Canine Blood Donor Program
The London Veterinary Emergency Clinic operates it's very own canine blood donor program.
In cases of emergency when pets are needed to be given blood transfusions, the clinic has an ample supply
of blood and blood products thanks to multiple local canines (and their wonderful owners) who participate
in the program.
Canine Blood Donor Candidate:
1. Healthy and good tempered.
2. Weight greater than 25kg (good body condition).
3. Between 1-8 years of age.
4. Up to date on vaccinations.
5. Current on heart worm prevention.
6. Must test Negative for infectious diseases .
7. Be Dea 1.1 Negative (universal donor) Blood type.
Benefits to your pet being a blood donor:
1. Yearly Exam and Vaccinations provided.
2. Yearly wellness testing (CBC and pre-anesthetic panel).
3. Annual Heart worm test (Snap 4Dx).
4. Heart worm preventative medication provided.
FAQ's about canine blood donors.
Can Your Dog Donate Blood?
All of our life-saving donors are loved family pets who are volunteered by their owners. If your pet meets a certain criteria they, too, can become part of the program.
Healthy & even-tempered.
Between 1-6 years of age.
Has CURRENT vaccinations.
Weighs greater than 25kg (approx. 50 lbs) but has a healthy body score. (For more information on body score, consult your family veterinary clinic.)
Is on Heartworm prevention.
Is negative for infectious diseases. (Additional testing is ran through the London Veterinary Emergency Clinic, compliments of the program if your pet meets the necessary above requirements.)
How can a Blood Donation Help Save Another Pet?
Support for injuries sustained from car accidents.
Treating anemia (a blood disorder).
Treating Rat Poison ingestion (results in severe blood loss).
Major surgical cases that require blood transfusions due to large amounts of blood loss.
Treating for Parvovirus (a common virus unvaccinated puppies can contract).
And much more!
Do Dogs Have Blood Types?
Dogs, like humans, have blood groups & can be typed. Testing is required prior to initial donation. The Universal Blood Type is (A-) & is necessary upon becoming a donor. This allows the blood to be given to many more patients in need. One donation can benefit up to 4 patients!
How is the Blood Obtained?
Blood can be collected in unsedated dogs if they are co-operative, which is often the case when a dog has a good, easy-going temperment. Blood is taken with a standard human blood collection bag. A large accessible vein is required and this is located in the neck. The area is cleaned and aseptically prepped before the needle is inserted (much like human blood donation). After donation, a light bandage is placed on the neck. An area of swelling or bruising may be seen afterward & will fade over a few days, again, similar to that of when blood is drawn from people.
How Often Can Dogs Donate Blood?
Dogs can safely give blood as often as every 4 weeks. Although this is usually not asked of an individual dog
"Echo" A. (1998-2011)
Echo was a wonderful greyhound, companion and dedicated blood donor at the London Veterinary Emergency Clinic for many years. Each and every one of our canine donors is a
huge asset to the London & surrounding area's pet community. Echo's numerous blood donation's helped many sick/critical pets in their time of need (and their owners as well).
Our hearts and grattitude go out to him and to his owners.
If you own/know a dog that qualifies for participating in the blood donor program, please contact The London Veterinary Emergency Clinic.
Phone: (519) 432-7341
Fax: (519) 432-0298
E-mail: manager@londonvec.com
