Pet DNA Services of AZ - Sample Instructions for Avian DNA Sexing

INSTRUCTIONS FOR FEATHER, BLOOD OR EGGSHELL COLLECTION
(Avian DNA Testing)
* * NOTE: Please type or print legibly all information on Test Request Form * *
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS:

For each bird, use a separate collection kit (a ziplock bag plus ID card.)
Fill out an ID card (if submitting without a kit, please just indicate on a slip of paper: species, ID, owner) and place it in the bag.
With each shipment include a filled-out form providing your name, address & contact information, your birds’ information (species and ID), and payment method. Please attach an additional sheet if more space is needed.
The cost per test is:
- 1-10 birds = US $20 each
- 11-20 birds = US $19 each
- More than 20 birds = US $18 each
We accept Check, Money Order, Visa, Master Card, Paypal.
STANDARD results will be available within 3-5 business days after receiving specimen(s).
EXPRESS service is now available (results within 48 hours, including weekends/holidays.) Please add 50% to your total if you choose this optional service.
Send samples with completed form and payment to: Pet DNA Services of AZ, P.O. Box 7809, Chandler, AZ 85246-7809 (tel: 602-380-8552).
THANK YOU for YOUR BUSINESS!

FEATHER Collection:

Collect only freshly plucked feathers (not molted), containing the white follicle tip inserted in skin. Growing "blood" feathers (young birds) are also an excellent source of DNA.
From small birds (finch or budgie size) pluck 2-3 primary or secondary wing or tail feathers; from any larger birds pluck 4-6 feathers from the chest or back area.

BLOOD Collection:

Fill out the ID card - Avoid touching the circled area on the attached filter square with bare fingers!
Clean one of your bird’s toes with tissue and rubbing alcohol; let dry.
Using a clean nail clipping tool, trim the toenail at the point where the blood vessels are ending. If done correctly, a blood drop will form. It helps to massage the toe gently to increase the blood flow.
Apply enough blood to the circled area on the filter paper that it will soak through. Let dry and return card into the bag and seal.
If collecting blood samples from more than one bird, make sure to thoroughly clean the blades of the clipping tool between birds, to avoid cross-contamination of specimens.

EGGSHELL Collection:

Please dry eggshells from a hatchling as soon as possible after it hatches.
Place the sample in a labeled ziplock bag and send by regular mail in a padded envelope.

Pet DNA Services of AZ, PO Box 7809, Chandler, AZ 85246 Phone: 602-380-8552 Email: genes@petdnaservicesaz.com