Positive Then Negative? – Why Retesting Surprising Results Is a Critical Best Practice
Richard Martinez's experience is a valuable reminder about the nature of rapid testing: "Tested my asymptomatic dog — showed positive. Panicked and retested immediately with a fresh strip — negative. Vet PCR confirmed negative. First test was a fluke. Always retest if result surprises you."
While the PawsXfun Canine Coronavirus Rapid Test Kit is highly accurate, Richard's experience is a crucial lesson in troubleshooting.
Why retesting is a critical best practice:
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Sample variability – fecal samples can be inconsistent; retesting confirms results
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User error – a tiny error in procedure (e.g., too much sample, wrong timing) can affect results
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Rare manufacturing defects – while individual tests are packaged for freshness, a single strip might be faulty
Best practices for reliable results:
| Step | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Sample collection | Use fresh, representative feces or vomit |
| Timing | Read results within the 5-10 minute window; don't read after 15 minutes |
| Unexpected positive | Retest immediately with a new strip from the same kit |
| Persistent positive | Confirm with your vet via PCR test |
What Richard's experience taught us:
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A surprising result (especially a positive in an asymptomatic dog) warrants a second test
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Second tests often confirm the correct result
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Trust your instinct – if something seems off, retest
The kit includes 5 tests, making retesting easy and practical. This is especially important for valuable or beloved dogs, or in foster situations where a positive result would trigger isolation.
Get reliable results with confirmation testing – order your 5-pack now
