Lasher Lab: Resources and Services
The mission of the Poultry Diagnostic Laboratory at the University of Delaware. in Georgetown, Delaware. is to provide diagnostic services to the Delmarva Peninsula commercial and private poultry producers in a timely and accurate manner. The laboratory is committed to support the research and educational programs of the university including interactions with other universities. regulatory agencies, commercial companies and individuals. In addition to competent personnel and facilities. accurate test results and diagnoses depend upon the condition of the samples submitted for analysis. We hope that these guidelines will be helpful in collecting and submitting quality samples. If there are any questions regarding proper sample collection or preparation. call the laboratory for clarification or specific directives.
NOTICE TO BACYARD BIRD OWNERS:
The University of Delaware can accept backyard bird submissions without pre-approval through the Delaware Department of Agriculture (DDA). Please call 302-831-3359 before dropping off birds to the University of Delaware Lasher Lab Holding Room. Please fill out the Non-Commercial Avian Accession Form (attachment link) completely as possible including owner contact information (phone number and/or email) for questions and laboratory results.
Currently, there is no charge to the backyard grower for Avian Influenza and Necropsy.
These costs are supported by the Delaware Department of Agriculture.
Test results depend on the tests needed. Necropsy reports include a clinical diagnosis. All test results are usually received within 10 days or less.
An Accession Form is required with each submission. Please download the form, fill it out and return it with your submission. For your convenience you may also complete the form at the lab.
Please call (302) 831-3359 with any questions. Thank you.
For all submissions, live or dead, please call our laboratory at (302) 831-3359.
Dead birds should be refrigerated, or placed in an iced cooler prior to submission. Please do not freeze.
Upon submission, please be sure to place the bird(s) in a clean container or plastic bag to prevent cross-contamination.
Please complete our Accession Form. This form should be placed with the bird for proper identification. The more information provided, the more insight and direction the lab will have to provide an accurate diagnosis.
On-site evaluations are available. For valuable birds, we can arrange for an on-site evaluation with the Delaware Department of Agriculture. Appropriate swabs or blood samples will be taken with minimal stress to birds. These will be tested for common poultry diseases and a full lab report will be provided.