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Blood drive a huge success 

Pet Blood Bank UK (PBBuk), is the first of its kind to collect, process, store and supply pet blood products This unique service means that dogs across Essex and the rest of the UK will have access to blood products through their veterinary practice - providing them with vital and lifesaving treatment. The blood drive was held at Spring Lodge on Sunday February 24^th.  13 dogs successfully donated a total of 13 units of blood.  

Due to the success of the day we are holding another blood drive on the 25^th May.  If you are interested please read the following and contact either Sophie or the Pet Blood Bank direct on 01509 232222. 

A number of conditions must be met before a dog can donate. 

·         They must be between one and eight years old depending on their breed     

·         They should weigh over 25kg and be in good health    

·          Dogs must also never have travelled abroad

·          must have up to date vaccinations

·          never received a blood transfusion.

Dogs can donate up to four times a year, with the blood donation process takes about ten minutes. However, owners should plan on spending up to half an hour at a blood drive. On arrival, dogs will receive a physical examination and a health history will be taken. A small area of hair will be clipped on the dog’s neck and around 450ml of blood will be drawn (depending on weight).

After the donation, dogs are taken to the refreshment area where they will be given a drink and biscuit.The ability to carry out blood transfusions is often essential for veterinarians when they are fighting to save the life of a family pet. Like humans, dogs benefit from transfusions during surgery and to treat major traumas and disease.  

Previously, in order for a blood transfusion to take place, a donor dog had to be available when the blood was required. However, a change in legislation in October 2005 made it possible to apply for licensing to bank pet blood products. Recognising this as an opportunity to develop a national pet blood bank, Vets Now decided to support the set up of the PBBuk charity.