BLOOD TYPING YOUR DOG

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THE CANINE BLOOD DRIVES

The demand for blood transfusions in companion animals has risen dramatically. Specialties such as emergency medicine and surgery have demanded increased knowledge and usage of veterinary blood transfusion medicine. These blood transfusions mean the difference in saving the life of an anemic animal or a bleeding patient.

WHAT IS BLOOD?

Blood is comprised of a liquid portion, plasma, and a cellular portion containing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. These cells are made in the bone marrow and are then released into circulation into the plasma. The plasma acts as the carrier of the cells and important proteins such as clotting factors and albumin.

WHAT IS A BLOOD TRANSFUSION?

A blood transfusion, like in humans, is a simple form of transplantation. Blood containing oxygen-carrying red cells, clotting proteins and platelets is transfused from donor to patient to temporarily correct a deficiency or dysfunctions.

Dogs have eight different blood groups, however, only one type (DEA 1.1) appears to be important regarding compatibility when transfusing a dog. The blood type DEA 1.1 negative is considered universal and dogs with this blood type may donate blood for transfusions. The donor and the recipient of blood products must be blood typed and/or crossmatched to ensure compatible transfusions and to avoid adverse transfusion reactions. We, at Hickory Veterinary Hospital, encourage all pet owners to blood type their dog earlier on. It is merely a two-minute test performed in our hospital that will verify your dog’s blood type. If your dog is ever in a life threatening condition, knowing your pet’s blood type can save valuable time.

CRITERIA TO BEING A CANINE BLOOD DONOR

Healthy dogs between the ages of one and ten years that are a minimum of fifty pounds can be potential donors. These volunteers must be in good health, current on vaccines, not in estrus, and presently not on any medication other than heartworm preventative. Screening for transmissible diseases as well as blood type is necessary. Prior to donation, your dog will be blood typed and if determined to be a universal donor (Blood type DEA 1.1 negative) your dog will be accepted into the donor program. Specific disease screening for tick titers, and heartworm, complimented by a complete hemogram and biochemical screen will be performed by our staff at no additional charge to you.

If you are interested in getting your animal blood typed and/or want to know more about the canine blood drives, please speak with our knowledgeable staff. We will gladly discuss the program with you.

Hickory Veterinary Hospital © 2005