As with humans, dogs sometimes require blood transfusions. We have a National Pet Blood Bank which can provide us with lots of different blood products but sometimes a transfusion directly from a donor is most appropriate for our patients. Donor lists are dogs that meet certain criteria that we know we can call on if we require an emergency transfusion.  They can provide us with products that the Pet Blood Bank cannot –such as platelets that are essential to help the blood clot.  The added benefit to our patients of having donor blood is that it is available immediately, without having to wait for it to be delivered from the blood bank.

Donor dogs need to have a relaxed, friendly temperament and be happy to sit still for a period of time.   We only ask dogs who are over 25kg in weight and between one and eight years old.  Donor dogs must never have travelled and must not be on any medication.  We also require them to be vaccinated up to date.  We perform a thorough clinical exam and run a full blood screen on all dogs prior to them donating to ensure that they are in good health. There are no costs involved when you put your pet on our blood donor list.

We clip fur from the neck and place a needle into the jugular vein to collect the blood. Most dogs happily lie comfortably on their side whilst this is being done. We collect blood into a bag that is lined with a special substance to stop it clotting.  The whole procedure only takes about ten minutes and afterwards the dogs receive the equivalent of our tea and biscuits – a bowl of water and some food!  As well as a big fuss too!

Dog blood donors really do save lives and we are incredibly grateful to our donors and their owners.  By the very nature of blood donation we often need to call on our donors at short notice.  We understand you may not always be available to bring them down but if you would be happy to be placed on our donation list we would be very appreciative.

If you think your dog might be a suitable donor, would like to discuss it further or would like to be placed on our list then please contact Helen at the surgery on 01606 880890.

We have reached that time of year again where some of our pets can show an increased level of anxiety. With Halloween and bonfire night drawing close there can be lots of bright lights, loud noises and daunting new sights for them. This of course is then closely followed by  Christmas festivities and New Years celebrations which too can be a source of anxiety to them.

Signs of anxiety or noise phobia differ between each individual and can vary from vocalisation, hiding and excessive salivation to obsessive/compulsive pacing or destructive behaviour.

There are lots of things we can do at home to try and help our pets feel less scared and we recommend that owners explore these options ahead of time. This way we can make sure that an appropriate plan is put into place for your pet in time for the perceived stressful events.

Please click on this link to learn about how you can help your pet. The information was originally written for the firework season but this general approach can be used for other noisy and anxiety inducing events as mentioned above. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us on 01606 880 890