Submitting Your Samples
Your samples unlock the door to a world of genetic tools and information, but it has to be processed first. Let’s talk about what you need to know.
First things first.
Before ordering DNA testing, animal data must be recorded with the Association. This information includes animal ID, sex, date of birth and sire and dam identification. This can be completed within AAA Login, accessed through the link below.
When you’re ready to order your tests, sign in to AAA Login and locate the order option under the “DNA” menu item. You’ll create a new testing order and submit your animals. Then, submit the completed file when you check out. A confirmation email is sent upon receipt of the order. Print and include it with your samples. Blood and TSU samples are preferred.
Need help navigating AAA Login?
Once you’ve ordered your tests through AAA Login, you’re on the home stretch! All that’s left is mailing the samples to AGI® and waiting for results.
Before mailing, allow blood samples to dry for 24 hours before mailing. When sending TSUs, please provide an electronic copy of the barcodes and ID numbers in AAA login uploading the provided template.
Include your order confirmation printout with the samples, and mail the samples to us.
Angus Genetics Inc.
3201 Frederick Ave
Saint Joseph, MO 64506
DNA Sample FAQs
TSUs must have the accompanying spreadsheet with bar codes emailed or uploaded, because they identify which tube pairs with which calf. Submit this spreadsheet when the order is submitted to avoid additional charges. TSU tubes must be mailed in a padded envelope or a box. A regular envelope will tear in processing, which results in an empty envelope arriving at the office.
No matter the method, make sure the card stays clean from contaminants such as dirt, manure, blood from a different animal, etc. Cover the area designated for the blood sample with blood but do not oversaturate. The samples need to be set out to fully dry before mailing, as mold creates issues when using the sample.
Before entering calves in the calving book, create a “Sire Group” that includes the bulls the females were exposed to. When entering a calf in the calving book, use the created sire group for the sire information. This will allow the quickest processing and make it relatively easy to compare all sires in the group.
Include your order confirmation with the samples. Make sure the samples are clearly identified (which sample goes to which animal). If the samples are time sensitive, overnight or mail with a tracking number, and do not use regular mail.
From the time the samples are received in the office to the time DNA results are returned, it takes 3-4 weeks. Remember that if an animal must be retested or an alternate sample is needed, that will take additional time. Start the process as early as possible before the results are due for a sale or event.
Results are posted when available in your AAA Login account. Find them under the “DNA” menu by clicking “Test Results” and then “View Results.”
Submitting other sample types
How to submit a semen sample
Insert a thawed semen straw into a writing pen with the ink tube removed. Provide animal identification (tattoo and/or tag number) on the straw of semen and send at room temperature in a padded envelope or small box.
How to submit a blood tube
Mark the purple-top tube with the animal’s identification (tattoo and/or tag number). Fill the tube with 6-9 mL of blood, and refrigerate promptly in a stand-up rack between 4-10° C (39.2 - 50° F). Do not freeze. Ship samples overnight with a cold pack in an insulated cooler or container.
How to submit a semen sample
Insert a thawed semen straw into a writing pen with the ink tube removed. Provide animal identification (tattoo and/or tag number) on the straw of semen and send at room temperature in a padded envelope or small box.
How to submit a blood tube
Mark the purple-top tube with the animal’s identification (tattoo and/or tag number). Fill the tube with 6-9 mL of blood, and refrigerate promptly in a stand-up rack between 4-10° C (39.2 - 50° F). Do not freeze. Ship samples overnight with a cold pack in an insulated cooler or container.
