Lancet Method | Blotter Card | Alternative Methods
Keys to Succesful DNA Collection | Unsuccessful Collection
For a printable version of these instructions, click here.
These instructions are intended to assist National Swine Registry breeders in collecting samples for submission to the NSR office and meet DNA requirements for sires when registering purebred Duroc, Hampshire, Yorkshire and Landrace litters. National Swine Registry only accepts official NSR Blotter Cards to meet these requirements. Cards must be purchased from the NSR office for $4 each. To order your cards via the web, click here.
Lancet method
| 1. Locate a vein on the ear. Clean the area with a cloth moistened with water or rubbing alcohol to remove dirt and other debris that may contaminate blotter card sampling. Wipe dry. |  |
| 2. Pierce the vein with the sharp end of the disposable lancet (provided) or a clean, sterile hypodermic needle. |  |
| 3. Withdraw the lancet and allow blood to collect on the skin's surface. |  |
| 4. Allow blood to drip onto the center of the blotter card paper. You may also carefully dab the card against the blood. Make certain the blood soaks through the blotter paper for proper sample colllection. |  |
| 5. Make certain that the sample is correctly identified with the owner, breed, ear notch and registration number. |  |
| 6. Allow the card to dry overnight with the flap open at room temperature. Do not use a heat source for drying. | |
| 7. Return the blotter card to the NSR office with the DNA Submission Form, and indicate the blood banking and/or diagnostic tests requested for the corresponding sample. |
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Blotter card
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Complete the space on the blotter card for Owner, Breed, Ear Notch and Registration Number immediately to assure that sample is properly identified. Complete the breeder information on the NSR Testing Form with the sample ID and Breed, and indicate the blood banking and/or diagnostic tests required for each corresponding sample. |
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Keys to Succesful DNA Collection | Unsuccessful Collection
Alternative collection procedures
Method 1: Transfer of blood from purple-topped (EDTA) tube to card
a. This method may be used after blood has been collected into a tube. A new syringe and needle or vacutainer is required for each animal to avoid possible cross-contamination.
b. The blotter card should be placed tightly on top of the open tube and then invert the tube and blotter card. Allow the card to dry completely before closing the flap and resending to the NSR office.
Method 2: Semen
Fresh, raw semen, extended semen or thawed frozen semen can be used. Caution should be taken to avoid cross contamination between animals. Place a drop of semen on the indicator circle on the blotter card. Allow the card to dry completely before closing the flap and sending to the NSR office.
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Keys to Succesful DNA Collection | Unsuccessful Collection
Keys to successful DNA collection:
» Wash and dry your hands before taking each animal's sample to avoid cross-contamination from you or another animal.
» One good blood spot that soaks through the blotter paper is preferred versus several small spots.
» Avoid touching the surface of the blotter paper with your hand to avoid cross-contamination from human or animal cells.
» Manure, dirt or saliva from another animal are all possible contaminants and should be avoided during sample collection.
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Keys to Succesful DNA Collection | Unsuccessful Collection
Unsuccessful Collection
If blood and semen collection methods are unsuccessful, contact the NSR office for suggestions on sample collection or to request a hair sample collection kit.
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Keys to Succesful DNA Collection | Unsuccessful Collection
