How to: collect a poo sample from your dog

Step-by-step guide
- Make sure the poo sample is as fresh as possible and not contaminated by soil or water.
- If your vet has provided you with a pot, use the plastic stick inside the lid to scoop some of the poo into it. Otherwise, just use an ordinary poo bag or clean plastic container.
- If possible, collect a large sample – at least half-fill the tube. However, If your dog has severe, watery diarrhoea, this may be very difficult – try to get as much as possible.
- Screw the lid on firmly and label it with your dog’s name and the time and date of collection.
- Take the sample to your vet practice as soon as possible – a fresh sample is likely to provide the most accurate information.
- If you have an appointment booked already, collect your sample on the same day, as close to the appointment time as possible.
What is a poo samples tested for?
Your dog’s poo sample may be tested for:
- Parasites
- Blood (gut bleeding)
- Bacteria
- Digestion problems and other diseases.
Your vet may check the sample ‘in-house’ or send it away to a lab for further tests.
Published: August 2019
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Written by vets and vet nurses. This advice is for UK pets only.
Illustrations by Samantha Elmhurst