World record breaking blood donor dog Sharwood receives top award

VETERINARY charity Pet Blood Bank UK has announced the winners of its Heart of Pet Blood Bank Awards. The awards honour both people and lifesaving donor dogs in the community for their outstanding support over the past year. Sue Mitchell received the Pioneering Award, which recognises individuals who drive innovation and growth within the charity, while her dog Sharwood was honoured with the Bramble Craddock Award, Pet Blood Bank’s highest honour for a dog that has made an extraordinary contribution. Sharwood has donated an incredible 43 times, more than any other dog in the charity’s history. These donations have helped save the lives of up to 172 other dogs and earned him a place in the Guinness World Records as the dog who has given blood the most times.

Sue Mitchell and Sharwood with their awards

Jools Brammer and her devoted dog Maverick were recognised with the Real Award, celebrating their exceptional dedication to helping save canine lives. Jools played a vital role in setting up a new donation venue at Eden Vets in Shavington, Cheshire, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for both donors and their owners. Maverick is also a donor himself and having donated blood 12 times, has helped to save the lives of up to 48 other dogs. Lastly, volunteer Nick Fountain has been named the recipient of the Caring Award. Nick has been a loyal and active volunteer with Pet Blood Bank for many years, giving thousands of hours of his time and energy to support donation sessions. He has attended more than 200 sessions, always ensuring that every dog and their owner feel welcome, relaxed, and cared for throughout the process. Richard Fairman, Chief Executive of CVS Group, which sponsored the awards, said: “Pet Blood Bank is a vital charity doing crucial work within our profession, so supporting these awards was very important to us. “Without the tireless work of the people, practices and dogs who volunteer their time and who donate blood – our profession would not be able to perform the range of life-changing and lifesaving veterinary services that we do. We are so pleased that these awards recognise these important individuals.”