Early testing and proper reporting protect your flock, neighboring flocks, and public health. The resources below help you find trusted testing laboratories, state poultry officials, and disease control programs quickly if concerns arise.
State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratories
Every U.S. state has a state-approved veterinary diagnostic laboratory that can test poultry samples for infectious, nutritional, parasitic, and toxic conditions.
What state labs can help with
- Diagnostic testing for sick or deceased birds
- PCR testing for reportable diseases
- Necropsy (post-mortem examination)
- Guidance on sample submission and shipping
- Coordination with state animal health officials
How to find your state lab
Search online for “[Your State] Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory,” or ask your veterinarian to submit samples on your behalf.
Many state labs require:
- Advance notification before submission
- Specific packaging and labeling
- Refrigeration (not freezing) of samples unless instructed otherwise
National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP)
The National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP) is a federally coordinated program that works with each state to monitor and control poultry diseases.
Why NPIP matters to backyard flock owners
- Each state has an NPIP officer
- NPIP officers coordinate disease testing, certification programs, and reporting of regulated diseases
NPIP guidance is especially important if:
- Birds are being sold or moved
- New birds are added to a flock
- A serious disease is suspected
Find your state NPIP office
Official NPIP website:
https://www.uspoultry.org/programs/npip/
From there, you can:
- Locate your state NPIP coordinator
- Review testing requirements
- Learn about flock certification programs
Reportable Poultry Diseases
Some poultry diseases must be reported immediately to state or federal authorities.
Common reportable diseases include:
- Avian Influenza (AI)
- Newcastle Disease (NCD)
If you suspect a reportable disease:
- Sudden death in multiple birds
- Severe respiratory signs
- Neurologic symptoms
- Rapid spread through the flock
Do not move birds, eggs, or equipment.
Contact:
- Your veterinarian
- Your state diagnostic laboratory
- Your state NPIP officer
Early reporting protects everyone.
Sample Submission Tips for Owners
- Do not freeze birds unless instructed
- Refrigerate deceased birds (double-bagged)
- Use gloves and wash hands thoroughly
- Label samples clearly
- Follow lab instructions exactly
Your veterinarian can assist with:
- Sample collection
- Paperwork
- Shipping coordination
Salmonella and Human Health
Backyard poultry can carry Salmonella, even when healthy.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides excellent owner-friendly guidance.
CDC Poultry and Salmonella Information:
https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/backyardpoultry.html
Key reminders:
- Wash hands after handling birds or eggs
- Supervise children closely
- Do not allow poultry in kitchens or eating areas
When to Call a Veterinarian First
Contact a veterinarian experienced with poultry if:
- Birds stop eating or drinking
- Egg production drops suddenly
- Respiratory signs appear
- Lameness or neurologic signs develop
- Multiple birds show illness
Veterinarians help determine:
- Whether testing is needed
- Which lab is appropriate
- If reporting is required
Take-Home Message
Knowing where to go before a crisis happens saves time, birds, and heartache.
Keep this information accessible:
- State diagnostic lab contact
- State NPIP officer contact
- Veterinarian phone number
Prepared owners protect healthier flocks.
Recent Posts
About Us
At Canobie Lake Veterinary Hospital, we understand the true meaning of family. As a family-owned business, we believe in treating every pet who walks through our doors as part of our own. Our mission is simple: to help pets live long, happy, and healthy lives by providing professional, compassionate, and personalized care.