More Pets Donating Blood
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iStockphoto/Thinkstock(NEW YORK) — Pet owners are opting for more surgery to keep their pets alive and as a result demand is rising for dog and cat blood donors.
The University of Wisconsin Veterinary Teaching Hospital has a list of nearly 2-dozen dogs and cats who give blood on a regular basis to help meet the need.
Vets say that a pet’s temperament is critical to their ability to be a blood donor, as they have to sit through the drawing. Dogs have to lie on their side for five minutes during the process.
As with human blood donations, there are some other criteria. Dogs have to be at least a year old and weigh a minimum of 55 pounds. The donating pets cannot be on any medication, but must be up to date on their vaccinations and flea and tick protection.
And, just like people, these pets deserve a cookie after donating.
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