Blood Donors
The greyhounds here at Kamas Cave have been giving blood for the last few months. Here is some information on how and why it is important:-
Why is it important to donate?
Healthy dogs are needed to give blood for the many pets that need a blood transfusion. A single donation can be used to help save the lives of two other dogs, because the blood is separated into two components - Red Blood Cells and Plasma (which can be frozen and kept longer). The different components are given to patients suffering from anemia, major injuries or diseases etc.
How long does it take?
The greyhounds don't need any sedation or anaesthetic, the blood collection process takes approximately 10 - 20 minutes, depending on how quickly they bleed! The jugular vein in the greyhounds neck is used as it is large and easily accessible - causing as less stress to the dog as possible.
Requirements for becoming a blood donor:
- Dogs or bitches must be aged between 1 and 8 years
- Must weigh 25kg or over
- Have no history of serious illness
- Not be on any medication
- Have no external/internal parasites e.g. fleas or worms
- No bitches in season
- Must not be recovering from any major operation
How much blood is taken and how often?
500mls is taken from each dog. Healthy dogs can be bled every 3 - 4 months, immediately after donating their body starts to replace the blood taken.
WHY GREYHOUNDS?
Greyhounds make great donors for a variety of reasons.
- They are gentle, patient dogs who are used to being handled regularly.
- They have very thin skin, making the insertion of the needle easier.
- They have a high packed cell volume, meaning more Red Cells.
- They bleed reasonably quickly.
- They have no congenital blood disorders.
We have an arrangement with Medivet Veterinary Group, who have been coming to Kamas Cave since March 2004 to take the blood needed to help lots of other dogs in desperate need of a blood transfusion.
Well done to all the dogs that have given blood so far!
Puppy Joe (twice), Elana, Midge (twice), Betty (twice), Charlie, Bingo (twice), Tigger (twice), Tina, PJ (twice), Pearl, Blue, Peanut, Jim, Missy, Bruce and Lou (twice).
