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SALT LAKE CITY — Utah is about to receive its first blood bank for dogs in Salt Lake City.
During an emergency, many animals need blood transplants. Until now, veterinary clinics in Utah have had a limited supply of canine blood and had to order from out of state. However, Canine Blood Heroes is planning to provide a local animal blood bank.
"Other companies order from California or Michigan, but being able to have it in the state of Utah we will be able to have it right when we need it, immediately," said animal hospital administrator Anne Cordts.
Veterinarians said that the blood bank will be a huge relief for them and help improve animal treatment in Utah.
"I can't tell you how many times were desperate, in the middle of the night or at an odd time without," said Jeffery Simmons, DVM. "So it was very helpful to know that they are going to be here."
Once the bank is underway, owners will be able to bring in their dogs to donate blood. Canines will undergo a careful screening to figure out their blood type, and if they are healthy and the right size, they will be able to donate.
"Dogs have blood types just like humans," Cordts said. "We have A, B, O and various other ones. So do dogs."
Canine Blood Heroes is mainly looking for dogs who are universal donors, often breeds such as sight hounds, greyhounds, pit bulls and boxers.
To help get the blood bank started, Canine Blood Heroes will give a $50 credit for veterinary services for any dog who donates.
