Mineral Levels Body Health Test Collection Instructions

Collecting and Submitting a Sample for Fur/Hair Mineral Analysis

The accuracy of a mineral analysis depends upon many factors. While the laboratory is responsible for the technical aspects of the test, the results will only be as good as the sample that is sent. The more care that is exercised by the person taking the sample, the more accurate the results will be.

Hair Sample Guidelines

Hair that has not been washed for more than four or five days is more prone to environmental contamination. If a salt-based water softener is used in the home, hair sodium levels may be affected. Dogs that swim in the ocean regularly will need to be kept out of it for several days and washed 1 - 2 days prior to collection.

  • The sample should be taken as soon as the pet is dry after washing. This allows the hair to re-equilibrate after washing.

  • Conditioner may be used but should be washed out. Leave-in conditioner is not recommended as it may affect the sample.

  • If your pet's hair is unable to be washed, clean the hair with rubbing alcohol before taking the sample.

  • 125 milligrams of clean hair is needed (approximately one (1) tablespoon)

  • Hair sample should not be any longer than 1 ½ inches in length, cut off any long ends

  • For long-haired animals, use the end closest to the skin

  • Do not pull up on the fur to tense the hair when cutting with scissors. This could result in cutting the skin. Use a comb as a barrier between the skin and scissors.

Steps to complete a fur/hair analysis for your dog, cat or horse:

Step 1: Schedule a consultation for around 3 weeks from today’s date using the link below. We will be discussing the results and your reviewing your pet’s history at that time. When you schedule this appointment, you will be promoted to pay for the test.

Do NOT skip this step. PLEASE NOTE: ANY TEST THAT ARE RECEIVED AT THE LAB THAT HAVE NOT BEEN PRE-PAID WILL BE CHARGED AN ADDITIONAL $50 PROCESSING FEE.

For Dogs or Cats schedule here

For Horses schedule here

Step 2: Collect the fur sample:

  • We recommend using clippers to collect the sample. You can purchase an inexpensive battery-powered beard trimmer to use as clippers. Clean the clippers with alcohol and a cotton ball prior to use

  • Clean scissors can be used if you do not have clippers. Care must be taken when using scissors as you can cut your pet's skin. Do not use scissors if you cannot visualize your pet's skin and avoid pulling the skin up when cutting.

  • The hair must be completely dry and CANNOT be washed or gotten wet with anything AFTER cutting

  • Collect at least one (1) full tablespoon of clean hair. A problem at the laboratory arises when too little fur is sent

  • Put fur in a clean paper envelope. Do not put fur directly into a plastic bag

  • Print your name, your pet’s name, date collected, and area of body where the fur was collected on the envelope.

  • When retesting, samples should be taken from the same general area as the original sample, if at all possible.

  • Hair does not deteriorate with time and the sample can be stored in a clean, dry environment indefinitely

Step 3: Fill out and print test:

  • This form MUST be filled out and included with the fur sample.

Step 4: Mail form and fur sample to the address on the form

Step 5: Complete the following forms:

1) Clinical Medical History Form for Dogs or Clinical Medical History Form for Cats - we request this to be filled out again every 6 months

2) New Patient Form (skip if you have already filled out this form)

We will go over the results at your 3 week consultation.

Please contact us with any questions: 808-353-8565 info@happypetshealth.com