Animal Emergency Clinic
Blood Donor Program
Your healthy pet can be a lifesaver. Our blood donor program provides critical resources for pets in emergency situations.
Why Blood Donation Matters
Just like in human medicine, blood transfusions can be lifesaving for pets. Dogs and cats may need transfusions due to:
- Trauma and blood loss from accidents
- Surgery complications
- Immune-mediated diseases
- Rodenticide poisoning
- Certain cancers
- Clotting disorders
Having blood products available can mean the difference between life and death for pets in crisis.
Dog Donor Requirements
- 1-7 years old
- Over 50 pounds
- Healthy with no history of serious illness
- Current on vaccinations
- Not on any medications (except heartworm prevention)
- Good temperament for handling
- Never received a blood transfusion
- No history of pregnancy (for female dogs)
Cat Donor Requirements
- 1-7 years old
- Over 10 pounds
- Indoor only
- Healthy with no history of serious illness
- Current on vaccinations
- Negative for FeLV and FIV
- Not on any medications
- Calm temperament
The Donation Process
Blood donation is safe and well-tolerated by most pets:
- Quick physical exam and screening bloodwork
- Blood typing (first donation)
- Collection takes about 10-15 minutes
- Dogs donate about 450ml; cats about 50ml
- Most pets can donate every 8-10 weeks
Dogs usually don't need sedation. Cats may receive light sedation for their comfort.
Donor Benefits
- Free comprehensive blood testing at each donation
- Free blood typing
- Priority access to blood products if ever needed
- The satisfaction of saving pets' lives
- Special recognition as a donor hero
How to Enroll
Interested in enrolling your pet as a blood donor? Contact us to schedule a screening appointment.
Call: (309) 828-7722
We'll evaluate your pet to ensure they're a good candidate and answer any questions you have about the program.