Whole Genome Sequencing for Veterinary Diagnostics

When “identified” isn’t enough, sequence the whole genome.
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What you get from Whole Genome Sequencing

MiDOG Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) supports clinical decision-making by pairing genome-level microbial identification with clinically relevant genomic context, so you can interpret results and choose clearer next steps in complex or unresolved cases.

Included:

  • Genome-level microbial identification (higher discrimination than partial-target methods)

  • Genetic markers associated with antimicrobial resistance (genotype; supports stewardship discussions)

  • Genetic markers associated with virulence (presence/absence context to support interpretation)

  • Interpretation support to help prioritize clinical relevance in context

Optional add-on modules (when indicated): Parasites • DNA Viruses • Toxins

Parasites

Detects parasitic DNA when parasites are on the differential, supporting workups for GI disease, exposure risk cases, and patients with persistent or unclear clinical signs

DNA Viruses

Detects DNA viral targets when viral involvement is a concern, helpful for cases with atypical presentations, immunocompromised patients, or when bacterial/fungal results don’t fully explain the clinical picture.

Toxins / Biofilm Markers

Screens for toxin-related targets and biofilm-associated markers to add context in challenging infections, supporting interpretation when chronicity, recurrence, or treatment failure raises concern for additional virulence or persistence factors.

When should I add WGS?

Add WGS when you need higher confidence or the case isn’t resolving, especially when targeted tests or culture don’t provide a clear answer.

Best-fit scenarios:

  • Recurrent or non-resolving disease despite treatment

  • Culture-negative, inconclusive, or conflicting results

  • Suspected polymicrobial infection or mixed etiologies

  • High-stakes patients (immunocompromised, exotic/zoological, high-value animals)

  • Biosecurity or collection medicine needs (group housing, outbreak concern, entry/exit screening support)

Quick cue: If you’re widening the differential or questioning the ID, it’s time to add WGS.

How Whole Genome Sequencing Fits into the MiDOG Workflow: Start broad. Escalate when the case demands it.

MiDOG All-in-One Essential Test

Your report includes:
• Bacteria and fungi detected
• Antibiotic resistance profile for identified bacterial pathogens
• Supplemental context comparing results to MiDOG’s reference database

MiDOG Whole Genome Sequencing

When a case needs deeper characterization, Whole Genome Sequencing is used to assemble the organism’s genome and profile features such as antimicrobial resistance gene content, plasmids, and virulence genes.

The MiDOG Workflow

How to order WGS (no workflow disruption)

  1. Order through the MiDOG Portal
  2. Select your option: Essential Test, WGS + add-ons, or bundled option
  3. Collect the sample per standard submission guidelines for the selected sample type
  4. Submit as usual, same packaging and shipping workflow
  5. Receive your report through your standard results workflow

Workflow note: Same submission process.

Collect. Seal. Ship. Diagnose.

Fast, simple, and reliable for any species. This is how easy it is to collect your sample and ship it to us.

Collect

Use the sterile swab or urine collection materials provided in your kit.

Secure

Transfer your sample into the provided MiDOG tube, close tightly, and complete the test requisition form.

Ship

Place everything into the prepaid return mailer and send it back to our lab. U.S. shipping is free both ways.

Receive Results

Receive your full NGS report in 2-3 days of sample arrival

Expected turnaround time (TAT)

Typical TAT: 48 hours from lab receipt. Most reports are delivered within this window; sample quality, complexity, or reprocessing/QC may extend timing.

Sample types

MiDOG supports a wide range of sample types. If you’re unsure whether your sample is a fit, contact our team for guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do not hesitate to write us on the contact page and one of our consultants will contact you as soon as possible.

What is WGS and what does it change clinically?

MiDOG Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) is designed to support clinical decision-making by pairing genome-level microbial identification with genomic context. Clinically, WGS is most useful when you need higher confidence in what you’re dealing with, especially in complex, persistent, or high-stakes cases.

WGS can include genetic markers associated with antimicrobial resistance (genotype) and genetic markers associated with virulence (presence/absence context) to support interpretation and next-step planning.

Optional add-on modules (when indicated) expand the differential to include parasites, DNA viruses, and toxins.

