Can My Dog Be A Blood Donor?

Candidates are:

• Between the ages of 1 and 8 years old
• At least 50 pounds in weight and not obese
• In good health and have never received a blood transfusion
• Not on any medication other than heartworm or flea preventative
• Up to date on vaccinations
• Spayed or castrated
• Friendly, even-tempered, and obedient at the vet’s office
• Available for scheduled and/or emergency donations for a minimum  of 1 to 3 years.

Screening:

• Complete physical examination by your veterinarian
• Temperament assessment
• Blood Type
• Additional blood tests including Complete Blood Count and  Chemistry Profile

Donation:

• There is no preparation for donation and fasting is not required.
• Mild sedation may be required.
• A patch of fur on the neck is shaved to expose the skin over the vein.
• Donation takes about 15 to 30 minutes while recovery from sedation may require an extra 2-3 hours.
• After blood is collected, pressure is applied by hand and a bandage.
• Subcutaneous fluids are given to help replace blood volume.
• There may be some mild bruising at the site.

Rewards for Donation:

• Lots of hugs and kisses
• Pride and kudos for saving the lives of others
• Free blood type testing
• Free annual blood screening for as long as they are in the program
• Free food from Hill’s Science Diet, Iams/Eukanuba, or Purina per donation
• Free unit of blood per unit donated for your pet if they should ever need it
• Free car bumper magnet identifying your pet as a life-saving Blood Donor

Registration Forms and Agreements