When we take our pet to the vet for any ailment, in the case of needing surgery, the center will need to have blood as in a normal hospital, how do they get it in these cases? Although it turns out to be a truism, they basically get it the same as for humans, from blood donors . Yes, our pets can also be donors. Cristina Fragío , coordinator of the blood bank of the veterinary center of the Complutense University of Madrid, explained to Muy Interesante how this process works.
In the first place, it should be noted that dogs and cats also have different blood groups , so the compatibility between donor and recipient is checked as in humans. In dogs, the most common blood groups are: DEA-1.1., DEA-1.2., DEA-3, DEA-4, DEA-5, DEA-7 (DEA stands for Dog Erythrocyte Antigen). In cats it is simpler, the groups of these felines are A, B and AB; being the AB the least common.
The biggest difference between them and us lies in the body’s reaction to a different blood group. Dogs have the least problems in these cases, with few exceptions. The risks are low, but after the first transfusion they increase, so afterwards it will be necessary to inject compatible plasma. With cats it is very different , the risk of suffering lethal reactions is very high because these felines, like humans, have antigens that react naturally to a different blood type. With less than 1 ml of incompatible transfusion, the outcome of the animal can be fatal.
Are there blood banks for all pets? Dr. Fragío explains that unfortunately no , only the plasma of dogs and cats is stored because they are the most common domestic animals in Spain. In the event that blood is needed for other animals such as a horse or a ferret for example, it indicates that the usual protocol is to quickly locate a donor and extract the blood on the spot.
Can any dog or cat be a donor? If you meet the requirements, yes. It is a completely altruistic and very necessary action that can save the lives of our most faithful companions. In addition, it does not involve risks . As with humans, donors must be in good physical condition and weigh at least 20 kilos for dogs and 3 kilos for cats . For all those owners who are interested in contributing their bit in animal welfare, they just have to go to their regular veterinarian and there they will inform you of the procedures that you must carry out with your pet.
