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Dogs can donate blood
Most owners never hear this. One donor saves several lives a year.
01Typical requirements · 1 point›
· Generally around 50 to 55 lb or more, depending on the program
· Usually between one and eight years old
· Up to date on vaccinations and on parasite prevention
· No history of blood transfusion themselves, and no current medication other than preventives
· Calm enough to lie still for about ten minutes without sedation — this is the real filter
· Usually between one and eight years old
· Up to date on vaccinations and on parasite prevention
· No history of blood transfusion themselves, and no current medication other than preventives
· Calm enough to lie still for about ten minutes without sedation — this is the real filter
02What donors get · 1 point›
Programs vary, but free annual bloodwork and blood typing are common, along with food, and credit toward transfusions if the donor ever needs one. Ask what the specific program offers.
03Dog blood types · 1 point›
Dogs have several blood types, and DEA 1-negative dogs are universal donors and in the highest demand. Many Greyhounds are DEA 1-negative, which is why retired racing Greyhounds are heavily recruited by blood banks.
04Where to start · 1 point›
· Ask your own vet first — many practices know the nearest program
· Veterinary teaching hospitals almost all run a donor program
· Large emergency and specialty hospitals often do too
· Commercial veterinary blood banks operate in most regions
· Veterinary teaching hospitals almost all run a donor program
· Large emergency and specialty hospitals often do too
· Commercial veterinary blood banks operate in most regions
05The honest part · 1 point›
Donation is voluntary and your dog cannot consent, so the bar should be that they tolerate it easily and without restraint or sedation. A dog who finds it stressful should not be a donor, and a good program will say so before you do.
06Everything here is free · 1 point›
Donating costs nothing and usually comes with free bloodwork. There is nothing to buy.
Rosette Dog is educational and is not veterinary advice. In an emergency, contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency animal hospital.
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