Blood Bank Services for Pets in Chattanooga, TN

Blood donations are crucial for animals requiring emergency medical treatment, such as those undergoing surgery, experiencing trauma, or dealing with illnesses like anemia or cancer. Donated blood helps save lives and supports the overall health and recovery of pets in veterinary clinics and animal hospitals.

• Dogs: Healthy dogs aged 1 to 8 years, weighing at least 50 pounds, are easy to work with, up to date on vaccinations, and currently on flea & tick prevention are generally eligible to donate. However, some dogs may be excluded based on health conditions, vaccination status, weight, and age.
• Cats: Healthy, indoor-only adult cats aged 1 to 8 years, weighing at least 10 pounds, and up to date on vaccinations are typically eligible.

Note: Pets with previous blood transfusions are not eligible.

Dogs and cats can donate blood approximately every 4 to 8 weeks. At VCSG, we typically allow a 6-week interval between donations.

Blood donation is a safe procedure with minimal risks, performed by a trained technician. As with any medical procedure, there is a slight chance of complications, such as mild bruising or temporary fatigue. Most pets recover quickly after donating.

The donated blood is processed into various components, including red blood cells, plasma, and platelets. These components are then used to treat different medical conditions based on the needs of the recipient animal.

While the primary benefit is helping other animals in need, pets also receive a health check-up before donating to ensure they are healthy and free from disease. Additionally, we have a donor reward system that includes treats, toys, and praise for their heroic efforts.

• Dogs and Cats: Ensure your pet is well-rested and healthy before the donation.
• Pre-donation Exam: A quick health check by a veterinarian will confirm if your pet is fit for donation.

After donating, pets may feel a bit tired or lethargic for a few hours. However, they usually recover quickly. Be sure to offer them plenty of water and allow them to rest for the remainder of the day.

We ask that you consider committing to our program for at least one year. During this time, we conduct yearly blood work to ensure your pet's health is maintained. We aim to build a strong, trusting relationship with our donors, as their ongoing participation is vital to helping other animals in need.

You cannot donate blood on behalf of your pet, but you can bring your pet to a donation center or clinic where they can donate their own blood.

Donated blood is processed and stored in a blood bank under controlled conditions. It is typically refrigerated and used within a few weeks, depending on the blood component. Plasma can be frozen and stored for extended periods.

No, blood donation is species-specific. Dogs can only donate to other dogs, and cats can only donate to other cats. Blood transfusions require compatibility between species for optimal results.

Certain dog or cat breeds may be disqualified based on their size, health conditions, or other factors. For instance, pets with certain heart conditions may not be eligible. Consult with your veterinarian or the blood bank for more details.