Canine blood donors

Could your dog be a lifesaver?

Our appeal to find canine blood donors has brought many ideal candidates through our doors and helped immensely with the collection of blood for needy cases. 

We would like to add to our register of local canines so if you think you may have a dog who fits the criteria and you can spare a couple of hours every three months please, please read on.

We hope to host blood drives four times a year. The charity Pet Blood Bank UK will send their team to us here at the surgery, collect the vital supplies and process and store the donations, each of which can help up to four animals in need.

What are the criteria?

Your dog must be:

• Over 25 kg.
• Between 1 and 8 years old.
• Fully vaccinated.
• In good health and not on certain medications.

They must not have travelled outside the UK and most not have had a transfusion themselves.

It is vital that your dog has a good temperament and will be happy to comply with the procedure - we don’t want to cause stress to any dog that may already be nervous.

What will happen on the day?

• Your dog will have a health check and a blood test prior to the donation.
• They will also have a microchip implanted (if they don’t already have one). This is to identify the animal and the donation on the Pet Blood Bank records and will be done free of charge.
• During the actual blood taking you are encouraged to stay with your pet (if you would like to).
• Most dogs are comfortable and happy whilst this procedure is carried out but if, for any reason, they become stressed - we will stop - the dog’s welfare and comfort are paramount!
• After the donation your pet will be checked over, given a meal and a goody bag. There’s also a bandana to show off at the park and a special toy.
• The whole procedure will take no longer than an hour and the whole atmosphere of the session is very friendly and relaxed.

How can you help?

If you think you have a dog who fits the criteria and you would like to find out more, call our nurses on 01189 57 4488 or email admin@castle-vets.demon.co.uk

Even if it’s not straight away, or you have a younger dog - please bear us in mind - it’s for a great cause! More information from the Pet Blood Bank is available at www.petbloodbankuk.org or join them on Facebook!