The good news is that the vet can draw blood later this afternoon from our three alapcas that are travelling next week. Tara Timpson the vet then believes we can have the samples tested and results back pretty quickly.

The blood draw is straght forward and we collect enough blood for two tests initially we will use the quicker less expensive PCR test and if we get a positive then I will request a VI test on the same sample:

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a commonly used test for diagnosing BVDV. The sample is tested directly without first replicating the virus in cell cultures. The PCR test reacts with a specific segment of the viral genetic material. Since it is so sensitive, it is more prone to giving a false-positive reaction. However, diagnostic laboratories go to great lengths to control this problem; very rarely is a false diagnosis made. It is a very rapid test with results available within a day after the sample is processed.


Virus isolation (VI) is the gold standard for detecting BVDV. Using serum, white blood cells (WBCs). After a sample is received and processed, it is inoculated into cell cultures and virus allowed to replicate. Other procedures are used to detect presence of the virus. This test is very sensitive for identifying virus-infected animals if samples are taken properly.

This two stage approach is my idea and I am no expert but our vet Tara Timpson agrees with the approach so that is good enough for me.

James Herriott never had all these lab tests ......


By Adrian Stewart