The Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital runs a doggy blood bank, and its supply is low. Here's how you and your pooch can help!
Just like humans, pets who suffer from traumatic injuries, or other medical conditions, need blood transfusions. The Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital blood bank is the only 24-hour veterinary blood bank in the Denver area, and it provides life-saving products to animal hospitals across the country. Your dog will go through routine blood work and physical exams that you should be getting done regularly. So why not save money and lives at the same time?
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All blood donations are performed by the hospital's certified veterinary technicians and typically last 10-20 minutes, but can take up to an hour due to the preparation and recovery process.
A small square is shaved on the dog's neck and scrubbed clean. Then, with the dog laying on its side, one unit of blood is drawn. Throughout the entire process, you can guarantee that your furry friend is being comforted by staff and as relaxed as possible. After the donation, the dog will receive a complimentary nail trim, plenty of treats, and a meal before being sent home to rest.
Canine blood donors must abide by the following qualifications (taken directly from the hospital's website):
- Weigh over 55 pounds
- Be between one and six years old
- Have a friendly disposition
- Be in good health
- Be current on vaccinations
- All medications (except for heartworm prevention) must be approved by the blood bank veterinarian
- Never have received a blood transfusion
