Local clinic banking blood for dogs across the country


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SALT LAKE CITY — Advanced Veterinary Care is one of many locations for animal medicine and emergency animal medicine in the Salt Lake Valley — but it's the only canine blood bank in the state, and one of just six locations in the United States.

Currently there's a shortage of blood nationwide. That's why AVC is calling all canine owners to help fulfill a great need around the country.

Kristalynn Hall is an emergency veterinary technician for Canine Blood Heroes; she's also an overnight emergency room technician at AVC.

"Every time a dog donates, they can potentially save up to four other dogs' lives," Hall said.

While few people have even heard of K9 blood donation, Hall has a few doggy donors she sees on a regular basis. For example, a dog named Taz visits AVC every four weeks.

"It made so much sense to us," Taz's owner, Susan Turpen, said.

Fact is, dog blood is in high demand at veterinary clinics. If a dog is ill or seriously injured, a blood transfusion is often prescribed to get the animal back on its feet. Hall said the procedure is part of the daily routine in AVC's ER.

"Between the blood and the plasma, we are going through blood product all day, every day," she said.

The demand almost always outweighs the supply. Regular donors like Taz are helping, but not nearly enough.

"The actual need for blood donation is huge. We're constantly short of blood," Hall said.

The blood that's given by Taz and a handful of other doggy donors isn't just used in-state. It's shipped all over the country to help other animals in need.

"I think it's a very good cause, and I would encourage people to take a look at this," Turpen said.

To be eligible to donate blood, dogs must be between 1 and 7 years old, weigh more than 50 pounds, and be in good health. Breeds like dobermans, greyhounds, boxers and pit bulls are ideal because they a have a universal blood type.

Depending on the breed, dogs can donate every four or eight weeks. They are compensated for their time. They receive a $50 veterinary credit for each donation.

Advanced Veterinary Care, 1021 E. 3300 South, takes blood donations every Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Contact Kristalynn Hall at 435-851-9208 for questions or more information.

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