Lifesaving dogs needed to become blood donors in High Wycombe

Could your dog be a lifesaver? Pet Blood Bank UK is currently appealing for dogs in High Wycombe to come forward as blood donors to help save the lives of other dogs

Hamilton Specialist Referrals is one the charity’s host venues and they are looking for happy, healthy, and confident dogs to register for their donation sessions.   

Pet Blood Bank is just like the human blood service, but for dogs. They collect blood donations from donor dogs across the UK which then go towards helping to save the lives of other dogs in need. Every donation a dog gives can help to save the lives of up to four other dogs. Dogs in High Wycombe, as well as all dogs across the UK, have access to the lifesaving blood should they ever need it, so it really is a vital service.

To become a donor, your dog must weigh more than 25kg, be between the ages of 1 and 8, and be fit and healthy. It is also important that they are confident, enjoy meeting new people, and having new experiences.

The donation itself only takes 5-10 minutes, but owners should expect their dogs to be with the team for around 35-40 minutes. Dogs receive a full health check from the Pet Blood Bank vet before donating and get showered with treats, fuss, and attention throughout their appointment. They even get a goody bag and toy to take home, as well as the pride of being a lifesaver.

Like humans, dogs have different blood types and negative blood is in very high demand as this can be given to any dog in an emergency. However, with only 30% of dogs having this blood type, keeping up with supplies is challenging. Therefore, Pet Blood Bank is also calling for certain breeds to come forward, as they are more likely to have his vital blood type. These breeds include German Shepherds, Dobermanns, Flat and Curly Coated Retrievers, Greyhounds, Lurchers, Boxers, Old English Sheepdogs, and Weimaraners.

If you are interested in registering your dog to become a lifesaver or would like to book an appointment for the donation session at Hamilton Specialist Referrals on Sunday 16 November,  please visit www.petbloodbankuk.org or call 01509 232222.

Pet Blood Bank UK

Launched in 2007, Pet Blood Bank UK is the only charity that provides a blood bank service for all vets across the UK.

As part of our charitable remit, our aim is to advance animal health and welfare and to relieve suffering by providing quick and convenient access to blood.

Similar to the human blood service, pet owners kindly bring along their much loved companions to give blood at one of our many sessions across the country.

The blood is then taken to our processing centre in Loughborough where it is separated into red blood cells and plasma products, and then stored ready for dispatch.

Every unit of blood helps save up to four other lives, saving thousands of lives every year.