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GOLD COAST ANIMAL BLOOD BANK

Help Save Lives! Join Your Local Blood Donor Program

Every day, dogs and cats across Australia need life-saving blood transfusions. Whether it’s due to trauma, surgery, illness, or a bleeding disorder, a timely transfusion can mean the difference between life and death.

At Veterinary Specialist Services (VSS), we treat a wide range of critical patients, and we rely on the incredible generosity of donor pets and their owners to keep our blood supply available when it’s needed most.

Why Blood Banks Matter in Veterinary Care

Brisbane and Gold Coast hospitals use blood for a wide range of emergencies, injuries and conditions.

Just like in human medicine, veterinary blood banks play a vital role in emergency and specialist care. They ensure we have access to safe, screened, and compatible blood products for patients in need.

VSS partners with the Gold Coast Animal Blood Bank (GCABB) to help maintain this essential service. But to keep blood on the shelves, we need regular donors, and that’s where you and your pet can help.

Could Your Pet Be a Hero?

Becoming a blood donor is one of the most impactful ways your pet can help save the lives of others. One single donation can help up to three animals.

Canine Donor Criteria

Between 1-7 years old
Healthy and fully vaccinated
Over 25kg
Calm and friendly temperament
Not on any long-term medications
Not previously received a blood transfusion

Feline Donor Criteria

Between 1-7 years old
Healthy and fully vaccinated
Indoor-only cats preferred
Over 4.5kg
Calm and relaxed during vet visits
No prior blood transfusions

All pets are screened thoroughly for health and suitability before joining the program.

What to Expect: The Donation Process

We understand that pet owners may have questions or concerns, and we’re here to help.

Is it safe for my pet?

Yes. Blood donation is a safe, routine procedure and most pets recover quickly. Dogs can donate approximately every 3 months, and cats every 3-6 months.

Is it painful?

The process is similar to humans giving blood. A small patch of fur is clipped, and the blood is drawn from a vein. It usually takes less than 15 minutes.

What happens after the donation?

Your pet receives lots of cuddles, a tasty treat, and a health check. Some blood banks also offer small thank-you gifts or perks.

How is my pet looked after?

Donor pets are monitored closely by trained professionals, and always treated with the same care and respect we give all our patients.

Blood Types in Pets

Just like people, dogs and cats have different blood types which is why screening and matching is so important.

Dogs have several blood groups, but DEA 1.1 is the most significant. Some dogs are “universal donors” (DEA 1.1 negative), which means their blood can help a wider range of patients.
Cats have three main blood types: A, B, and AB. Type A is most common, but a mismatch can lead to serious complications, so testing is always required before transfusion.

How to Register Your Pet as a Donor

If your dog or cat meets the criteria and you’d like to register them to help, we encourage you to connect with the team at:

Gold Coast Animal Blood Bank (GCABB)
They manage the full donor program, including health checks, screening, and donation appointments.

You’ll find more information about the process, FAQs, and how to apply directly on their website.

Thank You for Considering This Lifesaving Gift

Donor pets are true heroes. By registering your pet to become a blood donor, you're giving other animals a second chance at life and becoming part of a compassionate community of veterinary lifesavers.

Have questions? You're always welcome to contact our team at VSS or speak with GCABB directly. We're here to support you every step of the way.

GOLD COAST ANIMAL BLOOD BANK

Help Save Lives! Join Your Local Blood Donor Program

Why Blood Banks Matter in Veterinary Care