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DNA Collection Instructions

Getting Ready

Can my pet eat before the test? No. Please ensure your pet has not eaten for at least 20–30 minutes before collecting the sample. Drinking water is fine.

What if I have multiple pets? Please sample one animal at a time. Complete the entire process (collect, dry, and seal) for one pet before moving on to the next to avoid mixing up the swabs.

What about young puppies or kittens? If the animal is still nursing, please separate them from the mother for 20 minutes before swabbing to ensure there is no milk in their mouth.

Do I need a vet to collect the sample? No, the kits are designed for easy home use. Most pet owners can collect the sample themselves in just a few minutes.

However, if you are a breeder: To receive an Approved Collection Method (ACM) result, your sample must be verified.

  • Who collects it: A veterinarian or an Orivet Accredited Collection Agent.

  • The Paperwork: The vet or agent must sign the [Approved Collection Method (ACM) form]. Click here

  • Find Help: You can view a list of Orivet Accredited Collection Agents here.

Collecting the Sample

How do I use the swabs?

  1. Open: Peel back the packaging sleeve (try not to tear it, as you will need it later).

  2. Insert: Place the bristle head inside the pet's cheek.

  3. Roll: Pinch the cheek firmly around the bristles and roll the swab for about 15 seconds.

  4. Repeat: Use the remaining swabs on the other cheek (or same cheek) to ensure we get enough DNA.

Do I need to draw blood? No. The standard kit uses buccal (cheek) swabs to collect loose cells from inside the mouth. It is painless and easy to do at home.

After Collection

Do I need to dry the swabs? Yes! This is the most important step. Stand the swabs up (bristle end up) in a cup and let them air dry for 5 minutes. Warning: Placing wet swabs back into the plastic sleeve can cause bacteria to grow and ruin the sample.

How do I pack them? Once the swabs are completely dry:

  1. Slide them back into the original plastic packaging.

  2. Seal the packet using the barcode sticker provided.

  3. Place the sealed packet into the return envelope.

When should I mail it? Please mail your samples as soon as possible. If you cannot get to a post box immediately, keep the sealed sample at room temperature (do not refrigerate).



Click here to view our detailed instructions.