Frequently Asked Questions
About Our Service & Kits
How does the mail-in testing service work?
It’s a simple 4-step process:
Order: Purchase the test kit you need online.
Collect: When the kit arrives, follow the instructions to collect a fresh sample from your animal.
Post: Place the sample in the provided return packaging. If selected, contact us to book your return or use your own courier to send it back to our lab.
Results: We analyze the sample and email you a PDF report within 24–48 hours of receiving it.
Why should I test instead of just deworming regularly?
Testing saves you money and protects your animals’ future health. Blanket deworming (treating animals blindly) leads to anthelmintic resistance, meaning the drugs stop working. By testing first, you only treat the animals that actually have a high parasite burden, saving you the cost of unnecessary medication and preserving the effectiveness of dewormers.
What is included in the testing kit?
Each kit contains everything you should need to collect your sample. The kit will contain a sample collection bag/tape, disposable glove(s), a pen, Information Sheet, and return packaging. Information on how to collect your samples and return them can be found in our Packaging Instructions.
How long will it take for my kit to arrive?
How long will my results take?
We aim to process samples as soon as they arrive at the lab. Once received, our typical turnaround time is 1–2 working days, but this may be longer depending on the type of tests requested and current laboratory workload.
Are these tests as accurate as a vet?
Yes. Paragon Scientific is a professional laboratory using industry-standard McMaster counting techniques. Our equipment and methodology are identical to those used by veterinary pathologists, providing you with accurate, scientific data.
Shipping & Postage Questions
Is return postage included?
You also have the option to return your Kit yourself. If you select this option at checkout, a courier fee of R150 will be added for delivery, however returning your Kit will be your responsibility and for your own account.
We offer free delivery and collection for orders over R3500.
Can I drop off my samples?
Yes. We are happy to receive your samples at our Lab if you would rather drop them off instead of using a courier. Contact us to arrange a time and day for drop off. We can only accept samples by prior arrangement, so please contact us before visiting the Laboratory.
How do I package my samples for return?
Your kit should include everything you need to return your samples, and our detailed Packaging Instructions should tell you how to correctly package and return your samples.