How Fresh Does A Dog Poop Sample Have To Be? A Guide For Pet Owners

When collecting a dog poop sample, it’s essential to use a small bag like a poop collection bag or a plastic bag to gather a small amount of fresh feces immediately after your dog defecates. If your veterinarian has provided a fecal test tube for collection, that can be used as well. It’s crucial to seal the bag or test tube tightly to preserve the sample. In terms of sample viability, when stored at room temperature (unrefrigerated), the sample can remain suitable for up to 8 hours. However, if you place the sample in the refrigerator, it can remain viable for a longer period, typically ranging from 12 to 24 hours. This information is accurate as of September 16, 2022.

How long a stool sample remains fresh for testing is an important consideration. Stool samples can typically be stored and remain stable for up to 14 days after they are collected. To ensure that your sample is suitable for testing, it’s crucial to promptly register and return it to the laboratory. For example, if you collected the sample on April 27, 2022, you should aim to have it submitted to the lab within 14 days of that date. This ensures that the sample’s integrity is maintained, allowing for accurate and reliable test results.

Is it necessary for a fecal sample to be freshly collected? Yes, it is advisable to provide a recently collected sample whenever possible. If you are unable to send the sample on the same day it was collected, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its integrity. To do this, place the sample inside the sealed plastic safety bag provided and store it in the refrigerator until you can send it for analysis. This ensures that the sample remains viable for testing and provides accurate results.