Necropsy/General Investigation- Equine

Whole animals (no live animals accepted), tissue, and fluid samples

The general investigation submission fee covers a routine laboratory study for a whole animal or tissue samples submitted from a field necropsy.

Equine

If submitting tissues for general investigation, send both fixed and fresh tissues. Delays in tissue fixation can significantly affect results. Ratio of tissue to 10% formalin should be approximately 1:10 to avoid under-fixation. In cold weather, add 1 part ethanol to 9 parts 10% buffered formalin to prevent freezing during transit.

Necropsy with general investigation: $330 (includes handling fee)
General investigation only: $175
Gross necropsy only: $250

The general investigation submission fee covers a routine laboratory study which may include the following tests: histopathology with special stains, bacteriology (2 aerobic cultures and 1 anaerobic), PCR (1 individual or 1 multiplex test), virology (up to 2 select FAs, 1 EM), Cryptosporidia, and fecal flotation. Additional fees will apply for antimicrobial susceptibility testing, immunohistochemistry, clinical pathology, toxicology, serology, referral laboratory charges, and additional PCR, virology, bacteriology, and parasitology tests.

Use of necropsy and general investigation for disposal of an animal are strictly prohibited. Necropsies and general investigations are reserved for death investigations. Medical records should be provided in death investigations to accurately guide diagnostic testing.

Additional fees:
Private horse cremation = $1000 Note: Return of partial ashes included with cremation fee. If all ashes are requested, an additional $300 handling fee applies and clients must bring their own buckets (typically 5-6, 5-gallon buckets)
Additional fees apply if spinal cord removal is required for diagnosis.

Contact the laboratory for instructions prior to submitting cases involving insurance claims or litigation. Insurance case: $200. Legal cases will be charged $500 retainer fee associated with chain of custody handling.

Large animals arriving on enclosed trailers require removal of trailer stall dividers. Stall divider removal must be performed by the client. If the stall divider cannot be removed, then the large animal will not be unloaded.