Blood Bank Available at VMTH
The Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital used to purchase blood from an outside source. But to avoid shortages during pet emergencies, the hospital recently implemented an in-house blood donation program.
In-house blood donors are carefully screened before they are accepted into the program. Participants in the program receive benefits in exchange for the blood units provided. For example, each cat or dog admitted to the program receives routine vaccinations, Iams or Hill’s pet food, and a complimentary teeth cleaning once a year. Also, animals can earn financial credit toward VMTH services. Cats can give blood every 6 weeks. Once they reach 7-8 visits, they earn credit toward VMTH expenses. Dogs can give blood every 4 weeks, and earn VMTH credits with their 10th and 11th donation.
Currently there is a waiting list to become a blood donor. The VMTH stores canine red blood cells for 35 days and feline red blood cells for 28 days. Plasma can be stored for 5 years. On occasion, blood units are sold to other veterinary medical practices at client cost.
To learn more about the program, contact Pam or Kristen, the veterinary technicians who coordinate the blood donor program (608/263-7600).