It seems obvious now, but I’d never thought about dogs giving blood or the fact that dogs need blood, and whether there’s even such a thing as a dog blood donor program.
Turns out there is! Dogs need access to blood supply during emergencies and surgeries just as much as humans do.
This is a quick video that outlines what the process is like and what the donor requirements are (at one vet centre in Minnesota). Watch it here
Having done a bit of my own research, it appears that the process and requirements are pretty similar everywhere. You can read more at the centre’s website.
Lastly, you can look up <blood donation for dogs + your area> and you’re likely to get a lengthy list of results!
Would your dog be well-suited to this type of program? Has your dog ever needed access to blood in an emergency?
I was quite surprised to learn that dogs have more blood types than humans!
Yes, that was interesting to me too!