Meet the doggy lifesavers helping fellow pets in Manchester

Dogs need blood donors too just like their human owners - here is how your pet could help.
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This National Dog Day, Pet Blood Bank UK is appealing for dogs in Greater Manchester to come forward as blood donors to help save the lives of other poorly pets.

National Dog Day (Thursday 26 August) is a whole day dedicated to celebrating our furry friends in the best ways possible. Nicole Osbourne from the charity told us how vital blood donation is for dogs, just like it is for us humans.

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The charity collects blood donations from donor dogs across the UK which then go towards helping to save the lives of other dogs in need. Every donation a dog gives can help to save the lives of up to four other dogs. Dogs in Greater Manchester as well as all dogs across the UK, have access to the lifesaving blood should they ever need it, so it really is a vital service.

To become a donor, your dog must weigh more than 25kg, be between the ages of one and eight, and be fit and healthy. It is also important that they are confident, enjoy meeting new people, and having new experiences as the dogs will go into their donation appointment alone while owners wait outside in order to minimise risk during the pandemic.

The donation itself only takes 5-10 minutes, but owners should expect their dogs to be with the team for around 35-40 minutes. Dogs receive a full health check from the Pet Blood Bank vet before donating.

Pet Blood Bank is just like the human blood service, but for dogs. While some owners may feel apprehensive, Nicole says not to worry as their canine companions are showered with treats, fuss and attention.

There are several clinics in Greater Manchester: see here for more details.