FAQS

When can I send serum or faecal samples?

Samples can be sent Monday to Friday, and we are open from 8 am to 5pm. We do not recommend sending samples on Friday for same day delivery in case of flight delays as samples may be held by the courier over the weekend.

Do I need to send serum samples on dry ice?

No. Once serum samples have been frozen, they can be sent on ice or with ice bricks for same day or overnight delivery.

Do I need to send faecal samples on ice?

Faecal samples for DNA-based PCR can be sent at room temperature, but samples wanting RNA-based PCR should be sent frozen on ice or in dry ice.

Why do I need to make arrangements with the ComPath prior to sending my animals?

It is essential that ComPath are notified of live animal shipments prior to arrival. This guarantees that our full complement of staff is available to process your submission as soon as it arrives. This prior notification also allows us to follow-up with couriers if the animals have not arrived within the expected timeframe. This way we know exactly where your animals are, any time of the day.

When is it best to send live animals to ComPath?

Live animals are best received Monday to Wednesday. At ComPath we pride ourselves on fast turn-around times and efficient handling of all submissions. As Microbiology panels require a minimum of two consecutive days of testing, it is preferred that animals do not arrive on Thursday or Friday, as this will mean that we cannot process animals requiring Microbiological testing until the following Monday.

I don't need Microbiology testing so can I send live animals any day of the week?

Samples not requiring Microbiological testing can be sent Monday to Friday. It is, however, still important to advise us of the shipment. Animals arriving on a Friday should be scheduled for Thursday overnight shipping. We do not recommend sending on Friday for same day delivery in case of flight delays leading to animals being held by the courier over the weekend.

But my animals are sick, I need testing urgently!

Our disease investigation or animal examination service is available as required. The laboratory is staffed 8-5pm Monday to Friday for all emergency and urgent requests. Please feel free to contact us anytime to facilitate your requirements.

We are also able to advise on testing required and gather clinical information and/or history from you to ensure that we have a thorough understanding of your needs.

Do I always need to include gel packs and food when sending live animals?

It is imperative that gel packs are always provided for the animals during transport to avoid dehydration or even death. Food is recommended, especially for overnight travel. The addition of food and water has implications on sample collection.

Including gel packs will ensure that animals are well hydrated and blood samples can be collected easily, decreasing risk of interference and insufficient sampling in Serological testing. If food is included, this ensures ample faecal and intestinal samples can be collected and decreases the risk of insufficient sampling for testing in Histology, Microbiology, Parasitology and Molecular Diagnostics.

When is it too HOT to send live animals?

In summer it is even more important that we know about your live animal submission. It is recommended that live animals NOT be sent if temperatures are expected to exceed 35°C at either departure or arrival destinations. The animals can be waiting on hot airport tarmac for extended periods of time, leading to dehydration and in some cases death. Temperatures can vary dramatically throughout Australia. If your shipment is expected on a day where the temperature is expected to exceed 35°C in Adelaide, a staff member from ComPath will contact you and advise that the shipment be rescheduled.

Can you return my live animal shipping containers?

We are able to wash and return shipping containers. Simply let us know when you are scheduling the delivery that you will be requiring this service and we can arrange for them to be sent back to you using your preferred courier company. Sterilisation of containers will not be performed.

How long before I receive Microbiology / Histology results?

Health Monitoring results are ready within 7 to 10 working days. Results for Disease Investigations may take a little longer as they may require further Microbiological and/or Histological testing. If you would like updates on testing, we are more than happy to discuss interim results via telephone or email.