Blood Donor Program
Dogs like humans, sometimes need life-saving blood and plasma transfusions. Blood products are a precious resource that have a relatively short shelf life (30 days for whole blood) therefore we need regular canine blood donors to maintain our blood bank to help those animals that are recovering from surgery, serious illness or poisoning and need emergency blood transfusions.
The Blood Donation Process:
Prior to each donation your dog will receive a health check and blood test with the blood bank team to ensure your dog is able to donate. The donation process itself only takes 5 minutes and you can be there with your pet providing cuddles and encouragement while this happens.
Will my dog feel unwell after donating?
No. At JCU Vet we want our donors to be as relaxed as possible so we use Fear Free donation techniques and the owner is able to stay with the donor during the donation to give them cuddles and tell them how brave they are.
Why do pets need blood transfusions?
Many of our patients need life-saving blood transfusions for a variety of reasons including:
- Severe trauma,
- Blood clotting (coagulation) disorders that can occur as a result of poisonings (such as Rat Bait) or Snake Bite,
- Immune mediated disorders that can destroy both the red blood cells, platelets or clotting factors.
At JCU Vet Hospital, we have blood on hand at all times to provide this life saving therapy for our patients because sometimes minutes are the difference between life and death.
Could your dog have what it takes to be a Blood Donor?
Blood Donor Heroes are:
- A healthy, large breed dog over 25kg
- Between 1-6 years of age
- Up to date with vaccinations, heartworm prevention, flea and tick prevention, and worming
- Have a calm, trusting temperament
- Be available to perform blood donations every 3 – 4 months
- Be capable of lying calmly for 5-10minutes while the blood donation is performed
- Loves treats, cuddles and LOTS of praise!
In return for their life-saving donation, our Blood Donors receive:
- Yearly Full Blood Analysis
- Blood typing
- Annual vaccinations
- Parasite prevention
- The best tasting bowl of roast chicken after the donation
- Even more treats, cuddles and praise 😊
If you think that your dog is capable of being a JCU Vet Blood Donor Hero and saving the lives of other beloved local pets in need or if you know someone (or dog!) who could, please complete the application form below or phone: 47 813 600
And one of our Blood Donor Team will be in contact with you shortly to arrange a meet and greet session!