Screening eligibility criteria in canine whole blood transfusion

Abstract

Whole blood contains all the elements that are necessary for oxygen delivery and hemostasis, in nearly physiologic ratios and concentrations. Transfusion therapy is a major resource that can improve the patient's capability to overcome the underlying disease. As veterinary critical care becomes more frequently used, the advantages of a basic knowledge of transfusion therapy and blood banking increased. The most cogent argument supporting component therapy is that blood is a precious resource considering its therapeutic potential and the logistics and costs required in obtaining and delivering blood products. The objective of this article is to discuss and offer current knowledge on blood transfusion and its allied practices in dogs including blood donor screening, blood typing, storing blood and crossmatching tests. The article discuses new developments, standard practices and protocols for conventional blood product collection in a private veterinary clinic.