WHY DOES YOUR PET MATTER?
Your pet could help save another animal's life. Blood donations give veterinarians a way to treat animals facing serious medical emergencies, but many pet owners don't know that their dogs and cats can become donors too.
When Do Animals Need Blood?
Severe blood loss can become life-threatening.
Animals may need blood transfusions for several reasons:
- Accidents and injuries: Serious bleeding can cause an animal to lose a dangerous amount of blood.
- Anemia: Certain illnesses can destroy red blood cells or prevent the body from producing enough of them.
- Blood-clotting disorders: Some diseases and poisonings interfere with the body's ability to stop bleeding.
Why is blood so important?
Blood transfusions can provide:
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Red blood cells
Carry oxygen throughout the body.
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Whole blood
Provides several blood components, including red blood cells and plasma.
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Plasma
Contains proteins that help blood clot.
Losing 30–40% of blood volume can require blood products.
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, animals experiencing this level of blood loss generally require resuscitation, often including blood products.
Sources: Merck Veterinary Manual – Initial Triage and Resuscitation · Washington State University – Blood Bank
Why Does Taiwan Need More Donors?
Taiwan's Progress in Pet Blood Donation
Taiwan has also been developing its animal blood donation services. In 2016, veterinary students and a faculty member from National Pingtung University of Science and Technology received training from UC Davis and later established a blood bank and community-based canine donor program modeled after UC Davis.
However, finding suitable blood donors remains a challenge. Animals have different blood types, and veterinarians must check compatibility before transfusions.
According to Doolb Animal Blood Bank Taiwan, monthly blood transfusion demand exceeds 50 dogs and 50 cats.
More potential donors can help make blood available to animals when they need it.
Sources: Taipei City Veterinary Medical Association · Taiwan Today – First Veterinary Blood Bank Launched in Taiwan · UC Davis – VMTH Heartbeat, July/August 2016
Your Pet Could Make a Difference
Your pet does not need to be a hero to help another animal. By learning about blood donation and understanding the requirements, you can find out whether your pet could become a donor.
One donation could give another family more time with their beloved pet.
Learn more about pet blood donation and how your pet may be able to help through Doolb Animal Blood Bank Taiwan.
20 PINTS = APPROXIMATELY 36 LIVES
Every Donation Can Save a Life
Meet Superstar, a dog at the UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital who became the first donor to give 20 pints of blood since its blood bank opened in 2008.
His donations were estimated to have helped save approximately 36 dogs.
One donor can make a difference in more lives than you might expect.