Strict aseptic procedures must be used when collecting milk samples to prevent contamination with bacteria present on the cow's flanks, udder, teats or the sampler's hands.  Be sure to use the milking gloves and alcohol pads provided with the kit.  Do not culture cows treated with antibiotics within the past 14 days.

When taking the culture, pre-strip the quarter to be cultured.  Then, clean the teat end carefully with the provided alcohol swab.  Hold the enclosed sample vial at a 45 degree angle while squirting milk into the vial to prevent dirt from falling into the sample.  Freeze the sample immediately after collection.

Mail the frozen sample to the laboratory in the pre-paid mailer towards the beginning of the week.