We’re all aware of the importance of blood supplies being available for humans requiring blood transfusions, but dogs also require blood transfusions too. On World Blood Donor Day, we’re looking at dogs as blood donors. Read on to learn how your dog can donate blood if you live in the UK.
Just as people have different blood types, dogs also have different blood types. For dogs it is divided between DEA 1 Negative and DEA 1 Positive. Again, as in humans, certain blood types are more difficult to obtain than others. Only 30% of dog blood donors have the Negative blood type, so donors of this blood type tend to be in high demand. Certain breeds are more likely to have this Negative blood type. These include Greyhounds, Boxers, Dobermans, Weimaraners, English Bull Terriers and German Shepherds.
Is my dog suitable to be a blood donor?
If your dog is generally fit and healthy, has never had a blood transfusion and is not taking any medication, he or she may be a suitable candidate for blood donation. Your dog needs to weigh more than a specified amount (this varies between above 15kg or above 25kg depending on the blood bank center) and be between 1 and 8 years old. It is also crucial that he or she is fully up to date with vaccinations and has never travelled overseas. If your dog meets all of these requirements there is a strong chance that he or she could be a blood donor candidate.
How can my dog donate blood?
There are two organisations in the UK that recruit canine blood donors. One is the Royal Veterinary College and the other is Pet Blood Bank UK. The latter provides a service for veterinary centres across the UK. Donors can go to various collection centres across the UK. There are even some mobile blood donation vehicles in some parts of the country. The collected blood is then processed at a site in Loughborough, which separates red blood cells from plasma. If you want your dog to be a donor you would need to register his or her details. After registering you’ll receive a pack of information and be invited to attend an appointment. Your dog will be examined by a vet and if the dog meets the required criteria he or she would then have a blood test. If everything meets the requirements your dog will then be able to donate blood. A trained phlebotomist will draw 450mL of blood from your dog. There will then be a period of recovery time during which the veterinary team will monitor the dog’s health and provide a drink and treats.
Each unit of blood donated can help save the lives of four dogs. Is your dog a potential life saver?
