Pets needed to become blood donors in city.
Could your dog be a lifesaver? That’s the question being asked by a pet blood bank charity which is appealing for more animal donors to come forward.
Pet Blood Bank UK wants dogs in Milton Keynes to be put forward as blood donors as they look to save more pet lives.
Milton Keynes Vet Group, with local branches including Stony Stratford and Walnut Tree, is one of the charity’s host venues. 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,” said a spokesperson for the charity. “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. Dogs in Milton Keynes, as well as all dogs across the UK, have access to the lifesaving blood should they ever need it, so it really is a vital service.”
To become a donor, the dog must weigh more than 25kg, be between the ages of 1 and 8, and be fit and healthy. It is also important that they are confident, enjoy meeting new people, and having new experiences.
The donation itself takes 5 to 10 minutes, but owners should expect their dogs to be with the team for around 35 to 40 minutes. Dogs receive a full health check from the Pet Blood Bank vet before donating and get treats, fuss, and attention throughout their appointment. They even get a goody bag and toy to take home.
Just like people, dogs have different blood types – positive or negative. Only 30% of dogs eligible to donate in the UK have the negative blood type. Demand for this blood type is also very high because it can be given to any dog in an emergency.
Pet Blood Bank is also calling for certain breeds to come forward, as they are more likely to have his vital blood type. They include German Shepherds, Dobermanns, Flat and Curly Coated Retrievers, Greyhounds, Lurchers, Boxers, Old English Sheepdogs, and Weimaraners.
To register a dog or book an appointment for a donation session at Milton Keynes Vet Group visit: www.petbloodbankuk.org or call 01509 232222.
