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Veterinary Emergency and Referral Center (VERC)

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Blood Bank

Could Your Pet be a Lifesaver?

Learn More about VERC's Volunteer Blood Donor Program

Blood Donor Registration Form

Our Current Blood Bank Donors

Blood Bank FAQ

EVERY DONATION COUNTS

Every year, thousands of dogs and cats rely on blood transfusions to survive trauma, surgery, disease, and other life-threatening emergencies. At VERC, we use life-saving blood component therapy to treat critical patients. As demand grows, so does our need for reliable and compassionate blood donors…that’s where you and your pet can make a difference.

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WAIT… PETS CAN DONATE BLOOD?

Yes! Just like people, pets have different blood types and can safely donate blood. Your pet’s donation could be the life-saving gift that allows another beloved pet to go home to their family.

We rely on donor pets to help treat:

  • Traumatic injuries (accidents, internal bleeding)

  • Surgical procedures

  • Immune-mediated diseases

  • Blood clotting disorders

  • Parasite-induced anemia

  • Cancer treatments

Donor pets are carefully screened, well cared for, and deeply appreciated, by both our team and the families they help.

Most pets experience little to no discomfort during the donation, and the process is similar to a routine veterinary visit. A small amount of blood is collected from the neck vein while your pet is lying down, often with a gentle cuddle or treat.

HOW THE BLOOD DONOR PROGRAM WORKS

Our canine and feline blood donor program welcomes healthy, happy pets who meet specific criteria. Once enrolled, your pet will be scheduled for blood donation every 6–8 weeks (or as needed), helping us maintain a consistent supply of quality blood products.

Step 2: Donate and Save Lives

Each time your pet donates, they’re helping up to 4 pets in crisis while receiving lots of pets and praise!

Step 1: Screening Appointment

If your pet qualifies based on the donor eligibility requirements below, we’ll schedule a complimentary screening that includes:

  • A full physical exam by a veterinarian

  • Blood typing and lab screening

  • Enrollment in our donor registry

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DONOR ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

  • Friendly and in good physical condition

  • Age: 1–7 years old

  • Dogs should be spayed or neutered (some exceptions may apply)

  • Not on a raw food diet

  • Dogs: at least 33 pounds (15 kg)

  • Cats: indoor only and at least 10 pounds

  • Current on vaccines

  • No history of blood transfusions

  • No history of heart murmurs or heart disease

  • Able to donate at least every 8 weeks

DONOR RESPONSIBILITIES

We’ll contact you when your pet is needed for a donation. Please plan to bring your pet in within 1–2 days of the call. Blood is sometimes needed urgently, so a prompt response is appreciated.

Fasting Required: Please fast your pet (no food) for 8–12 hours prior to drop-off. Water is fine.

DONOR BENEFITS

As a thank you for your pet’s life-saving contributions, all enrolled donors receive:

  • Free yearly physical exam and blood work

  • Blood typing

  • Infectious disease testing (like heartworm screening and tick-borne disease screening)

  • Exams prior to each donation

  • Good Karma!

JOIN THE LIFESAVING TEAM

If you’ve never heard of pets donating blood, you’re not alone! Now that you know, you can make an extraordinary difference. Your dog or cat could be the hero another family is hoping for.

Ready to learn more or schedule a screening? Complete the Blood Donor Registration Form to start the process. A Blood Donor team member will reach out to you to schedule a screening appointment.

Even if you’re not sure your pet is the right fit, you can still help by spreading the word to other pet owners who might be interested. Every share could help save a life.

Thank you for your consideration!

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