Where can you submit a tick found on an animal? - briefly
Submit the tick to your local public‑health department, a veterinary clinic, or a university‑affiliated entomology laboratory for identification and testing. These agencies usually supply guidelines for safe packaging and mailing.
Where can you submit a tick found on an animal? - in detail
If you discover a tick on a pet, livestock, or wildlife, the specimen can be forwarded to several specialized entities for identification, pathogen testing, or epidemiological reporting.
First, preserve the tick in a dry, airtight container such as a small vial with a cotton plug or a sealed plastic bag. If possible, place a label with the collection date, host species, and location (GPS coordinates or a detailed description). Avoid using alcohol if the goal is species identification, as it may damage morphological features.
The following organizations accept submissions:
- State or provincial public health laboratories – contact the local health department for mailing instructions and required forms.
- Veterinary diagnostic laboratories – many veterinary colleges and private labs process ticks for disease panels; request a submission kit from the clinic.
- Federal agencies – the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) operate tick testing programs; submit via their online portals or designated mail‑in addresses.
- Academic research groups – university entomology or microbiology departments often run tick‑identification services; check department websites for protocols.
- Commercial tick‑identification services – companies such as TickReport or IdentiTick provide paid analysis; follow the supplier’s packaging guidelines.
- Non‑profit wildlife health networks – organizations like the National Wildlife Health Center accept wildlife‑origin ticks for surveillance.
When sending the sample, include a brief form with the host’s species, health status, and any observed symptoms. Attach a prepaid envelope if the receiving laboratory supplies one. Record the tracking number and retain a copy of the submission documentation for reference.
After receipt, the laboratory will confirm the tick’s species, test for common pathogens (e.g., Borrelia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Rickettsia), and issue a report. The results can inform treatment decisions for the animal, guide preventive measures for owners, and contribute to regional disease monitoring efforts.