DNA SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

SWINE HAIR SAMPLE COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Check the ear notch and registration number of the animal, and record it on the hair sample envelope. We recommend coarse hair from the loin or rump. If the animal has been shaved, hair can usually be found between the toes, on the jowl/face, inside the ear, or around the tail head. Clean the sample area to remove dirt or other contaminants. Use bent nose, long nose or needle nose pliers to pull the hair. You will need at least five pulls to get enough hair.
  2. Pull a tuft of hair from the animal. Pull the hair directly away from the skin, NOT at an angle. This will allow the hair root to come out with the hair. NOTE: Do NOT cut the hair from the animal. The hair MUST CONTAIN ROOTS FOR DNA TESTING. Avoid touching the roots and make sure the hair is dry.
  3. Visually inspect the hairs for intact roots. Roots or follicles are easy to see (like human hairs with a bulb at the end). You may notice a color variation which indicates that the root is intact. A minimum of 40 hair roots is needed.
  4. Place the sample in the hair sample envelope and then seal the envelope in the presence of exhibitor and parent/supervisor. Do not put hairs in a plastic bag.
  5. Fill out remaining information lines on the envelope.
  6. REMEMBER: Cleanse hands and pliers between animal samples to ensure that hairs from different animals are not mixed.

 SWINE HAIR SAMPLE CHECKLIST

  • Select collection area-we suggest loin or rump
  • Record registration number on the envelope
  • Obtain at least 40 hairs with follicles
  • Take at least 5 pulls
  • Inspect for follicles-do NOT touch follicles
  • DNA cards for Poland China & Spot sows do not need to be tested to record a litter.
  • Clean pliers and hands between animals
  • Testing cost is $30 per animal

Approved DNA Sample & Collection Devices

  • Accepted blotter cards available for purchase from CPS.
If blood, ideal collection method, cannot be collected:

Semen samples (use DNA card purchased from CPS):

  • Only fresh or “thawed” frozen semen can be used
  • Caution must be taken to avoid cross contamination between animals
  • Place a drop of semen in the center of EACH circle on the card.
  • Allow the card to dry completely before sending it to CPS

Hair Samples

  • A hair collection card may be purchased from CPS-notify CPS staff when ordering DNA collection materials, a specific DNA hair card is required or other entities.
  • Minimum of 40 pieces of hair are required for DNA sample to be deemed an acceptable DNA submission-hair samples MUST include the follicle.

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