Depending on how quickly a breeder returns the tissue samples to the lab, there is the potential to have initial results within a 4-week period.
The Steps are as follows:
- Breeders can login to their Sheep Ireland account and select the animals they wish to genotype. This facility is open to LambPlus and non-LambPlus breeders. Hill flocks need first to register their animals here if they are not on the database (click).
- Once the sample has been ordered the breeder should receive the DNA tags within 3-5 working days from the tag provider. The breeder takes the tissue sample and the tag should remain in the ear (if any questions about parentage results arise this tag will rule out a sampling error by the farmer). Breeders return the samples using a pre-addressed envelope.
- Once the lab receives the samples they will be scanned into their database and the breeder will see the sample status update to “Received at the Lab“.
- Once the genotyping process has taken place, the lab issues a result file which is sent to the Sheep Ireland database. This step can take up to 4 weeks.
At this point the database automatically applies quality control checks, parentage verification is run on all genotypes and predictions are applied. Parentage results are analysed and tested before the update the breeder’s results profile. If parentage errors are found, the owner as well as the relevant society will be notified, with incorrect parentage being removed/updated. 
Where can I check the genomic results?
Breeders can check their results via their Genomic Results Screen (click here to see how).
Genotyping Subsidy:
Subsidised genotyping applies to all LambPlus flocks at €15 per animal if their DQI is above 40%, and for Hill flocks members of Breeding Groups.
This facility is open to all breeds. The full genotyping cost (€24.60 per animal) applies to:
- Non-LambPlus flocks,
- LambPlus members with a DQI score below 40%,
- Hill flocks not members of Breeding Groups.
DNA collection:
- Follow the DNA collection guide enclosed with your DNA collection Kits
- Ensure the sheep is properly restrained
- Only take samples from clean & dry ears
- Disinfect the ear after the sample is taken
- Leave the tag in the ear where possible
Handling DNA Samples
- Refrigerate samples ASAP (avoid freeze-thawing of samples)
- Send samples at the start-mid week to avoid samples being stuck in the post over the weekend
