Skip to main content

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use swabs other than the ones provided by GenSol?

We understand that it may be convenient for some breeders who prefer to use their own swabs. However, to offer the fastest and most affordable testing in the industry and maintain our high standards of accuracy we utilize a standardized process. Part of the process includes using carefully selected and tested swabs. This rigorous process enables us to guarantee accurate results, at very competitive prices and with a turnaround time (24 to 48 hours from receiving the samples) that other labs cannot match.

Do you offer tests not listed on your website?

All GenSol tests that have been validated and are currently offered are listed on our website. If you need a test we do not currently offer, please email us at [email protected] and we will consider adding it to our menu.

Why do you use cheek swabs instead of a blood sample? Is a cheek swab as good as a blood sample?

Using cheek swabs reduces owner costs because they can take the sample themselves. The DNA extracted from the swab is done in a similar manner to human forensics where cheek swab testing is common practice. The DNA is of sufficient quality and quantity for this type of testing.

If I used your testing service, would I be able to submit the results to OFA?

Yes, most of our tests are accepted by OFA. Click here for detailed instructions.

How long will the testing take?

Results are typically available within 24-48 business hours after arriving at the laboratory. In the event of insufficient sample DNA quantity or quality, testing can take longer than 48 hours.

Does the dog’s age impact the results?

No. The dog’s DNA does not change from birth and even following death. So, dogs can be tested at any stage of their lifetime.

My dog came back “affected,” now what?

Make an appointment to see your veterinarian and bring the test results along for review. With a proper clinical exam, the veterinarian will be better able to determine the disease’s progress, as well as give you a plan of action to delay further onset as much as possible.

I need to receive my swab kit quickly, do you offer expedited shipping?

Absolutely. We can ship via USPS utilizing Priority Mail or Priority Express. Priority Mail Express guarantees 1-2 business day delivery to most US locations and Priority Mail offers delivery in 3-5 business days, depending on location in the United States. For customers outside the US, International Priority Mail Express offers delivery in up to 5 business days, while International Priority Mail offers delivery in up to 14 business days.

I should have received my results by now, where are they?

Please refer to your tracking information provided in an email from [email protected] to see if your package has arrived at our lab, the delay could be in shipping. If your tracking indicates that your package has arrived, and it has been over 48 hours, please check your spam folder for a result email. If you do not see a result email in your inbox or spam folder, please contact our customer support so they can assist you further.

I’ve ordered several swab kits; do I have to use them all at the same time?

You do not have to use all your swabs at once, however, we only provide one postage-paid return envelope. Subsequent swabs will have to be mailed back to GenSol Diagnostics at your expense. We do recommend that you purchase tracking with your return samples.

Do you accept dew claws or tails from my puppies instead of swabs?

We currently do not accept dew claws or tails. Swabbing puppies is easy and swabs are soft, and gentle for little mouths. We just ask that you swab your puppies 1 hour after feeding.

Do you include postage-paid return envelopes for Canadian and International orders?

Due to customs regulations, we are unable to include return postage for shipments originating outside of the United States. Below are the instructions on how to properly label and address the package when sending your samples back to our lab.

Please follow these steps:

  1. Label the package clearly with the following address:
    GenSol Diagnostics
    125 North Main Street, Unit 1846
    Clayton, GA 30525
    USA
  2. Use appropriate packaging to protect the samples during transit. It’s important that the swabs are sealed properly and packed securely.
  3. Obtain tracking information from your postal or courier service. This ensures you can monitor your shipment and confirm its arrival at our lab.

We strongly recommend using a reliable postal or courier service and keeping the tracking number for your records. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Why are results reported only to the person listed on the certificate? I purchased the test and shouldn’t I get a copy of the result?

Due to issues of confidentiality, results are only forwarded to the email address associated with the sample. Results can be shared or transferred easily within the owner’s online account manager.

Can I still order individual tests?

Yes, individual tests are still available.

Can I use my previously purchased tests as panels?

Unfortunately, our current technology cannot achieve this type of exchange however, because we offer the highest level of flexibility in the industry and understand the importance of timely testing, we have an option available to accommodate your request promptly. In order to do this, our customer service team will need to assist. Please contact us at 844-369-3686.

Why wouldn’t I test my dog for every test that you offer?

You do not have to test your dog for every test we offer. This is why our panels are fully customizable. We only recommend tests that are relevant to your dog’s breed which eliminate unnecessary testing, reduce costs, and only provide the results you need for health and breeding decisions.

If I do not agree with my results, what should I do?

GenSol test result accuracy is assured by quality control procedures used for each sample we test that determines the quantity and quality of DNA present in the sample. We want our customers to have confidence in their results and we are happy to review any results you have concerns about. Please contact our customer service at [email protected] and request a review of your sample for any potential discrepancies.

Does GenSol share my results with anyone other than myself?

No, GenSol does not share your results with any other party, and we will not give results over the phone. Results are only shared with the email address associated with the sample.

Do you test for parentage/paternity or breed identification?

GenSol is currently focused on inherited diseases, coat color, and coat type testing and does not offer parentage or breed identification at this time.

How old do puppies have to be before I can test?

Dogs and puppies of any age can be tested. We use a simple non-invasive cheek swab that is gentle enough for young puppies. For testing puppies that have not yet been weaned, we require that the sample be taken at least 1 hour after feeding.

Can you tell me more about your Loyalty Program?

Our Loyalty Program rewards our customers with a $50 discount, for every $500 they spend with GenSol after June 22nd, 2023. You do not have to spend $500 all at once, instead, you will earn one point for every $10 you spend with GenSol. You can log in and watch your points grow! Once you have accumulated 50 points, you can use those points for $50 off your next order.

Do you have a referral program?

Yes! Our Refer a Friend Program allows you to share your very own coupon code with friends who have never used GenSol. You must have an account with GenSol and have made a prior purchase with GenSol of $50 or more.

Make sure you are logged into your account. Go to the Refer a Friend Page, enter your friend’s email address in the field provided, and click “send”! It’s that easy!

When you send a referral email to a friend your friend will receive an invitation to GenSol and a coupon code that will give them $25 off their first purchase when they spend $50 or more on their first purchase.

Once your friend makes their first purchase, you will receive a $25 credit on your account. Currently, referrals are limited to six.

If this does not answer your question, please call our customer service and they will be happy to assist you further.

How does free shipping work?

GenSol offers free first-class shipping on all domestic (within the US) orders of $75 or more. If you are inside the United States, and your order totals $75 or more, you will receive free first-class shipping. If you choose Priority or Priority Express, your expedited shipping cost will be significantly reduced. 

I have a coupon code from my breed club, but the discount is not being applied to my order.

GenSol’s Breed Club Discount Program ended on June 22nd, 2023. We have replaced the Breed Club Program with our new Partner Program. The good news is with the addition of GenSol’s Customizable Panels, we now offer our best price every day, without the need for a coupon. See new pricing here.

How does the Partner Program work?

Our Partner Program offers breed clubs a unique coupon code that will give their members 20% off their first order with GenSol.

When a breed club joins our Partner Program and places the GenSol Partner button on their website they will receive a coupon code to share with their members.

If you are an official officer of a breed club, and your club would like to join our Partner Program and offer your members 20% off their first order at GenSol, you can contact us at [email protected] to learn more about joining the program.

Can I turn 5 individual swabs that I have in my inventory, into a one-swab panel for five tests?

Unfortunately, our current technology cannot achieve this type of exchange. Tests that have been purchased as individual tests can only be processed as individual tests.