Blood donation can be a lifesaving act for pets in need, and preparing your furry friend for the process can help make the experience smoother for both of you. Here’s a guide on what to expect and how to get ready for your pet’s blood donation.
1. Check Eligibility
Before you schedule a donation, ensure your pet meets the eligibility criteria:
- Age: Most blood donors should be between 1 and 8 years old.
- Weight: Dogs need to weigh at least 50 pounds; cats usually need to be at least 8 pounds.
- Health Status: Your pet should be in good health, up-to-date on vaccinations, and free from any chronic diseases.
Brave Unity Blood Bank For Animals’ online questionnaire will help field some information on your pet’s history beforehand.
2. Schedule an Appointment
ContactBrave Unity Blood Bank For Animalsto schedule an appointment for the initial exam and blood work. A member of our team will correspond with you to determine an ideal date and time to come to our hospital.
3. Prepare Your Pet
a. Keep Them Calm:
Prior to the appointment, spend some time relaxing with your pet. A calm environment can help reduce anxiety. Talk to our staff about seeing if using a prescribed sedative beforehand may be beneficial.
b. Exercise:
Give your pet a good walk or play session earlier in the day before the appointment to help burn off excess energy. A tired pet is often a calmer pet. This is especially important as most pets are pretty sleepy after their donation and may not want to do their normal exercise routine.
c. Fasting:
Consult with the blood bank or your veterinarian about fasting. Some facilities recommend that pets fast for a few hours before donating, while others do not. Follow their specific guidelines.
4. What to Bring
Make sure to bring the following items to your appointment:
- ID: Ensure your pet has proper identification, such as a microchip or collar tag.
- Medical Records: Bring any relevant medical history or vaccination records if you have not already sent them to our team. This will help the staff assess your pet’s eligibility and be more informed about your pet’s background.
- Comfort Items: Bring your pet’s favorite toy or blanket to help them feel more secure during the visit.
5. During the Donation Process
a. Arrival:
Arrive a little early to allow your pet to acclimate to the new environment. This can help reduce stress. A member of our front desk will inform the team of your arrival while everything is prepped behind the scenes.
b. Initial Check-Up:
One of our Lenity veterinarians will perform a health check, including a physical examination and blood teststo ensure your pet is a good candidate for donation. If anything concerning comes up, our doctor will discuss the results with you and any next steps recommended.
c. The Donation:
Once cleared, your pet will be laid on a comfortable surface, posed in a safe position and a trained technician will insert a needle into a vein to collect blood. This process typically takes about 10-15 minutes. If your pet is a little anxious or wiggly, our veterinarian may suggest using a light sedative to make the process easier.
6. Post-Donation Care
After the donation:
- Good boy (or girl)!: Reward your pet with treats and affection after the donation to create a positive association. We have treats at the hospital but it’s always a good idea to carry some with you to give after praise-worthy moments. Please make sure our team is informed of any food allergies your pet may have.
- Nap time: Allow your pet to rest for the remainder of the day. Limit their activity to prevent any fatigue. They may feel a little sleepier than normal – this is completely normal and to be expected. Helping to save lives is hard work!
- The essentials: Ensure they have access to fresh water and provide a light meal afterward, unless otherwise directed by the veterinarian.
7. Monitor for Side Effects
While most pets handle blood donation well, watch for any unusual behaviors after the donation. If you notice extreme lethargy, vomiting, or unusual bleeding, give us a call immediately at (650) 513-6660 or bring them back into our emergency department.
8. Bragging rights!
Encourage other pet owners to consider donating! Share your experience on social media or talk to friends and family about the importance of animal blood donation. Not every animal has the ability to help save other lives – this is a HUGE accomplishment and you should be proud! Your pet will be given a Brave Unity Blood Bank For Animals bandana to show off their newest accomplishment. Take a picture and send it to us!
With proper guidance and preparation, you can make the blood donation process easier and more enjoyable for both of you. By following these steps, you can help ensure that your pet is ready to contribute to Brave Unity Blood Bank For Animals’ lifesaving cause. Your furry friend’s generosity could make a huge difference in the lives of other animals in need!
