Choosing appropriate collection and processing supplies is critical to obtaining quality samples. For blood collection, always use the largest gauge needle that your patient can comfortably handle. Minimal manual restraint is preferred and whenever possible, the sample should be collected directly into a processing container (i.e. vacutainer tube with appropriate anticoagulants). The choice of a specific type of collection method and container should also consider the size of the patient and volume of sample needed.

Choice of a particular vessel for collection of the sample considers the above factors as well as the type of sample needed. For routine analysis on cats and small dogs, the cepahlic vein is usually acceptable. For most other species and test conditions, the jugular vein is preferred.