Submitting for necropsy, how does that work?

[Tracyree]

I am planning on having a necropsy done Monday unless this hen makes a huge turn around. Using the state lab. If she is still alive at that point, do you submit LIVE animal or need to have vet euthanize first?

 

[OrpingtonManiac]

I'm not an expert, but i presume they have to be euthanised first

 

[Eggcessive]

What state are you in? Each state is different. Some states may euthanize while some do not. Some states are easier to deal with. The body should be kept cold in a color on ice, but do not freeze it. Call early tomorrow morning, and ask for details, and about euthanization and cost. Here is a list of state vets:
https://www.metzerfarms.com/poultry...7IOlHOhP-eD8qMtZ70RNq6BMO9kVUn3x6so7q0Z_JgEr8

 

[FrostRanger]

You would have to euthanize the animal first. After that you'd keep the animal in the fridge - do not freeze her - in a garbage bag and send her in a Styrofoam cooler with an ice pack - a quick tip, ask around at your local pharmacies as they get disposable ice packs packed in with shipments of medications that require refrigeration. They just throw them away when they're done so if you ask nicely they might give you some if they have any. My state has a form that you need to send in with the bird so you'd put that in as well, but follow the directions of your state's lab. From there you'd mail or drop her off. Again, check what that particular lab wants you to do and if in doubt, call and ask them

 

[Eggcessive]

In Ohio, it is inexpensive if you take the body to the lab personally, while if you ship it, it will cost more. I would urge you to call yours first for details. Some states will put them down. Cost varies a lot from state to state. Always tell them it is for a backyard bird, not commercial which is less cost.

 

[Tracyree]

Thanks all. Luckily I live about 15 minute away from our lab. I’ll call them Monday morning and ask about euthanasia. Their “use guide” says “livestock that does not pose a threat to laboratory personnel will be euthanized for necropsy” so it looks like they may provide that service, but I’ll call before i show up.