This year, the laboratory is changing the methodology used to detect bovine neonatal diarrhea agents. Instead of electron microscopy and microscope evaluation of acid-fast stained smears, PCR will be used for detection of bovine coronavirus, bovine rotavirus, and Cryptosporidium spp....

Recently released USDA regulations require several changes in the manner which the laboratory handles EIA submissions. The laboratory now must ensure all forms are complete and accurate and the regulations now limit our ability to correct form errors. Please review the...

Two chickens of unknown breed – one adult and one juvenile – were submitted for autopsy. The farm that housed the chickens has a history of sudden death in adult chickens and lethargy, weakness and diarrhea in the younger ones. Grossly,...

With seasonably cold weather in the area, it is important to consider effects of freezing on samples sent to the laboratory for testing. Certain samples may be particularly impacted by freezing and may be rejected for testing due to known...

Johne's (Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis) testing season is upon us, which means it is a good time to share helpful tips to ensure the fastest turnaround time for your samples as well as reminders of our testing policies....

On Friday, November 8 a building renaming ceremony was held to honor former North Dakota state senator, Bill Bowman. Family, friends, and former colleagues gathered to share stories and to honor the man who has been a major advocate of...

Proper sample collection and handling practices help to ensure the most accurate test results. View our new Serology Test Guide for information about best practices for collection and handling of samples for serology testing. Looking for other resources? Visit our "Resources"...

October 13-19 is National Veterinary Technician week. It's a week to recognize the skilled and hardworking vet techs that work with us each day. Their roles are a little different at the VDL compared to traditional clinic or hospital work,...

A guide for submission of rabies samples is now available. Sometimes it can be difficult to know which samples would be best for a particular test. Our guides are intended to help our clients collect the best samples because the...

The laboratory now offers pooled testing for Bovine Leukemia Virus (BLV) at a rate of $35 per pool of 5 samples. Samples in positive pools are automatically retested at $15 per sample. Testing is performed on pooled EDTA samples. Visit...