C. E. Kord Animal Health Diagnostic Lab

NOTICE: The C. E. Kord Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory (Kord) is temporarily suspending companion animal biopsy service effective January 1, 2024. Starting that date, Kord will only accept biopsy specimens from food and fiber animals. Biopsy specimens from companion animals received after that date will be offered two options:

  1. The sample can be shipped back to the submitting clinic for a $25.00 shipping and handling fee, OR
  2. The sample can be shipped to an alternate laboratory to be chosen by the client, and the submitting clinic will be charged a $25.00 shipping and handling fee. The submitting clinic will also be responsible for payment of all fees associated with the biopsy at the alternate laboratory.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. If you have any questions, we are available 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. Our direct line is (615) 837-5125.


The C. E. Kord Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory provides free animal testing for food animals, fiber animals, and equines. Companion animal testing is offered for a fee to Tennessee pet owners and veterinarians.

By providing diagnostic services to food and fiber animal producers, we serve the needs of the livestock industry and promote animal health within the state. One of our primary goals is to quickly provide a diagnosis for herd health problems so that practicing veterinarians can provide effective treatment and management advice to area producers and prevent further herd losses.

Providing reduced-cost services for companion animals serves the needs of Tennessee pet owners and veterinarians. Monitoring animals in close contact with people aids in detection of emerging zoonotic diseases (passed from animals to people), anthroponotic infectious diseases (passed from people to animals), and environmental toxins. This function supports the vital worldwide collaboration among public and animal health officials known as the One Health initiative.

KAHDL supports animal disease diagnosis and regulatory activities within Tennessee. This includes post-mortem diagnostics and diagnostic testing on specimens from live animals, such as surgical biopsies and tissues to diagnose animal disease processes or to meet regulatory requirements.

Kord Lab Hours: Mon-Fri from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. We are closed on state holidays. Animals for necropsy should be dropped off before 3:30 p.m. If you have any questions please call 615-837-5125.

For More Information

Contact the Animal Health reception desk at 615-837-5125.

Mailing Address:
C.E. Kord Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory
P.O. Box 40627
Nashville, TN  37204-0627

Overnight Shipping:
C.E. Kord Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory
Ellington Agricultural Center
436 Hogan Road
Nashville, TN  37220