Canine Blood Donors Can Help Save Pets Lives

Giving blood helps save lives, but that doesn't just pertain to humans.

The demand for animal blood transfusions has seen a dramatic increase with all the advancements in veterinary specialty services. If a dog needs emergency surgery or has a bleeding disorder, blood from canine donors is essential in saving pet's lives. 

"Dogs and cats need the blood products just like humans do," said Jessica Balogh, spokeswoman with the Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center in Ohio Township.

The Pittsburgh-based Animal Care and Assistance Fund (ACAF) is seeking more canine volunteers to participate in their upcoming Blood Bank for Animals. Blood screenings are planned from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 20. Potential canine donors must undergo a screening before they are eligible to donate blood.

"It doesn’t take very long to get screened," Balogh said.

Balogh said the process is simple and takes about five to 10 minutes. A little blood is taken and tested, and if results are satisfactory, a donation is scheduled. Blood work results are also faxed to the pet's primary veterinarian at no cost to the donor.

New donor screenings are typically held twice each year, one in February and in October. Blood donations are by appointment every other Saturday throughout the year.

Dogs that donate are called "Blood Donor Heroes." ACAF will only accept blood from volunteer donors, believing that the quality of life of one animal should not be enhanced at the expense of another. With an existing national shortage, donors will assist in helping the number of veterinary blood banks working to keep up with demand.

Only blood screenings will take place at this event to ensure dogs are viable donors. As a Halloween twist, dogs in costume will receive prizes.

No appointments are necessary, but pet owners are asked to reserve a spot by calling or emailing Jessica Balogh, 412-348-2588 or jbalogh@pvs-ec.com, to get a head count. Click on the PDF attached to this article for more information.

If you participate:

What: "Canine Blood Drive"

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 20

Where: Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center, 807 Camp Horne Road, (Ohio Township) Pittsburgh.

Who: Non-profit Animal Care and Assistance Fund's Blood Bank for Animals is presenting the Canine Blood Drive.

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