Instructions for Taking Milk Sample Cultures
PLEASE WASH YOUR HANDS WITH SOAP BEFORE TAKING SAMPLES.
-
Prep: Wash the teats as usual to remove dirt and manure from the entire teat, paying close attention to the teat end.
-
Dry: Thoroughly dry the teat with a clean paper towel.
-
Sanitize: Wipe teat ends with an alcohol pad. Pro-tip: Start with the teats farthest away from you first to avoid contaminating clean teats with your arms.
-
Air Dry: Allow teats to air dry for 30–60 seconds.
-
Positioning: Open the collection vial and hold it at a 45-degree angle to prevent dust or debris from falling inside.
-
Sampling: * Strip 4 squirts of milk onto the ground/floor.
-
Then, strip 3 squirts into the vial, starting with the teat closest to you.
-
Ensure 3 squirts from each intended teat go into the vial.
-
-
Storage: Place samples immediately in the fridge. If you are still in the barn, use a cooler with an ice pack until you can get to a refrigerator.
-
Long-term Storage: If samples are not being sent to the lab within 2 days, they must be frozen.
Important Notes
-
Subclinical Mastitis: When sampling cows with a dead or black quarter, only take milk from the quarters that appear normal. This tests for subclinical mastitis (infections that do not show pronounced physical symptoms).
-
Clinical Mastitis: When sampling a cow with clinical mastitis (visible signs of infection), take samples from the infected quarters only.
— Dr. Thomas C. Roskos, DVM