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Sometimes, critically ill pets need blood transfusions, just like people do.
In the emergency hospital, a blood transfusion could save the life of a dog or cat in a critical condition. These pets may have suffered trauma, have significant hookworm burdens, have accidentally eaten rat bait, experienced a snake bite, or have other serious medical conditions.
Here, we’d like to introduce you to some members of our blood donation program. Each of these pets has earned their place on our Wall of Heroes by making a life saving blood donation. These are healthy, vaccinated pets who belong to some of the most generous and kind humans in Cairns.
Below, you can read about how these dogs and their owners help us save the most critically ill patients.
Unfortunately, not many people know about pet blood donation. This means it can be difficult for us to finding eligible blood donors in times of need.
Is your dog or cat eligible to donate blood?
At the bottom of this page, there is a quick questionnaire to help you figure out if your pet is eligible to enter our blood donation program. Please consider this important chance to help us save pets in need.
Ollie is a gorgeous golden retriever who is fully vaccinated and up to date on his flea, tick, and worm prevention. He came in with his owner Mike to donate blood in June 2023. Once her blood tests confirmed she was in good health, she was given a light sedation and lots of cuddles while she donated 400mL of whole blood. Her donation was received by a 9-week-old puppy who was critically ill with a hookworm infestation. Well done, Ollie, you saved a life! Welcome to our Wall of Heroes.
This handsome face belongs to an energetic fellow called Nash, who also happens to belong to our Nurse Manager. He is a regular blood donor at Emergency Vets 24/7 and he doesn’t mind the attention. So far, Nash has donated blood to save a young Fox Terrier who ate rat bait, and a Collie cross who lost a lot of blood in a car accident. Nash, you’re a Hero and so is your Mum!
Meet Pepsi, a beautful, gentle girl who joined our Wall of Heroes in 2024. As part of the donor registration process, we ran blood tests to make sure she was free from heartworm and that her haematology and biochemistry levels were normal (they were). Pepsi then had a mild sedative and blood was collected into a sterile bag while she enjoyed the attention of our nursing team. We are so proud of you, Pepsi! Your donation saved a spaniel with a life threatening immune condition. Welcome to our wall of heroes.
Blood donation is a life saving process.
If your dog is eligible to give blood, we will ask you to join our list of donors. There is no time commitment and there are no availability requirements.
When we have a critically ill patient who needs a transfusion, we will call members on the donor list to see who is available. This is because we don’t store large volumes of blood onsite – in most cases, fresh blood provides better treatment outcomes.
Unfortunately, not every dog is suitable to be a donor, and our screening process is designed to protect the health of all donors and recipients.
If you are interested in the program, please fill out the form below and we will be in touch with you soon.
We really appreciate you giving your time and offering your pet’s support.
Many thanks from the Critical Care team, and our future patients.
© Emergency Vets 24/7 2026