Registry — Procedure for DNA Testing Angus Cattle

Once you’ve decided on the animal to be tested, please contact the office with the tattoo and registration number of the animal that you want tested and your member ID number. If you wish to DNA test a new calf for which you are unsure of the sire, please submit an Application for Registration listing all possible sires. A DNA test kit will be sent to you and the registration will be completed when the DNA results are reported.

If you are handling your animals, collect a hair sample using the recommended collection process (below), and store it in a clean unused envelope, clearly labelled with the tattoo of the animal. Collected samples can be stored in a cardboard box indefinitely. Do not freeze the samples, keep them dry and away from any moisture.

The animal's age doesn’t matter. You can collect hair samples from your newborn calves for future parentage testing needs.

You can request a DNA kit by email, phone (1-888-571-3580), or by faxing (403-571-3599) or mailing the DNA Request Form.

Once we process your request, you will receive by mail the form for DNA testing and a hair sample envelope. The form must accompany the sample to the SRC Lab (GenServe). The hair sample envelope must be filled out properly to ensure that the animals are properly identified and for faster processing.

Always remember to contact CAA to obtain the necessary paperwork before sending the hair sample to the lab. Samples received by the lab without the DNA form will be billed an extra charge.

Instructions for Collecting Hair Samples

The hair samples should be collected from the tip of the tail of the animal (switch).

Make sure that the hair is clean, free from urine and manure. Dirty samples will not be processed.

Comb or brush the tail to remove dead hair.

Wrap about five hair strands around your finger, approximately 2 inches (5 cm) from the base of the tail, and then give a sharp pull. Inspect the hair and make sure the follicles are attached. Pull about 20 hairs per animal.

Secure the hair together with adhesive tape, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the follicles. Place the sample into the provided hair envelope. Seal the envelope immediately and identify the sample by writing the name, tattoo and registration number of the animal on the outside. Place one sample per envelope.

If collecting more than one sample or sampling different animals, make sure to clean hands, combs and brushes between animals to minimize cross-contamination.

Place the hair sample envelope and completed DNA form into a larger envelope and mail it to:

GenServe Laboratories

Suite 125-15 Innovation Boulevard

Saskatoon, SK

S7N 2X8

After results are obtained, they are sent to the Canadian Angus Association and we will forward the DNA certificate to you.  If there are any problems with the animal, we will notify you of the situation and suggest a course of action.

If you have any questions about DNA testing, please contact the Association.