*For DNA Fingerprinting VITA-TECH recommends the use of a veterinarian for third party confirmation.

1. Easiest method: After wiping the area with an alcohol swab, let dry briefly. Ensure toe nail clipper is cleaned and wiped with alcohol between birds. Use toe nail clippers to clip the wing tip claw short enough to start bleeding. Squeezing the wing with a pumping action will help to speed the blood flow. Let 4 - 5 drops of blood fall into the vial (enough to colour the vial liquid red). "Kwik Stop" cautery powder can be used to stop the bleeding.

2. Needle and Syringe method: Use a small (tuberculin) syringe to draw the sample from the inside leg vein. On older birds use the leg or a wing vein. Thoroughly clean the skin with alcohol prior to collection. Draw approximately 0.1- 0.2 cc of blood. Put the blood in the vial and tightly seal the vial lid. Use a new needle and syringe for each bird. Cross contamination of blood between blood vials may result in false results.

3. Complete the vial label, leaving the Code blank. Wrap the label around the vial so that the free edges stick together. Please make sure that the information is visible. Ensure that the bird ID is accurately recorded and complete the information on the submission form.

4. Put the vials in a "zip-lock" bag and wrap in bubble wrap or facial tissue. Place the vials, submission form and full payment in an envelope or box. Forward to Vita-Tech Inc. by mail, courier, or Canada Post: Express Post & Priority Post. Full Payment + GST per sample must be included. Cards, feathers and vials are the same price for DNA sexing.