Please watch the short video above which will guide you step-by-step through the process of submitting a sample and the key points to remember.
Submission boxes are provided free of charge and contain the following:
- Sample submission form
- Biohazard bag
- Absorbent padding
- Pre-paid, pre-addressed envelope
Please be aware that the submission box includes all items that are required to ensure your sample submission meets UN3373 packaging requirements. For more details on the P650 packaging instruction in relation to UN3373 please click here.
To request additional submission boxes, simply call our technical support team on 0800 3 047 047 or email technical.support@avacta.com
Download UK Submission Form
Our withdrawal guide outlines which medication is required to be withdrawn prior to sampling.
HOW TO SEND A SAMPLE
All samples are sent using Royal Mail’s ‘Tracked’ service. The following postal options are available:
Royal Mail Postal Drop Off
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- Royal Mail Red Pillar box (normal postal method). Simply place your sample submission envelope into your local postal box.
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- Post Office/Depot
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- Parcel Post Box (available 24/7). Please note the size limit for mail is 44cm x 35cm x 16cm.
- To see your local drop-off points, such as Post Office(s), Priority Post Boxes and Parcel Drop locations for pre-paid postal items (which includes tracked mail) visit: https://www.royalmail.com/services-near-you#/
- Please make a note of your tracking number before you post your item(s) in case you need to trace it at a later date.
Royal Mail Parcel Collection
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- With this FREE pre-paid on-line service you can now choose to book a collection for your Avacta post.
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- Simply visit: https://send.royalmail.com/collect/youritems
Download: Guide to booking a parcel collection
Download: Guide to how to track your sample
Royal Mail Cruciform © and Trade Mark of Royal Mail Group Ltd.
Reproduced by kind permission of Royal Mail Group Ltd.
All rights reserved. No part of Royal Mail Cruciform may be copied, issued, downloaded, communicated or otherwise used without the prior written permission of Royal Mail.
Checklist for serological allergy testing:
- A diagnosis of allergic disease has been made
- The animal was symptomatic when the sample was taken (this is the optimum time to sample)
- The animal is not on / has not recently been on any medication which could interfere with test results
- The animal has not been on a restricted diet for at least 8 weeks (applicable to food test only)
- The sample has been spun down to provide serum and to reduce the risk of haemolysis (if this is not possible double the volume of whole blood can be sent but this does increase the risk of repeat sampling being required)
- All samples are clearly labelled and minimum sample requirements adhered to
Do you suspect allergy but are not ready to test?
Our serum storage facility is available free of charge for three months, all year round. Your samples will be safely stored until you are ready to test, allowing you time to complete the case work up and saving you time and inconvenience. This service also enables you to:
- Sample when the animal is most symptomatic
- Time the sampling so it avoids any interference with medication
- Complete initial rule-out tests and / or diet trials
- Wait for insurance approval
- Allow the pet owner time to make a decision on allergy testing
Simply tick the box on your sample submission form to request the use of this free facility.
