Preston’s Lanes Vets is looking for life-saving donor dogs

Lanes Vets in Preston is one of Pet Blood Bank UK 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 as every unit of blood can help to save the lives of up to four other dogs.

How can your dog become a donor?

To become a donor, your dog must weigh more than 25kg, be between the ages of one and eight, 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 five to 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, particularly during the pandemic. 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 Lanes Vets, please visit www.petbloodbankuk.org or call 01509 232222.

When was Pet Blood Bank established and what all does it do?

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

As part of its charitable remit, the 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 the processing centre in Loughborough where it is separated into red blood cells and plasma products, and then stored ready for dispatch.

Can any dog breed give blood?

To be a dog donor the criteria is:

Fit and healthy.

Happy, confident, and enjoys meeting new people.

Between one and eight years.

Weigh more than 25kg.

Have a good temperament.

Have never travelled outside of the UK and Ireland.

Not on any medication.

For more information CLICK HERE.