The Procedure

As there are no natural occurring antibodies in canine blood, there is no need to cross match on the first transfusion.  This means of course in case of a sever emergency blood can be used straight away.  However having said that, if a second transfusion is needed then the blood must be cross matched to avoid risk of anaphylactic shock.  A blood transfusion is needed when there has been acute loss of blood for whatever reason.

The donor dog must be at least 25kg (55lbs) in weight, more than 12 months but less that 7 years old and in good health, fully vaccinated and regularly wormed and without any history of having received a transfusion, also free from medications.  Your dog will previously have had several tests done on him/her to make sure all is well, donors are NEVER put at risk.  For more information please speak with your own veterinarian, they'll be delighted to take you through the whole procedure.

Collecting blood from a donor, is simple, quick and involves a lot of fuss and treats at the end!  All the donor has to do is remain still whilst the blood is being collected, it's not uncomfortable at all and no one wants the experience to be stressful, however if it looks like a dog is becoming agitated then the vet will administer a light sedative to minimise any upset to dog or owner.

The blood is taken from the jugular vein in the dog's neck, no restraint is needed and because the vein s so large the blood can be collected very quickly.