Necropsy Services Group / Q & A (sec3)

Understanding Forensic vs. Non-Forensic Necropsies

Not every case that involves questions or concerns is a forensic case. A forensic necropsy is one where the findings may be used as legal evidence — typically involving law enforcement, animal control, civil litigation, or official investigations. In contrast, most private necropsies are diagnostic in nature: they are pursued by concerned pet owners or veterinarians to understand why an animal died.

Q&A's SECTION 3

What makes a case “forensic”?

We consider a case forensic when it is part of a formal legal process or investigation. This includes:

• Requests from law enforcement, animal control, or an attorney

• Ongoing investigations into suspected abuse, neglect, poisoning, or liability

• Situations where a legal chain of custody is requiredIn forensic cases, we follow strict protocols for documentation, photography, and evidence handling.

If you are a private owner with concerns — such as suspected poisoning, trauma, or veterinary error — but there is no formal investigation or agency involvement, we can still perform a thorough diagnostic necropsy. We will document findings carefully and stand behind our conclusions. However, these cases are not classified as forensic, and we may not collect certain types of evidence (such as trace material or toxicology samples) unless warranted based on the findings. If legal action is later pursued, we can discuss what role the report may or may not play in that context.

What if I suspect something suspicious, but no one else is involved?

This is a common situation — and it doesn’t automatically make the case “forensic”. If you’re a private owner with concerns about possible trauma, poisoning, or negligence, we can still perform a thorough diagnostic necropsy to evaluate those concerns. However, unless law enforcement, animal control, or an attorney is formally involved, the case is not considered part of a legal investigation.

You are welcome to share the findings with your veterinarian or use the report however you see fit, but it is not conducted under forensic protocols unless outside authorities are participating in the process.

Will you testify in court?

If needed, yes — but only if the case was approached and documented properly from the start. We are prepared to stand behind our reports in court, but we do not offer legal consultation or expert witness services in cases we feel fall outside the scope of legitimate forensic examination.

Are there things you won’t do in a forensic case?

Yes. We do not offer every forensic service, such as:
- Collecting trace evidence (hair, fibers, soil)
- Electrolyte analysis of vitreous fluid
- Full toxicology screening without cause
- Bullet trajectory analysis or ballistic recovery

We also do not accept cases for which law enforcement involvement is implied but not documented.

How should I proceed if I think this might be forensic?

- If you are a private owner, discuss your concerns with your veterinarian, animal control, or legal counsel. If they agree a forensic necropsy is needed, they should contact us directly.

- If you're unsure, we are happy to start with a diagnostic necropsy and advise you based on our findings. If something concerning is identified, you may then choose to involve authorities.