Pet Blood Bank UK
Monday, 10th September 2012 at 09:50 AM
Pet Blood Bank UK is the first and only charity of its kind that provides a canine blood bank service, helping to save the lives of many loyal companions across the UK.
For all dog owners who give blood themselves, and recognise its importance for helping save the lives of others, the same applies for our canine friends.
C Dunbar, owner of a dog who received blood from Pet Blood Bank UK comments:
“My beloved Whippet, Corrie, took very suddenly and seriously ill. He needed a blood transfusion straightaway. Without Pet Blood Bank UK, we would have had to beg local people to put forward their dogs to the vets as donors, and hope for a match. I don’t think Corrie would have survived the wait.”
We have on average three collection sessions a week, seeing up to 22 doggy donors at any one session. The donor will not only receive a full health check but also receive a goody bag containing “I’m a lifesaver!” bandana and toy of their choice.
It doesn’t take long either - on average 40 minutes, of which 10 will be for the actual donation itself. During this time, the donor is encouraged to lie down and relax with their owner by their side.
J Sanderson, owner of two long standing doggy donor Dobermans comments:
“The whole process involving the collection of the blood is very easy and the team are very good, putting both the owner and donor at ease. If the donor isn’t comfortable, then they don’t go ahead.”
Dobermans are typically of a negative blood type breed, and with levels of this blood type low, owners of negative blood donors are being called for (but not exclusively). Other typical negative blood type breeds include Greyhounds, Boxers, German Shepherds, Flat Coated Retrievers, Airedale Terriers Weimaraners, Lurchers, American Bulldogs, Pointer (English), English Bull Terriers and Mastiffs (various breeds).
There’s also a criteria for donation. Donors need to be fit and healthy, and meet the following:
· Have a good temperament
· Aged between 1 – 8 years old
· Weigh more than 25 kilos
· Be up-to-date with vaccinations
· Not traveled outside of the UK and Eire
· Not on any medication
If you think your dog meets the above criteria, or know of one who does, please register for your nearest session at www.petbloodbankuk.org or call us on 01509 232222.
