Information for Pet Owners
Veterinary Expertise That Protects Animals and Ensures High-Quality Research Outcomes
Animal Samples for Research
Scientific research is highly dependent on the availability and quality of biological samples. Samples such as tissue, blood and other biofluids allow researchers to study biological functions, health and diseases in humans and animals. High-quality animal samples are crucial for veterinary research because without them, understanding diseases is not possible. Without understanding diseases, treatments and preventive measures against them cannot be developed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers to common questions about our biospecimens, services, ordering process, and research support options.
Scientific research is highly dependent on the availability and quality of biological samples. Specimens such as tissue, blood and other biofluids enable researchers to study biological functions, health and diseases of humans and animals. High-quality animal samples are critical for veterinary research because without them, understanding diseases will not be possible. Without understanding diseases, treatments and preventative measures against them cannot be developed.
Lab4Paws‘ biobank stores samples and data for the long term:
- For research to improve disease prevention, detection, and treatment
- For biomedical links in a study of larger animal groups
- Not for diagnosis of pets or other animals
Donating samples and data from pets gives no direct advantage or benefit for your health.
BUT, findings can be of help to your pet’s health only IF:
- Results suggest your pet has a serious, previously undetected disease AND
- The discovered disease can be treated or prevented
As part of this biomaterial collection, we ask you to donate one or more of the following samples:
- Serum, plasma and/or whole blood
- Biopsies or punch biopsies from resectates
- Urine
- Samples taken in a non-invasive way (i.e. causing no additional stress to the animals, including restrictions) such as tears, buccal swabs, faeces
- Other data such as radiographs, exam results, and general information regarding the patient (such as age, gender, breed, disease diagnosis or treatment)
- No, your pet will not suffer additional pain or injury. Samples are derived from routine analysis or treatment.
- Sample collection more invasive than needle insertion is not necessary because routine diagnostic and surgical procedures usually produce such samples.
- Non-invasive/non-stressful procedures such as swab, tears and feces collection are only done after medical examination by your veterinarian to see if your pet’s health or your preference permits them.
- Adverse effects or risks are rare.
Some information can be traced back to your pet due to transparency in scientific research. But, no data from you as owner is collected. Lab4Paws ensures that redundant protocols are in place to anonymize patient data but privacy risks can only be reduced as data accumulates.