Hero Dogs: Why Should You Consider Donating Your Dogs Blood?

​Every year, around 6.8 million people in the United States donate blood to help those in need. While the need for human blood is well-known, many pet owners have no idea that dog blood is also in high-demand by veterinary professionals. In fact, many dog owners are shocked to know that donating their dog’s blood is even a possibility.

​Why is Blood Donation Important?

​Blood transfusions are live-saving procedures. The blood that your dog donates can be used to save the lives of other dogs. Dogs often need blood transfusions after surgery or trauma, such as being hit by a car. These transfusions can save dogs of all breeds, ages, and genders. Donor dogs help save the lives of other dogs with their contribution to blood banks around the country.

​How Does Dog Blood Donation Work?

Pet owners are often concerned about the canine blood donation process—and for a good reason! No pet owner wants to subject their pet to something that is painful or stressful. However, the procedure for blood donation is very simple.
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Most dogs are put under a mild sedative, which keeps them sit and calm during the donation process. Dogs with long fur will need to have a small patch of fur shaved off to allow for a clean insertion of the needle. The rest of the process works a lot like it does for humans. The whole ordeal usually only takes between 30 and 60 minutes.

Dogs can donate blood as frequently as every three weeks, but most programs will only ask for donations five or six times a year. Some places will also ask that pet owners are willing to bring their pet in on short notice when a patient is in need of a blood transfusion. This is often dependent on whether the blood is being donated at an emergency hospital or a donation center.

​Is My Dog Eligible to Donate Blood?

Much like human blood donation, there are certain requirements that dogs must meet before they are allowed to donate blood. Dogs are expected to be between one and six years old and in good health. Typically, dogs are required to be spayed or neutered. All eligible blood donors will need to be up-to-date on vaccinations and preventatives for heartworm, fleas, and ticks. Required vaccinations include rabies, Bordatella, and DA2PP. Only dogs that weigh more than 50 pounds are eligible for blood donation.
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There is also a donor screening process that makes sure that your pet doesn’t carry any disease that could be passed along through their blood. Dogs that are eligible to give blood must never have tested positive for any of the following blood-borne diseases:

• Anaplasma
• Babesia
• Bartonella
• Ehrlichia
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

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Dogs are not eligible to donate blood if they have ever received a blood transfusion. Certain breeds are also ineligible for blood donations due to issues with blood storage or genetic conditions. Temperament screenings may also be required before a blood donation is accepted.