Dog Blood Donors Give Generously In Herts And Beds

It’s official - Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire are bursting with compassionate dog lovers! A blood donation session, organised by Pet Blood Bank (PBB), the UK’s canine blood donation charity, and to be hosted by Davies Vet Specialists (DVS) at Higham Gobion on the Hertfordshire/Bedfordshire borders on 18 June, has been booked up in double-quick time. The organisers are now considering creating additional sessions beyond the normal quarterly programme, in order to cater for the all the willing hairy heroes. The donation sessions are a bid to replenish blood supplies and help save the lives of other dogs across the UK. Woody, a six-year-old Labrador Retriever, from Luton in Bedfordshire, is already a canine life-saver. Originally on course to be a guide dog for the blind, unfortunately Woody couldn’t cope with the intensive training he needed. His original puppy walker Pauline Rae, who had looked after him from the age of six weeks to 11 months, was offered him back as a pet and he’s now a happy house dog who also gives blood regularly. Each of Woody’s donations helps to save the lives of up to four dogs. Pauline Rae explains: “I started puppy walking because I wanted to help give blind people freedom. Although I was over the moon to have Woody back I also felt guilty that he couldn’t do job he was intended for but then thought if he can’t be guide dog maybe he can help other dogs by giving blood. He wasn’t at all worried when I took him to the first session. In fact he loved all the attention!” In order to give blood, fit and healthy dogs need to meet the following criteria:

• have a good temperament
• be aged between one and eight years old
• weigh more than 25 kilos
• have not travelled outside of the UK
• be up-to-date with all vaccinations

The blood donation session at DVS on 18 June is now full. The next sessions will be held on 10 September and 3 December 2011. Please help to save a dog’s life by attending. Call 01509 232 222 to register your dog or visit www.petbloodbankuk.org

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