It's a dog's life when they all become blood hounds

Jan 19 2009 by Kim Carmichael, The Journal

ALSATIONS, terriers and mongrels all became blood hounds yesterday.

The dogs were giving blood to a scheme that makes lifesaving animal blood transfusions possible.

Operated by the Pet Blood Bank UK (PBBuk) charity, blood is collected from volunteer canine donors and supplied to vets across the country, ensuring that there is always blood available if other pets need it.

In order to collect the vital blood, a drive was yesterday held at Blythman & Partners Veterinary Practice in Gosforth, Newcastle.

Jenny Walton, veterinary supervisor for PBBuk, said: “We now hold regular dog blood donation sessions across the region. However, this is the first time we’ve been at this surgery.

“It is a lovely thing for the dogs to do as they are potentially saving the life of another dog.”

“The dogs tend to come back again and again with their tails wagging,” added Jenny. “They know what the job is and they enjoy the attention.”

After the donation, all blood is taken to the PBBuk laboratory in Loughborough and made available to vets across the country.

The scheme was made possible by a change in the law on pet blood in October 2005, before which storage had been illegal.

PBBuk is always on the look-out for more donors and owners who think that their dog might be suitable can discuss it with their vet or contact the charity directly on 0844 800 9925 or visit www.petbloodbankuk.org.

Donor dogs must have a good temperament, be aged between one and eight-years-old, weigh more than 25 kilos, should not have travelled abroad and should be fit and healthy with up-to-date vaccinations.