ABSTRACT
The success of laboratory examination depends mainly on the proper collection, preservation and dispatch of suitable materials. Even when the field investigator feels competent to form an opinion regarding the identity of the disease encountered, a complete range of specimens must be taken and submitted, so that a thorough laboratory investigation can be performed. The letter should contain all particulars of the specimens, preservatives used, history of the case and the time of animal's death and that of necropsy along with a copy of the post-mortem examination report, the disease suspected and the specific tests required. The method of preservation chosen will vary with the type of investigation required and the time that must elapse before the investigation can be made. Solid carbon dioxide is useful but has certain disadvantages. Blood for serum production should be collected as aseptically as possible in sterile glass or plastic vials.
