How to Collect a Stool Sample to Take to a Vet

Veterinarians often ask for stool samples from dogs for routine health checks or if the dog is experiencing health issues. If your vet suspects your dog has worms or if your dog is losing weight or having other gastrointestinal issues, he will need a stool sample to further investigate these issues. Although collecting a stool sample may not be something that a dog owner looks forward to, stool samples are a necessary diagnostic tool for veterinarians. Collecting a stool sample from your dog is easy to do and takes very little time.

Things You'll Need

  • plastic zip-top bag
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Instructions

    • 1

      Feed the dog and take it outside to have a bowel movement. It is important to get a stool sample that is fresh, and dogs tend to leave stools after they have eaten. After the dog has left the stool, you can collect it.

    • 2

      Turn the plastic bag inside out over the dominant hand. Use it as a glove to collect a part of the sample that is not touching the ground or the grass. This ensures the specimen is clean. Turn the plastic bag right side out over the sample and zip it closed.

    • 3

      Place the plastic bag into an opaque bag such as a brown paper bag to cover the stool sample. Store the sample in the refrigerator to be taken to the veterinarian's appointment the same day.