Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it important to donate?
The most important benefit is that blood will always be available for pets in need. If your pet were to need a transfusion, we could save their life because there is donated blood on hand. A single blood donation could save multiple lives, because the donated blood could be divided into components and used for more than one pet.

How long does it take?
The entire blood collection process takes about an hour. The process begins with a full physical exam, then about 10 minutes is spent actually collecting the blood. The rest of the time is spent giving treats and making it an enjoyable experience for the donor.

How often can my pet donate?
Dogs can safely donate every 6 weeks, cats every 8 weeks. NWVBB donors are asked to come in every 8 weeks.

What happens with the donated blood?
The whole blood collected is processed immediately. It can be separated into red blood cells and plasma. The cells are refrigerated for up to five weeks while the plasma can be frozen and is good for one year. The components are available to any clinic in Whatcom County or the Pacific Northwest. Since NWVBB is housed within a 24-hour hospital, products can be picked up at any time, day or night!

How much blood is collected?
Approximately 450mLs is collected from each dog. This is less than 2 measuring cups. From cats we collect about 50mL of blood.

Will the procedure be painful?
Blood donations are relatively painless. A collection bag exactly like those utilized for human donations is used. Blood is drawn from a small area on the neck that has prepared with a surgical scrub.

 

NORTHWEST VETERINARY BLOOD BANK 720 Virginia St Bellingham, WA. 98225
phone: 360-752-5554 fax: 360-752-5555 email: info@northwestbloodbank.com