Planning ahead helps us provide the best possible service and ensures your samples are processed efficiently once they arrive at the Comparative Pathology Laboratory (CPL).
On this page, you’ll find what you need to:
- Choose the right type of submission
- Prepare forms, samples, and shipping
- Understand what to expect once your submission is received
Whether you’re submitting for diagnostics, health surveillance, or you’re submitting a research project, our goal is to make the process clear, predictable, and supportive.
Ready to move forward?
Continue below to start planning!
→ Before You Begin:
- Who can submit?
- Submissions are typically initiated by veterinarians, investigators, colony managers, or designated research staff.
- Clarify your goal
- Are you investigating a clinical concern, monitoring colony health, or collecting data for a research study? Knowing your primary goal helps us guide you to the correct services.
- Pre-submission questions
- If you’re unsure which tests or services you need, or if your study has unique requirements (e.g., limited sample volume, specialized endpoints, or serial sampling), we encourage a brief pre-submission consultation.
Please Contact Us in advance for complex or study-related submissions so we can help come up with a plan that fits your needs and objectives.
Begin your submission plan by choosing the appropriate partner category below.
Each link provides tailored guidelines and requirements to help you prepare your materials:
UC Davis partners (downloadable PDF)
UC Other partners (downloadable PDF)
External partners (downloadable PDF)
What to Expect After Submission
Once your submission arrives at CPL:
- Accessioning: Samples and forms are checked in, verified, and entered into our system.
- Testing and processing: Samples are routed to the appropriate laboratory service area.
- Review and reporting: Reports or data are typically returned via our secure online portal (link?).
Turnaround time depends on the type and complexity of testing requested. We can provide estimated timeframes when you plan your submission with us.
Tips for a Smooth Submission
To avoid delays and rework:
- Ensure that your submission form is complete, including billing information, estimate number (if applicable), and specimen IDs.
- Label all specimens clearly and consistently with the information included on your form.
- Package and ship samples according to recommended conditions.
- Contact Us with questions prior to shipping, especially for complex studies or non-standard samples.
Let Us Help You Plan!
We understand that not every case or study fits a standard template. CPL is available to help you design a submission plan that matches your animals, model, and research or diagnostic goals.
- Unsure about which tests to choose?
- Unsure how much sample you need or how to package it?
- Planning a new research study or surveillance program?