Where can I submit a tick found on a dog for analysis? - briefly
You can submit a tick found on a dog for analysis to your local veterinary clinic or a specialized laboratory that offers tick testing services. These facilities have the necessary equipment and expertise to analyze the tick for potential diseases such as Lyme disease.
Where can I submit a tick found on a dog for analysis? - in detail
If you have discovered a tick on your dog and wish to submit it for analysis, several options are available to ensure that the specimen is examined by qualified professionals. Here's a comprehensive guide on where and how to submit a tick found on a dog for analysis:
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Veterinary Clinics: Your local veterinarian is an excellent first point of contact. Many veterinary clinics offer tick identification services, and they can provide guidance on whether the tick should be tested for diseases such as Lyme disease or other pathogens. They may either perform the analysis in-house or send the tick to a specialized laboratory.
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University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratories: Many universities with veterinary schools maintain diagnostic laboratories that specialize in analyzing ticks and other parasites. These facilities often provide comprehensive testing services, including identification of the tick species and screening for common tick-borne diseases. You can typically find contact information for these labs on the university's website or by contacting their veterinary school directly.
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State Public Health Departments: Some state public health departments offer tick testing services as part of their efforts to monitor and control tick-borne illnesses. These services may be free or available at a nominal fee, depending on the specific department's policies. Contact your local or state health department for more information on their tick testing programs.
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Private Laboratories: There are private laboratories that specialize in analyzing ticks and other parasites. These labs often provide detailed reports on the species of the tick, as well as any pathogens it may be carrying. Examples include TickReport at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and IGeneX, Inc., both of which offer comprehensive tick testing services.
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Local Entomology Departments: If you are in close proximity to a university or research institution with an entomology department, they may be able to assist in identifying the tick species. While they might not offer full disease testing, their expertise can be invaluable for initial identification and guidance on further steps.
When submitting a tick for analysis, follow these guidelines:
- Collect the Tick: Using tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull it out gently without twisting or crushing it. Place the tick in a small, sealable plastic bag.
- Label the Bag: Write the date and location where the tick was found on the bag for reference.
- Contact the Laboratory: Before sending the tick, contact the chosen laboratory to confirm their submission procedures and any associated fees. Some laboratories may require you to fill out a form or provide additional information.
- Mail the Tick: Follow the laboratory's instructions for mailing. Typically, you will need to place the bagged tick in a padded envelope and send it via priority mail to ensure timely delivery and prevent damage during transit.
By following these steps, you can ensure that the tick found on your dog is submitted for thorough analysis, providing valuable information about potential health risks and helping to safeguard both your pet's and your own well-being.