When should I add it?

Add WGS when you need higher confidence or the case isn’t resolving, especially when targeted tests or culture don’t provide a clear answer.

Best-fit scenarios:

  • Recurrent or non-resolving disease despite treatment

  • Culture-negative, inconclusive, or conflicting results

  • Suspected polymicrobial infection or mixed etiologies

  • High-stakes patients (immunocompromised, exotic/zoological, high-value animals)

  • Biosecurity or collection medicine needs (group housing, outbreak concern, entry/exit screening support)

Quick cue: If you’re widening the differential or questioning the ID, it’s time to add WGS.

How does it compare to culture/PCR?

Culture: Helpful for phenotypic susceptibility and isolating viable organisms, but may miss pathogens due to viability issues, prior antibiotics, fastidious growth requirements, or mixed infections.

PCR: Highly sensitive for specific targets you choose, but you only detect what you test for.

MiDOG WGS approach: Culture-independent detection with broad coverage plus genomic context (including genetic markers associated with antimicrobial resistance and virulence) to support interpretation when you don’t want to “guess the panel” or when infections are complex.

Practical takeaway: Culture and PCR remain valuable. WGS is best when you need broader coverage or added clarity in challenging cases.

What sample types are supported?

MiDOG supports a wide range of clinical sample types, including:

  • Swabs (nasal, skin, ear, oral, wound)

  • Feces

  • Tissue

  • Fluids (joint fluid, bile, BAL)

  • Washes (eyes/nasal)

  • Nail clippings

… and more.

(All tests use the same submission process and kit.)

Is urine eligible for WGS and add-ons?

Yes. WGS and add-on modules are available for all species, including urine samples.

What is the expected TAT?

Typical TAT is 48 hours from lab receipt. Most reports are delivered within this window; sample quality, complexity, or reprocessing/QC may extend timing.

How do I interpret parasite, DNA virus, or toxin-related findings?

Interpret these findings with clinical correlation:

  • Detection indicates genetic material consistent with the organism/finding, but does not automatically prove it is the cause of clinical disease.

  • Consider signalment, exposure risk, compatible clinical signs, imaging/labs, and whether the site sampled matches the suspected disease process.

  • If results would change management and the clinical picture is unclear, consider confirmatory/orthogonal testing or repeat sampling.

What should I do if results are discordant with clinical signs?

A practical workflow:

  • Confirm sampling quality and relevance of the collection site.

  • Review timing (recent antibiotics/antifungals, stage of disease, lesion evolution).

  • Consider repeat sampling if signs persist or progress.

  • Reassess differentials (non-infectious etiologies, anatomic drivers, foreign body, immune-mediated disease, neoplasia).

  • Use add-on modules strategically when they fit the clinical picture and would alter management.

How do I request additional reports?

Request the Comparison and Time Series Reports through the same ordering workflow where report options are listed, or via the lab team if needed.

What support is available?

Need help deciding when to add WGS, interpreting results, or managing discordant findings? We’ll support you step-by-step:

  • First-line support (ordering, submission, status, basic questions): orders@midogtest.com
  • Clinical interpretation support: request a consult for result context, mixed profiles, or next-step guidance
  • Escalation to scientific team: for complex cases (polymicrobial profiles, unusual organisms, AMR/virulence marker questions, or high-stakes collection medicine)

Phone: (833) 456-4364

What to include when escalating: patient signalment, sample type, clinical summary, current meds/antimicrobials, and the specific decision you’re trying to make.

How do I order (step-by-step)?
  1. Select the core test (Essential Test for Dogs & Cats, Essential Test for Exotics, or Urine Test).

  2. Select your WGS option:

  • Core test only, OR

  • Add one or more WGS add-on modules ($50 each): Parasites / DNA Viruses / Toxins, OR

  • Bundle option (where applicable).

  1. Add optional reports if desired ($30 each): Comparison Report and/or Time Series Report.

  2. Submit using the same submission process and kit.

  3. Ship the sample and review results when reported (typical TAT: 48 hours from lab receipt; exceptions may occur with sample quality/complexity or reprocessing/QC).

Workflow note: Same submission process, no workflow disruption.