Blood donor appeal: give the gift of life this Christmas

PET Blood Bank UK has issued an urgent appeal for dogs across the country to donate blood as supplies drop to critically low levels.

The charity needs to collect 800 units before Christmas to ensure no dog is left without lifesaving blood this winter.

With the colder and busier period of the year settling in, Pet Blood Bank has seen a sharp drop in appointments and an 18% fall in new donor registrations.

Tilly the Labrador is among those who have given blood

At the same time, demand for blood continues to rise, pushing supplies to their lowest level this year.

The charity is running donation sessions across the country and more donors are needed to come forward. Every donation can help save the lives of up to four other dogs.

Pet Blood Bank is just like the human blood service, but for dogs. Donations collected from generous donor dogs across the UK go directly to treating other dogs facing emergencies such as severe illness, accidents, and life-threatening injuries.

Pet Blood Bank always aims to keep blood in stock for emergencies, but this is running out at a critical time. With families gearing up for the festive season, a single donation could be the gift that keeps a family together this Christmas.

To become a donor, dogs must be over 25kg, aged between one and eight years and be fit, healthy, confident, and enjoy meeting new people

The donation itself only takes five to ten minutes, but owners should expect their dogs to be with the team for around 35-40 minutes.

Dogs receive a full health check from the Pet Blood Bank vet before donating and get showered with treats, fuss, and attention throughout their appointment. They even get a goody bag and toy to take home.

To register your dog, visit www.petbloodbankuk.org  or call 01509 232222.