To be eligible for blood donation, dogs must meet specific criteria to ensure the safety of both donors and recipients. It is advisable to consult with your veterinarian for a comprehensive understanding of these criteria.
The following are the typical criteria:
The dog blood donation process typically involves several essential steps for a safe and successful donation. The process is designed to be safe, stress-free, and prioritises the well-being of the donor dog. This plays a significant role in helping other dogs receive life-saving blood transfusions when required. It is advisable to consult with your veterinarian for a comprehensive understanding of these criteria. The following are the typical steps:
Donor dogs go through an eligibility screening to ensure they meet specific criteria.
Comprehensive health examination performed by a veterinarian. A small blood sample is collected for pre-donation test, including blood typing, cross-matching, complete blood count, biochemistry profile, and infectious disease screening.
Any abnormalities detected result in usually a complimentary consultation, with further testing or treatment costs the responsibility of the donor.
Donor dogs may undergo mild sedation to facilitate blood collection from the jugular vein. Some dogs with calm temperaments may donate blood without sedation.
During this step, a small area of fur is shaved from the neck, and the skin is meticulously cleaned. Up to 450 ml of blood is collected from the donor dog.
After the donation, donor dogs are closely monitored, allowed time to rest, and may receive intravenous fluids (IV) for a smooth recovery.
Many blood banks provide comfort and rewards to donor dogs, such as treats and affection, to ensure a positive experience.
Healthy dogs can donate blood every 3 months, up to 4 times a year, ensuring a stable blood supply for other dogs in need.
