Blood Transfusions

At Punta Gorda Animal Hospital, we can provide life-saving blood transfusions to dogs and cats to treat symptoms of anemia caused by disease, surgery, toxicity, or trauma.

The goal of blood transfusion is to treat symptoms caused by anemia by replacing red blood cells so that proper oxygenation of organs can occur. Blood transfusions are most often used in acute situations such as acute hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells) or blood loss, but can also be used for chronic conditions such as immune-mediated hemolytic anemia or chronic kidney disease.

Blood transfusions are administered by a veterinarian and do not require anesthesia. At Punta Gorda Animal Hospital, the patient will be screened before the transfusion and cross-matched with the donor blood to determine compatibility. This is especially important in cats and dogs that have had prior blood transfusions. The patient is monitored closely in case of adverse reactions by our veterinary nurses throughout the four hours of transfusion. Once the transfusion is completed our staff will check the patient’s vital signs and perform blood tests to monitor the resolution of the anemia.

Donor Pets

At our veterinary hospital, we are proud to offer a canine blood donation program that helps save the lives of pets in need. Just like humans, dogs sometimes require blood transfusions due to surgeries, injuries, or illnesses. Our program relies on the generosity of healthy, friendly dogs who meet specific criteria to become blood donors. Each donation can make a significant difference, providing critical support to dogs undergoing emergency treatments or complex medical procedures.

Our dedicated team ensures that the donation process is safe and comfortable for your pet, and we are grateful for the lifesaving contributions of our canine heroes. If you are interested in learning more about our blood donation program or think your dog might be a good candidate, please contact us for more information. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of many pets.

If interested in determining if your pet could be a blood donor please reach out to us at (941) 639-8717.