The involvement of a referring veterinarian when submitting specimens or animals for necropsy is encouraged. Veterinarians provide professional assistance in completing the clinical history, interpret the laboratory findings, and help develop a disease prevention and control plan for farms and premises with multiple animals. The diagnostic laboratories are not veterinary clinics, and laboratory veterinarians do not prescribe treatment or otherwise provide veterinary services.
Specimens shipped in containers with spillage or other damage due to improper packaging create safety issues for couriers and laboratory personnel. Laboratory testing may be impaired or delayed by damaged or contaminated samples. Receiving personnel are directed to document problem specimens and report in writing to the submitting party.