Canine Animal Blood Bank
NAIT’s Animal Health Clinic serves as a satellite collection site for the Canadian Animal Blood Bank, a not-for-profit that saves the lives of dogs by supplying blood to vet clinics to help treat animals undergoing surgery, suffering from illness or injury or in need of emergency care. Every month, NAIT holds two canine blood donor clinics. As the blood bank is consistently short of canine blood, we are always looking for new dog donors to join our cause. Each donation has the potential to save the lives of three dogs in need!
It's in them to give: register your dog as a blood donor
To qualify, your dog needs to be healthy and over 55 pounds. If your dog meets this criteria, we encourage you to register your dog as a donor. Prior to donating, new donors are required to have their registration form completed by their vet.
Hands-on learning
Students in NAIT’s Animal Health Technology and Veterinary Medical Assistant programs train at NAIT’s Animal Health Clinic under direct supervision, gaining valuable hands-on experience to prepare them for successful careers.
Why donate?
There are mulitple benefits to becoming a donor including:
- One complimentary blood product for each unit of blood donated, should the need ever arise (The cost of one unit of blood at a veterinary hospital or clinic costs between $250 and $400)
- Free microchip identification
- Bandana and blood donor tag
- Milestone dog tags every 5 donations
- Complimentary testing for blood-borne diseases and heartworm. Any abnormal results will be forwarded to your veterinarian
- Every unit of blood that is collected can make a difference in the lives of 3 dogs and their families across Canada
Frequently asked questions
What are the requirements to donate blood?
- Healthy and even-tempered
- Weighs 25 kg (55lbs) or more
- Between 1 and 8 years of age
- Up-to-date with vaccinations/titres
- On heartworm and tick preventative medication (recommended)
How long does it take to donate blood?
The donation itself takes only 3 to 4 minutes and the entire appointment lasts about 30 minutes.
Does my dog need to be sedated?
Dogs do not need to be sedated to donate.
Can I accompany my pet?
Absolutely - in fact, we encourage it! We want you to be a part of the whole process.
How often do you host blood drives?
Blood drives occur 2 times a month (with the exception of the summer months), typically on Saturday and either Tuesday or Wednesday. In June and August we host 1 Saturday clinic. We are closed in July.
Can I volunteer to help out at the clinic?
Although we appreciate the offer, volunteers are not needed at the clinic.
Where do I park and do I have to pay?
There is parking available behind the Animal Health Clinic (X100) across from the Activities Centre (S building). Look for the Canadian Animal Blood Bank parking sign.
Parking is free. We want to make sure your whole visit to the blood bank is enjoyable and stress free.
For more information related specifically to donating blood, please refer to the Canadian Animal Blood Bank’s FAQs.
In partnership with the Canadian Animal Blood Bank
