Dog and Cat Blood Donations

Each year, thousands of pets’ lives are saved through blood transfusions. At VSH, blood component therapy is commonly-used for traumatic injuries, parasitic and immune-related disease, for surgical procedures, and many other life-threatening problems. As our patient load grows, our need for quality blood products grows as well.

How You and Your Pet Can Help

Our Blood Donor Program collects dog and cat blood donations from healthy pets. If you are interested in participating in this life-saving program and your pet meets the requirements, we will set up a screening appointment during which your cat or dog will be given a physical exam by one of our critical care specialists. A small amount of blood will be drawn by our Blood Donor Program staff for laboratory screening and typing.

Donor Responsibilities

Every 6-8 weeks (or as needed) your pet will be called upon to donate blood. Please bring your pet in within 1-2 days of the call as we are generally in immediate need of blood.

*Donors must be able to commit to a full year.

Donor Compensation

Donors will be compensated at the time of each donation and will receive:

• An initial examination with a critical care specialist along with screening lab work

• Examinations prior to each donation and yearly complimentary bloodwork

As well as a choice between:

• (1) complimentary specialty exam a year through any service when your pet is enrolled as a blood donor.

• $50 credit at VSH

• 3 months of flea and tick preventative

Drop-off Notes

We ask that you fast your pet for at least 8 – 12 hours prior to drop-off on the day of your pet’s blood donation.

You may continue to provide free access to water, but please do not provide food on the morning of the donation.