COLUMBUS, Ohio — We know organizations like the American Red Cross have dealt with blood shortages during COVID-19, but some canine blood banks are seeing a shortage too.
Managers of the Greyhound Health Initiative Blood Bank on Riverside Drive in Dublin told 10TV they are struggling to keep up with demand right now.
"COVID has made things even busier than we could've ever imagined. There is a huge blood shortage," said manager, Mandy Albert. "We actually don't have enough donors to supply the amount of blood that we're being asked to ship out."
The organization serves not only veterinarians across central Ohio but also across the country. The blood products are then used during emergencies or illnesses. In 2019, the group said they sold 569 bags of packed red blood cells and 186 bags of plasma, potentially saving 755 dogs.
"As of right now, we have a waiting list," said manager, Courtney Kindler. "We're shipping anywhere from New York to California."
The process for canine blood donation is similar to what humans experience when they donate blood. There is a screening process ahead of time and the donation itself takes about 10-15 minutes. Managers said the dogs usually lie down while allowing a pint of blood to be drawn from their jugular vein.
Greyhounds are the best blood donors because they typically have a universal blood type, meaning their blood can go to any dog. However, any healthy dog over 50 lbs. and between the age of 1-7 is eligible to be a blood donor. The organization said there are benefits to becoming a donor, including a routine physical exam and heartworm, flea, and tick preventatives.
If you would like to learn more about the blood donor program, click here. You will need to fill out this form. You can also call 1-800-416-5156 Ext. 1 for more details.
Veterinarians looking to order from the blood bank can also call 1-800-416-5156 Ext. 1.