensure all forms and supplemental forms are completed to avoid delays in reporting
  2. Collect Urine Sample
    • See below for collecting urine at home
    • Transfer to the provided tube using the pipette
    • Close the lid tightly!
  3. Package and Ship
    • Place the tube inside the included baggie along with absorbent pad and zip close tightly.
    • Place baggie with tube, along with completed paperwork, inside the box and close the lid.
    • Place box inside the white mailer bag and seal shut.
    • If the mailer bag has a USPS label affixed to it, mail the kit through USPS. If there is no label affixed, then choose any shipping method you’d like to ship to VDI. Retain the tracking number for your records.

Collecting Urine (at home)

Collecting urine from your pet can seem overwhelming. There are plenty of videos and resources online to help you collect the sample as easy as possible – we recommend finding some to use as reference.

Here are some tips to get you started:

  • Take your dog on a short leash to keep them close so you don’t have to chase them around the yard when they go.
  • Wear gloves, and be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after collection.
  • Use the included P-Pole and reusable silicone collection cup
  • Work with a partner. While you hold the leash, somebody else can get behind or beside your dog and sneak a sample.
  • For cats, there are options available online to walk through the process. Cats can be a bit trickier to get samples from, so be patient.
  • If you’re struggling to get a urine sample, contact your veterinarian to see if they will be able to get a sample for you.

P-Pole Directions:

  1. Pole Assembly
    • Attach the metal ring to the telescopic pole by rotating it.
  2. Place the Cup
    • Pull the metal ring to extend the pole and place the cup inside it.
  3. Collect Sample
  4. Fill the Vial/Tube
    • Be sure to close the vial lid tightly once filled.

FAQS:

We require 3-5mL of urine to complete testing. If unable to collect at least 3mL, call VDI for assistance.

Urine can be collected at any time of day.

STOOL/FECES (for GI Microbiome)

See below for general submission instructions. For printable instructions with images please click HERE

General Collection Instructions:

  1. Complete Forms
    • Ensure all forms and supplemental forms are completed to avoid delays in reporting
    • Additionally, write the pet name on the collection tube
  2. Collect Stool Sample
    • Wearing gloves, carefully remove the swab from the package, touching only the plastic end of the swab
    • Stick swab into center of the fecal sample and swirl – obtain about a pea size sample if possible (Avoid swabbing any part that has come in contact with the ground/environment)
  3. Put sample swab in tube
    • Unscrew collection tube cap carefully (there is a liquid solution in the tube, open upright)
    • Place swab head with sample directly into the solution at the bottom of the swab collection tube
    • Break the handle of swab off at the notch, leaving the swab head in the tube, and discard the handle.
    • Screw the cap securely onto the swab collection tube. Ensure the tube is sealed tightly to prevent leakage.
  4. Mix Collection Tube
    • Invert the swab collection tube 10 times to fully cover the swab with solution
  5. Package and Ship
    • Place collection tube and all completed paperwork inside the return mailer and apply the mailing label. Retain the tracking information for your records

FAQS:

Yes, the swab is required to be broken off inside the solution tube and capped. Do not remove swab once it has been inside the liquid solution tube. There is a notch in the handle for where to break off the far end of the handle.

No, the liquid solution inside the collection tube is required to stabilize the sample until testing. Please contact VDI for a replacement collection tube.

Yes, we require a fresh stool sample to be swabbed. Do not swab stool that has been sitting for multiple hours, this can contaminate the sample or lead to inaccurate results.

Caution:

DNA/RNA Shield™ preservation reagent is provided in the swab collection tube. DO NOT insert swab into
preservation reagent before collection sample. DO NOT drink, touch, or remove the preservation reagent
from the swab collection tube. The preservation reagent is an irritant to the skin and eyes. Do not ingest
preservation reagent; avoid contact with skin and eyes; wash with water for 20 minutes if exposed to skin or
eyes. DO NOT induce vomiting if the preservation reagent is ingested. Obtain appropriate medical attention
in the event of any exposure. Keep out of reach of children.

SKIN SWAB (for Skin Microbiome)

See below for general submission instructions. For printable instructions with images please click HERE

General Collection Instructions:

  1. Complete Forms
    • Ensure all forms and supplemental forms are completed to avoid delays in reporting
    • Additionally, write the pet name on the collection tube
  2. Collect Skin Swab Sample
    • Wearing gloves, carefully remove the swab from the package, touching only the plastic end of the swab
    • Press the swab directly onto the skin. Maintain moderate pressure while moving/twirling the swab in the area 10 times. (Only swab the most affected area and do not swab multiple areas)
  3. Put sample swab in tube
    • Unscrew collection tube cap carefully (there is a liquid solution in the tube, open upright)
    • Place swab head with sample directly into the solution at the bottom of the swab collection tube
    • Break the handle of swab off at the notch, leaving the swab head in the tube, and discard the handle.
    • Screw the cap securely onto the swab collection tube. Ensure the tube is sealed tightly to prevent leakage.
  4. Mix Collection Tube
    • Invert the swab collection tube 10 times to fully cover the swab with solution
  5. Package and Ship
    • Place collection tube and all completed paperwork inside the return mailer and apply the mailing label. Retain the tracking information for your records

FAQS:

Yes, the swab is required to be broken off inside the solution tube and capped. Do not remove swab once it has been inside the liquid solution tube. There is a notch in the handle for where to break off the far end of the handle.

No, the liquid solution inside the collection tube is required to stabilize the sample until testing. Please contact VDI for a replacement collection tube.

Caution:

DNA/RNA Shield™ preservation reagent is provided in the swab collection tube. DO NOT insert swab into
preservation reagent before collection sample. DO NOT drink, touch, or remove the preservation reagent
from the swab collection tube. The preservation reagent is an irritant to the skin and eyes. Do not ingest
preservation reagent; avoid contact with skin and eyes; wash with water for 20 minutes if exposed to skin or
eyes. DO NOT induce vomiting if the preservation reagent is ingested. Obtain appropriate medical attention
in the event of any exposure. Keep out of reach of children.

HOME MYCOTOXIN SAMPLES

See below for general submission instructions. For printable instructions with images please click HERE

General Collection Instructions:

  1. Collect Samples
    • See below for additional guidance on preferred samples and location
  2. Complete Forms
    • Ensure all forms are completed to avoid delays in reporting
  3. Package and Ship
    • Once samples are collected and forms are completed, pack inside the return envelope and apply the mailing label. Retain the tracking information for your records. Mail the envelope

Collecting Samples:

Preferred Samples: Any VISIBLE mold or areas where there is water damage (present or past), dust from air conditioner filter, dust from air conditioner or heater vents/grates.

Amount: Thorough swab across area(s) of concern with one or more of the included swabs or gauze pad.

Many homes do not have central air conditioners or furnaces with filters. Below you can find a few suggestions on how and where to collect your sample from:

  • Window Sills (if there is visible mold, use moist cotton swabs
  • Swab from the back of refrigerators (or vents)
  • Dust from behind or under furniture
  • Swab of vacuum cleaner’s filter
  • Swab from inside a humidifier
  • Sheetrock or drywall (avoid painted surfaces)

Mold can grow in many places inside your home, especially in damp, dark, and poorly ventilated areas.

Signs of Mold Growth

  • Musty, damp smell
  • Visible mold spots (black, green, white, or orange)
  • Peeling paint or wallpaper
  • Water stains or discoloration
  • Increased allergy symptoms (sneezing, coughing, headaches)