Parapoxvirus
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Here you'll find answers to frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions about our veterinary diagnostic services, sample submission, and test results.
Which test material is required for testing for antibodies against rabies virus (FAVN test)?
For FAVN test we need a minimum of 0.5ml of serum. Serum can be prepared from a clotted blood sample (without anti-coagulant) by centrifugation. If serum is prepared under sterile conditions it will be stable at room temperature for several days. Cooling/freezing is generally not required during transport.
How long does the rabies antibody (FAVN) test take?
The test is carried out every Monday and Wednesday and takes 48 hours.
How do I receive test reports or certificates?
Certificates for the determination of rabies antibodies (entry of dogs, cats and ferrets into EU) are sent as originals by general post without tracking no. Sending by courier can be organized by clients. In addition, we can send certificates in advance by e-mail. Since 2025 we have been able to issue digitally signed certificates, you'll find all information on page rabies antibody determination.
Other test reports are sent by email or fax directly to the respective veterinarian, only in exceptional cases by post.
Other test reports are sent by email or fax directly to the respective veterinarian, only in exceptional cases by post.
What is required for a vaccine against Papillomatosis ?
We need at least 1g wart material in a buffered solution (e.g. phosphate buffer or physiological saline solution) with antibiotics, without formalin. The material will be prepared, fixed and adjuvanted (aluminum hydroxide). We are sending 2 vaccination doses to be given about 4 weeks apart.
Which sample material is required for specific tests?
What should be considered when sending samples from non-EU countries?
VVD has an import permit ("Einfuhrgenehmigung") for sample material of dogs and cats for rabies antibody testing. According to EU-regulations the import permit must be attached to the outside of the package.
According to information from customs in Germany, a proforma invoice must be enclosed for serum samples to detect antibodies against the rabies virus. Please note that costs can accrue at customs declaration or border inspection if the shipment was not created with all necessary details. Our laboratory does not cover any of these costs. To ensure a prompt processing of the samples, the shipment should declared with "Duty, Taxes Paid" service (DTP). If this is not the case VVD reserves its right to refuse the receiving. For that case the carrier is forced to return the shipment.
In order to ensure the handling of your samples, please note the following points:
According to information from customs in Germany, a proforma invoice must be enclosed for serum samples to detect antibodies against the rabies virus. Please note that costs can accrue at customs declaration or border inspection if the shipment was not created with all necessary details. Our laboratory does not cover any of these costs. To ensure a prompt processing of the samples, the shipment should declared with "Duty, Taxes Paid" service (DTP). If this is not the case VVD reserves its right to refuse the receiving. For that case the carrier is forced to return the shipment.
In order to ensure the handling of your samples, please note the following points:
- the contents must be correctly labelled/declared: "Non-infectious serum sample (dog or cat) for titration of rabies antibodies according to the EU regulation on movement of pet animals at an approved laboratory".
- if they choose DTP service ("duty taxes paid" all costs are borne by the sender),
- please enclose a pro forma invoice for EUR 1 or $1.
The above information must be clearly visible on the outside of the package (e.g. in the shipping bag).
We also recommend to use the incoterm "Delivery at Place" (DAP).
How long is a certificate valid?
The certificate for entry into the EU remains valid for the animal's life, provided that the animal is vaccinated regularly according to the vaccine manufacturer's instructions.
How should I send material for autogenous vaccines?
We recommend shipping in sterile physiological saline solution (0.9% NaCl) or similar with antibiotic additive (e.g. 5 -10 μg/ml enrofloxacin or ampicillin 100 μg/ml or benzylpenicillin 100 μg/ml + streptomycin 100 μg/ml or amphotericin B 5 μg/ml + gentamycin 100 μg/ml).
How are results and certificates corrected?
Results may need correction because of testing errors, sample mix-ups, data-entry mistakes, incorrect submitter details or additional tests on the same sample. Depending on the error and its impact, we inform the submitter immediately by telephone and/or email, as soon as possible by email, or through a written correction. Corrected results clearly state that they have been corrected and why, while the original data are retained. Travel certificates are amended only in justified exceptional cases and within strict limits on changes to identifying details. Every correction and permitted amendment is documented for traceability. Read the correction policy