Two Cocker Spaniel brothers from Darlington are full of life again thanks to lifesaving blood donations selflessly given by other dogs.
Both dogs required critical blood transfusions for different reasons over the past few years but are now back to their bouncy selves following the treatment. More dogs are needed to come forward as donors to ensure this supply of lifesaving blood continues.
In May 2021, Banter was rushed to Westway Vets in Newcastle after swallowing a sock, causing a painful intestinal blockage. Following surgery and complications including an inflammation of the lining of his stomach and low protein levels, he received a lifesaving transfusion. After nine days of intensive care, Banter fully recovered and happily returned home.
Fast forward to January 2024 and Baxter’s brother Reggie fell seriously ill with severe anaemia. Critically low on red blood cells, Reggie needed an urgent blood transfusion to survive. This crucial transfusion bought time for his immunosuppressive treatments to take effect.
After eight days of hospitalisation, Reggie stabilised and was joyfully reunited with Banter and their family. Reggie continues to be monitored and is on the road to recovery.
‘We just want to say thank you for the critical work you do’, Banter and Reggie’s owner, Barney, said. ‘The important service Pet Blood Bank provides has helped to save the lives of both of our dogs, and for that we will always be grateful.’
There are many different situations where dogs need emergency intervention, some because of illness, and others because of unfortunate accidents (like swallowing a sock). In many of these cases, blood can be the difference between life and death for dogs.
Pet Blood Bank is a charity that operates across the UK, running donation sessions and dispatching blood to vets around the clock to ensure pets have access to vital blood.
If your dog, or a dog you know, is between 1 and 8 years old, over 25kg, fit, healthy, and is confident and enjoys meeting new people, they could become a lifesaver and help to save the lives of dogs like Banter and Reggie.
If you are interested in registering your dog to become a lifesaver or would like to book an appointment for an upcoming donation session, please visit www.petbloodbankuk.org or call 01509 232222.
Pet Blood Bank is particularly looking for dogs for the following sessions nearby:
- Westways Vets in Consett on Sunday 7 July
- Westways Vets in Corbridge on Sunday 7 July
- Westways Vets in Fenham on Saturday 20 July
- Vets4Pets Washington on Sunday 4 August
- Copeland Vet Surgeon in Stockton-on-Tees on Sunday 11 August
