We Are The Cure Blog | Canine Cancer Information

With the growing need of blood transfusion among dogs, blood banks are steadily increasing. Earlier, owners were not fully aware of the necessity of blood donation, but with a spurt in canine diseases, they are slowly taking stock of the situation. A number of blood bank programs are also being initiated to support the need to supply life saving blood components. But now, the most pertinent question here is who is a prospective donor? Also, do you know what are the precautions one must take before taking his/her pet to a donation camp?

Only a healthy vaccinated dog is eligible for blood donation. However, before the donation process gets underway the dog has to undergo a comprehensive physical examination, including a complete blood count and blood chemistry profile. He would be tested for other possible conditions like Brucellosis, Rocky Mountain, Spotted Fever, Lyme Disease, and several other ailments. A dog who has received blood transfusion earlier is not eligible for donation. A potential donor also cannot be under any medication and should be protected against heartworm diseases.

There are basically 2 types of programs —  “Full Pints Program” and also “Half-Pints Program”. To be able to qualify for the full-pint program, a dog must be at least 1 year old and weigh 50 pounds or more. But for half-pint programs, donors must be at least 1 year old and weigh 35 pounds or more. The potential donor must be a nice, easy going dog with a universal blood group.

The process of blood donation, however, is rather simple. The donor is placed on an elevated platform and blood is extracted from a large vein from the neck. It is not carried out under anesthesia and takes about half an hour. After the process is accomplished the dog is treated to a nutritious meal and given water.